Based on publications and on a study of a case, the present article discusses traditional analyses of work accidents, focusing on timber exploitation industry, an activity that has been registering increasing mortality rates all over the world. Two techniques were employed: document research and field observation. The documents analyzed were available from the Parliamentary Investigation Commission. The workers observed for this study were divided into teams to cut down trees for a timber company. Their work method was studied by means of direct observation. In the technical reports consulted for the research, causality analyses were led primarily by the unsafe act ideology. However, field observations evidenced external determinants of occupational risks. Final analyses were able to identify methods of protecting against risks implemented by the workers themselves. Results indicate some limitations to traditional analyses that do not take into consideration the performance of tasks within risk zones, leading to biased ideas regarding workers' unsafe behavior.
occupational accidents; unsafe act; timber exploitation; worker's health
