Human error design process opportunities

Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) can be defined as the application of a systematic method to a process design in order to identify potential hazards and operating problems. It determines the causes and consequences of abnormal process conditions that arise from equipment failure, human error or other events. The goal is to determine whether opportunities exist to reduce the risks of the toll s hazards and then to implement warranted action items. The AJChE CCPS guideline Guidelines for Hazard Evaluation Procedures, Second Edition with Worked Examples is a good resource for fully detailed approaches to process hazard analysis. It provides an introduction to hazard evaluation as well as guidance on ... 

Juran defined critical processes as ones that present serious dangers to human life, health, and the environment or create losses of very large sums of money. Such processes require planning and design to reduce opportunities for human error to a minimum. Emphasis is on continuous improvement to achieve quality. That also emphasizes reducing accidents. 

Man-Machine Interfaces Another important consideration in machines and equipment is the interface with users. Ergonomics or human factors engineering principles are often critical in the design of machines and equipment. There are many opportunities to improve productivity and reduce errors in operations that may result in accidents by understanding the visual, auditory, tactile, physical, and mental processing capabihties and Hmitations of people. One must also recognize that many variables in people can affect performance of machines and equipment. 

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