The control of human error requires two (2) different approaches

The control of human error requires two (2) different approaches.  First, it is necessary to MINIMIZE THE OCCURRENCE of errors, and the second is to REDUCE THE CONSEQUENCES of the remaining errors by

1. Ensuring high levels of staff competence;
   1. designing controls to match human characteristics;
   2. providing proper checklists, procedures, manuals, maps, charts, SOPs, etc.
   3. Reducing noise, vibration, temperature extremes, and other stressful conditions.
   4. Training programs aimed at increasing the cooperation and communication between crew members will REDUCE THE NUMBER of errors.  Eliminating ALL human errors is an impossible goal since errors are a normal part of human behavior.
2. The second avenue to control human error is to REDUCE THE CONSEQUENCES of the remaining errors by cross-monitoring and crew cooperation.
   1. Equipment design that makes errors reversible and equipment that monitors or complements and supports human performance also contribute to limiting errors or their consequences.

Source: Human factors for engineers, The Institution of Engineering and Technology, 2004