First insights into the human-related risks of tunnel inspection

Abstract

Whereas human factors in the non-destructive testing (NDT) of metallic components are a poorly investigated topic (in comparison to other industrial fields such as aviation), human factors in the inspection of concrete components are even less known. Studies have shown that there is always some variability between individuals in their inspection results and that human factors affect the reliability of NDT inspections. And even though those human factors (the effects of and interaction between technology, organisation, environment, and individual characteristics) do not necessarily lead to negative inspection outcomes, their understanding is a vital step towards preventing possible structure-breaking failures and thereby ensuring the safety of industry, environment and infrastructure. To identify the possible human-related risks in the tunnel inspection, a systematic approach to risk management has been adopted. This involves identification of risks, their characterisation, and suggestions for risk treatment. In line with this approach, the inspections will be observed followed by interviews with inspectors to collect initial information about the inspections in the field and possible performance shaping factors. Furthermore, a human-oriented Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) will be used to identify possible human-related risks throughout data collection and evaluation and to evaluate them with respect to their possible causes, consequences, the probability of their occurrence and with respect to existing and possible preventive measures. The results aim to increase our overall understanding of human factors related to NDT, provide first insights and understanding of human factors in tunnel inspection and suggest measures to prevent human error in that application.