Although it may be possible to accept that errors are neither as numerous nor as varied as they might first appear, the idea of a predictable error is a much harder one to swallow. If errors were indeed predictable, we would surely take steps to avoid them. Yet they still occur. So what is a…...
Variable and Constant Errors (Dr. James Reason) Read More »
Assigning probability values to errors is still very much an art form. Nonetheless, there is sufficient general agreement about the likelihood of errors occurring in various generic tasks to put them into sensible rank order. Their main use is to provide benchmarks for the range of error probabilities over different jobs.Here is a list of…...
Error Probabilities (Reason Model) Read More »
Unsafe acts are of two (2) distinct types: Errors and Violations Errors arise from informational problems and fall into three categories:… Membership Required You must be a member to access this content.View Membership LevelsAlready a member? Log in here...
Active Failures (Unsafe acts) Read More »
When we were children, adults frequently told us to stop and think—good advice, but they rarely told us what to think about. I have sought to overcome this omission with the ‘three-bucket’ model described below. This model forms the basis of the mental skills designed to impart error wisdom and risk awareness. The buckets correspond…...
The Three-Bucket Model for assessing risky situations (Reason) Read More »
The probability that the total system will perform correctly when it is available is the probability that the hardware/ software will perform correctly, times the probability that the operating environment will not degrade the system operation, and times the probability that the user will perform correctly. By defining the total system this way, human performance…...
Total System Performance Approach to Human Factors (FAA) Read More »
One of the best examples of Human Factors Engineering is seen daily when driving… street signs. We all know a STOP sign when we see one. It may be the most recognized sign in all advanced societies. Did you know that at least 35 countries use a red octagon as their stop sign? But imagine…...
Human Factors 101 – Street Signs Read More »
The skill-based performance involves highly practiced, primarily physical actions in very familiar situations in which there is little conscious monitoring. Such actions are usually executed from memory without significant conscious thought or attention. Behavior is governed by preprogrammed instructions developed by either training or experience and is less dependent upon external conditions. Information that can…...
Human Errors (“Honest Mistakes”) Read More »
Human nature encompasses all the physical, biological, social, mental, and emotional characteristics that define human tendencies, abilities, and limitations. One of the innate characteristics of human nature is imprecision. Unlike a precise machine—each time, every time—people are imprecise, especially in certain situations. For instance, humans tend to perform poorly under high stress and time pressure…....
Human are faliable creatures – expect no more! Read More »
Here are the five principles of Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) explained: People make mistakes Blame fixes nothing Context drives behavior Learning is vital Response matters… Membership Required You must be a member to access this content.View Membership LevelsAlready a member? Log in here...
The five (5) principles of Human and Organizational Performance (HOP VIDEO w/ Conklin) Read More »
I think most SAFTENG members will be able to pick up on several keywords and phrases and understand the significance of this type of case and the impact it will have “culturally” on the entire nursing profession. These are not safety or risk professionals in this video, but you will find their concerns the same…...
Active and Latent Failures front and center in this medical error case (Video) Read More »
I will reserve my comments so as not to influence your position. But watch the video, and then in the comments, let me know which school of thought you subscribe to: (1) the cognitive psychological school, or (2) the joint cognitive school… Membership Required You must be a member to access this content.View Membership LevelsAlready...
Human Error – Which school do you subscribe to? (Video) Read More »
Reducing human error involves far more than taking disciplinary action against an individual. A range of measures is more effective controls, including the design of the equipment, job, procedures, and training. Actions for overcoming Active Failures… Membership Required You must be a member to access this content.View Membership LevelsAlready a member? Log in here...
Strategies for Reducing Human Error(s) Read More »
