EXTERNAL PUBLICATIONS

SUMMARY

This report, and the work it describes, explores how HSE might reposition Human Factors/Ergonomics (HF/E) so it is more central to the thinking of Key Decision Makers (KDMs); within high hazard industries belonging to the Oil and Gas, Chemical and Nuclear sector. The findings suggest that although knowledge and understanding of HF/E is penetrating through there is recognition by KDMs that they need to do more. Possible options to help improve the application of knowledge and techniques in the prevention of error and unsafe behaviour include:

• improve knowledge and understanding of HF/E, primarily through training;
• develop and promote tools and guidance to help enhance this knowledge and assist in the practical application of this knowledge to the prevention of major accidents; and
• facilitate peer review to critique safety management system and processes and to demonstrate how particular HF/E techniques can be applied.

Improving knowledge; developing tools and guidance and facilitating peer review could be delivered in co-operation with industry associations and professional institutes. The eventual aim should be to better integrate HF/E into day-to-day management.

This report and the work it describes were funded by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Its contents, including any opinions and/or conclusions expressed, are those of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect HSE policy.