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Human Error:
Human error refers to actions or decisions made by individuals that lead to unintended consequences or
failure to achieve the desired outcome. It can be further classified into different types:
a) Skill-based errors: These errors occur when an individual fail to perform a task correctly due to a lack
of skill or proficiency. This can include slips, lapses, or mistakes in routine tasks.
b) Decision errors: Decision errors occur when individuals make incorrect judgments or fail to consider
all relevant information when making decisions. This can include errors in risk assessment, problem-
solving, or judgment.
c) Perceptual errors: Perceptual errors occur when individuals misinterpret or fail to perceive
information accurately. This can include misreading gauges, misinterpreting signals, or failing to notice
critical cues.
2. Cognitive Biases:
Cognitive biases are systematic patterns of deviation from rationality in judgment and decision-making.
They can influence how individuals perceive and interpret information, leading to errors in judgment
and decision-making. Some common cognitive biases that may contribute towards accidents include:
a) Confirmation bias: Confirmation bias is the tendency to search for, interpret, favor, and recall
information in a way that confirms one's preexisting beliefs or hypotheses while ignoring contradictory
evidence.
b) Availability bias: Availability bias is the tendency to rely on readily available information or examples
that come to mind easily when making judgments or decisions, rather than considering a broader range
of information.
3. Personal Factors:
Personal factors refer to individual characteristics or traits that may contribute towards accidents. These
factors can include:
a) Fatigue: Fatigue can impair an individual's cognitive and physical abilities, leading to decreased
alertness, slower reaction times, and impaired decision-making.
b) Stress: High levels of stress can negatively impact an individual's ability to concentrate, make
decisions, and respond effectively in critical situations.
c) Lack of training or experience: Insufficient training or lack of experience can result in individuals
lacking the necessary skills and knowledge to perform tasks safely and effectively.