Analysing workplace safety policies in Hong Kong with a simulation method
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
International Economic Journal
Publication Date
6-1-2005
Volume
19
Issue
2
First Page
321
Last Page
353
Keywords
Compensating differentials, workplace safety, computable equilibrium model
Abstract
Despite its impressive economic performance and high per-capita income, Hong Kong's workplace safety record lags behind leading industrial countries. This paper develops a computable equilibrium model of workplace safety in Hong Kong that predicts the changes in safety levels after substantial policy modifications. We find that accident rates would fall if workers' compensation insurance was more experience-rated or if fines for violations of the safety codes were raised. We also find that a progressive injury tax aimed at accident-prone firms would sharply lower the accident rate. In contrast, large increases in workers' compensation benefits have only a minor effect on the safety level.
DOI
10.1080/10168730500080493
Print ISSN
10168737
E-ISSN
1743517X
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2005 Routledge
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Wei, X., Russell, S., & Sandy, R. (2005). Analysing workplace safety policies in Hong Kong with a simulation method. International Economic Journal, 19(2), 321-353. doi: 10.1080/10168730500080493