Offshore Transport Accident Analysis Using HFACS

Abstract

Despite the HFACS usefulness critics of this framework argue that it is ineffective in identifying the problem beyond the organisation level. This study, therefore examines the HFACS from the system approach. By examining the system; there is an emphasis on the work conditions and organisation processes an individual is placed, to carry out the required task. This influences both within and outside the organisation, leads to an error, hence, the establishment of the HFACS-HE. The HFACS-HE includes other external factors outside the organisation level causal to unsafe acts and unsafe situation. A comparative and documentary analysis of a selected offshore helicopter transport industry accident report from the United Kingdom and Nigeria was carried out using the HFACS-HE model. The outcome of the comparative analysis of the HFACS-HE model via the documentary investigations revealed that causal factors such as public, regulatory and politics have not been included in the original HFACS framework. These factors would be useful during the investigation process. Secondly, the study can be compared and replicated by other studies already carried out in other similar contexts. By using the structured system framework to identify human errors in accidents, the HFACS-HE can be used in other safety critical industries to enable effective safety interventions.