Participative risk policy? Risk regulation of silicosis in coal mining in West Germany and Great Britain

• Applicant: Dr. Lars Bluma
• Subject Area: History of Science ; Modern and Contemporary History
• Term: from 2016 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 322685540

The research project explores the risk policy of the West German welfare state using the example of the anti-silicosis campaign in the coal mining industry between 1949 and the 1970s. Firstly the science-based risk regulation instruments and techniques developed in the German coal mining industry, primarily by the miners trade association as accident insurance for miners, are explored. In particular, the phenomenon of so-called scientification of the modern social security system is addressed. These questions are then expanded by an examination of how social relations in West German society were reflected in silicosis risk regulation following the Second World War or how the scientification and socialisation processes impinged upon each other. Particular consideration is given to the extent to which the various stakeholders were able to participate in the formulation and implementation of regulations on silicosis risk policy in the coal mining industry in the Ruhr Valley. The results for the Ruhr mining will be compared with the fight of the silicosis in the British coal mining industry.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants