HFAST: A Tool to Assess Human Error Potential in Operations

Abstract

Abstract HFAST (Human Factors Analysis Software Tool) is a self-help software tool used by operating sites to identify the potential for human error in the design, operation, and maintenance of site systems. Reduced error potential results in fewer errors in daily operations, leading to improved safety and more efficient operations. Through a process of consensus, the team rates diagnostic statements about the conditions at their site in as many as 14 general categories for improvement (e.g., field workplace design, procedures, training, communication structure). Based on these responses, the program produces a report that provides guiding principles for improving the design of systems and work processes to reduce the potential for human error. This paper describes the genesis and development of the tool, how the tool would be used by an operating site, and provides examples of site benefits from applying the tool. Background The petroleum industry has well-established safety and environmental policies that reflect a commitment to personnel safety and to protection of the environment and assets. However, the increasing complexity of industrial activities and rapidly evolving technologies have increased industry's safety management challenge. There is a need to build on and extend traditional practices to counter the increasing complexity of our operations. Studies and incident investigations conducted within theoil industry and elsewhere clearly indicate that human error is a significant source of risk to safe and environmentally sound perations 1–9. Figure 1 indicates that human error is a contributor in 50-75% of incidents. In systems where a high degree of hardware redundancy minimizes the consequences of single system failures, human errors may comprise over 90% of the system failure probability 10. Fig. 1 -- Addressing Human Error (Available in full paper) A traditional emphasis on training, motivation, structured management systems, and discipline, coupled with hardware design improvements, has contributed to significant improvements to safety performance in industry. However, as technical components are becoming more reliable, the relative importance of human factors in achieving continued improvement is increasing. A recent survey of the literature 11 revealed that the estimated involvement of human error in the breakdown of hazardous technologies increased four-fold between the 1960s and the 1990s. Many factors contribute to the potential for error. These factors may be out of the direct control of individuals or may not be obvious to individuals. Highly protected systems may also automatically recover from some adverse factors, hiding them from observation, unless there is an extreme error which results in a severe consequence. The potential for error is significant because it is influenced by the interaction of several factors, some of which may not be immediately obvious.