Human error analysis : review of past accidents and implications for improving robustness of system design

Moura, R. and Beer, M. and Patelli, E. and Lewis, J. and Knoll, F.; (2014) Human error analysis : review of past accidents and implications for improving robustness of system design. In: Safety and Reliability. Safety and Reliability: Methodology and Applications - Proceedings of the European Safety and Reliability Conference, ESREL 2014 . CRC Press/Balkema, POL, pp. 1037-1046. ISBN 9781138026810

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Abstract

Since the establishment of the high-technology industry and industrial systems, developments of new materials and fabrication techniques, associated with cutting-edge structural and engineering assessments, are contributing to more reliable and consistent systems, thus reducing the likelihood of losses. However, recent accidents are acknowledged to be linked to human factors which led to catastrophic consequences. Therefore, the understanding of human behavioural characteristics interlaced with the actual technology aspects and organisational context is of paramount importance for the safety & reliability field. This study first approaches this multidisciplinary problem by classifying and reviewing 200 major accident data from insurance companies and regulatory authorities under the Cognitive Reliability and Error Analysis framework. Then, specific attention is dedicated to discuss the implications for improving robustness of system design and tackling the surrounding factors and tendencies that could lead to the manifestation of human errors.

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