Many safety management systems are initially developed in a theoretical environment or for ideal situations with implicit and explicit assumptions about the system’s optimal performance, equipment, and human activities. This is often called WORK-AS-IMAGINED and is formally documented in training, procedures, and equipment operating manuals. Differences between the designed performance or WORK-AS-IMAGINED and the realities of how work is actually done (known as ‘work-as-done’) are common.
Increasing alignment between WORK-AS-IMAGINED and WORK-AS-DONE involves identifying, assessing, and managing the conditions that positively or negatively shape human performance. Applying a human factors approach to understanding how work is performed will identify opportunities for better alignment and enhance human reliability.
The principles for integrating human factors into safety management systems are derived from international standards and best practices and in consultation with industry experts. Adopting these principles will assist in effectively integrating human factors into safety management systems. These principles are:
- adopt a holistic and integrated approach
- place people at the center of the system
- account for human variability
- ensure transparency of organizational processes and actions
- take account of social and organizational influences
- involve workers and respect and value their contribution
- encourage timely, relevant, and transparent two-way communication between workers and leaders
- ensure fairness of treatment (i.e., a no-blame, just culture)
It is well-recognized that the integration of human factors into safety management systems will result in benefits for operators. Regarding safety, the integration of human factors:
- facilitates continuous improvement to safety and the development of a learning culture
- increases understanding and ownership of safety processes
- establishes, maintains, and improves safety culture
- promotes and develops proactive and predictive management of risk
- supports the allocation of appropriate resources to safety processes
Source: Human factors fundamentals for petroleum and major hazard facility operators