To contain and control human error, one must first understand its nature. There are basic concepts associated with the nature of human error: the origins of errors can be fundamentally different, and the consequences of similar errors can also be significantly different. While some errors are due to carelessness, negligence, or poor judgment, others may be induced by poorly d signed equipment or may result from a person’s normal reaction to a particular situation. The latter kind of error is likely to be repeated, and its occurrence can be anticipated.
If we want to find actual solutions for the problems human errors cause, we often need large organizational and systemic changes. Another way is to build error tolerance into the system—limiting the consequences of errors when they do occur. This involves adopting a broad organizational approach to error management rather than focusing solely on the
individuals making errors. Here are some suggested strategies from the Human Factors and Error Management training manual (2010)…
(Link provided to SAFTENG members)