Predicting and Preventing HUMAN Error IN Gas Plant Operations USING A Computer Aproach

This paper describes a set of techniques, supported by computer based tools, for predicting and preventing human errors in gas plant operations. The first two tools allow an analysis of the task structure and prediction of the errors that could arise at a task or subtask level, together with the potential consequences of these errors. The third tool develops a profile of the factors in the situation (e.g. workload, fatigue, distraction levels) that affect error probability, and the most cost effective interventions to reduce errors. The software is able to provide an estimate of the likelihood of the errors occurring. A simple graphical analysis method is provided as part of the toolset to support the analysis of accident sequences in retrospective analyses. The paper includes case studies illustrating the application of the tools to gas plant operations and the measurement of mental workload of bridge crews in shipping operations.