Module 06

Human Factors

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Human Factors?
Human factors refer to environmental, organisational and job factors, and human and individual characteristics which influence behaviour at work in a way that can affect health and safety

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Why Tackle Human Factors?

Technical improvements (Hardware)

Process and procedural safety (Software) Human factors

1970s

1980s

1990s

2000s

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Three Spheres of Influence

ORGANISATION Culture,leadership,
Resources, Work patterns,
Communications..

INDIVIDUAL Competence, Skills

Personality, Attitudes
Risk Perception..

JOB Task, Workload

Environment
Display and Controls
Procedures..

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

The Individual

Attitudes and Behaviours Motivation Perception Also issues re :

Mental or physical capabilities

Training etc

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Maslows hierarchy of needs

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Perception

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Perception

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

The Organisation
The culture is defined as: the product of individual or group values, attitudes and competencies and patterns of behaviour, that determine the commitment to and style and proficiency of an organisations health and safety programmes.

Competence

Control Co-operation Communication

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

The Job
Safe systems of work Ergonomics The extent of decision making
a balance between stimulation and stress

Procedures and instructions The working environment

maintained to a standard and monitored

Work patterns
CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

6 Steps to Commitment
Committed Involved Compliant
Creates and modifies the rules or systems to achieve the goal. Does what can be done within the existing system. Sees the benefits. Does what is expected, but no more. Does not see benefits. Does what is expected to keep job. Probably makes reluctance known Fails to see the benefits. Will not do what is expected. No opinion or interest

Reluctant
Non-compliant Apathetic
CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Human Failure
Active failures Latent failures

Immediate consequences eg drivers, control room staff

Poor design Lack of training Lack of supervision Uncertainty on roles and responsibility

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Major Incidents Three Mile Island Clapham Junction Challenger Space Shuttle Piper Alpha

CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Human Failures
Slips Skill based Lapses Errors Rules Mistakes

Human Failures
Routine Violations Situational Exceptional
CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1

Knowledge

Discipline

How to promote safe behaviour

responsibilities and accountability

Reward Inform
reasoning and understanding
changing perceptions

Facilitate
make safe behaviour easy
CHSS 2003 Ref: SC/086/V1