Understanding Human Error in Maintenance

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Questions and Answers

What is the first type of error that is defined in aviation maintenance?

Active error (correct)

Critical error

Violative error

Latent error

Which of the following statements accurately describes a slip?

An intentional deviation from protocol.

A good plan poorly executed. (correct)

A miscalculation of figures.

A defect in planning.

What defines a violation in aviation maintenance?

An oversight in recording work procedures.

A minor mistake that goes unnoticed.

A failure to understand instructions.

A serious deviation from established safety practices. (correct)

Which example represents a latent error?

Choosing not to wear safety gear. Signup and view all the answers

Why is reducing human error considered a safety frontier in aviation?

Human errors are more complex and unpredictable. Signup and view all the answers

How many possible combinations are there when reassembling the nut and bolt assembly discussed?

40,000 combinations Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of human error?

An unsafe act unintentionally committed. Signup and view all the answers

Which action should be taken when latent conditions that may lead to error are observed?

Report them to management immediately. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between acute stress and chronic stress?

Acute stress is a reaction to a specific event, whereas chronic stress persists over time. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Iceberg Model' illustrate in relation to human error?

Minor human errors are often overlooked while serious errors gain more attention. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Maintenance Error Decision Aid (MEDA) process?

To understand and minimize human errors through documentation. Signup and view all the answers

What role do Performance Shaping Factors (PSFs) play in human error?

They influence human performance and can either increase or decrease error probability. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by high exposure to noise in the workplace?

High noise can lead to increased rates of errors. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a symptom of stress?

Different individuals may exhibit various signs of stress. Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of identifying contributing factors in the MEDA process?

To determine corrective actions based on those factors. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about stressors is true?

Stressors can be both short-term and long-term varying in their impact. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes a serious airliner event in relation to the 'Iceberg Model'?

It represents the visible tip of a larger problem below the surface. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding corrective actions?

Corrective actions should be generic and applied uniformly. Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'Dirty Dozen' in the context of maintenance errors?

The 12 most common causes of human error in maintenance Signup and view all the answers

What does lack of teamwork refer to?

The failure of a group to work together towards a goal Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a common result of performing tasks repetitively?

Complacency leading to oversights Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a contributing factor to human error related to communication?

Failure to pay attention Signup and view all the answers

What is a common source of pressure in maintenance settings?

Close deadlines for tasks Signup and view all the answers

How can fatigue potentially affect maintenance work?

It can impair physical strength and mental ability Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes 'norms' in an organization?

They are accepted work practices not formally documented. Signup and view all the answers

What does lack of assertiveness in a worker indicate?

They avoid communication about necessary issues. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of distractions could affect maintenance work?

Thoughts, noise, and outside interruptions Signup and view all the answers

Why is lack of knowledge considered a serious issue in maintenance?

It is often compounded by communication failures. Signup and view all the answers

What is one way that distraction can be managed in maintenance?

By accepting distractions and finding coping strategies Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about stress in the workplace?

It can lead to better performance. Signup and view all the answers

What can result from complacency during routine maintenance tasks?

Overconfidence leading to mistakes Signup and view all the answers

What should workers do when faced with a lack of resources?

Speak up about the resource issue Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of Human Error

Human error is an action with unintended consequences.
It's an unsafe act committed unintentionally.
Errors can be slips (poor execution of a good plan) or mistakes (bad plans).
Violations are serious mistakes; deviating from safe practices, procedures, standards, or regulations.

Types of Errors

Active error: The specific individual action that's the obvious event.
Latent error: Company issues leading to the event; for example, broken equipment or lack of proper resources.

The "Dirty Dozen"

A list of the 12 most common causes of human error in maintenance.
Developed by Gordon Dupont at Transport Canada.
Eliminating these causes can significantly reduce maintenance-related events.
Lack of Communication: A particularly common type of error.
Lack of Teamwork: Failure of a group to work together toward a common goal.
Norms: Commonly accepted work practices; often not written down.
Pressure: Can come from self-imposed demands, managers, or co-workers. Often related to deadlines.
Complacency: Overconfidence arising from repeated tasks; a sense of automaticity.
Lack of Knowledge: Failure to consult manuals, collaborate, or communicate known deficiencies; compounded by fatigue.
Lack of Awareness: Failure to pay attention to potential hazards, obstacles, or surroundings.
Lack of Resources: Lack of necessary tools, manuals, parts, or personnel; often exacerbated by other errors.
Distraction: Mental and environmental distractions (noise, thoughts, co-workers).
Lack of Assertiveness: Failing to speak up when necessary, or to identify unsafe conditions.
Fatigue: A significant contributing factor, negatively impacting physical strength and mental concentration. Fatigue occurs in two forms: chronic and acute.
Stress: A psychological or sometimes physical condition caused by stressors; can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic).

Examples of Errors

Transposing numbers: Reading 26 instead of 62.
Selecting the wrong work instructions: Incorrect job instructions.
Using a broken ladder: Active error is falling. Latent error is a broken ladder.
Neglecting to use a safety device: A latent error is when the parts room was closed, and the worker was not provided with a needed safety device.

Event Investigations – MEDA

Maintenance Error Decision Aid (MEDA): A process for investigating human error.
It documents, classifies, and understands errors.
Aims to minimize errors by identifying contributing factors and appropriate corrective actions.
The goal is to reduce costly, unsafe events.

Performance Shaping Factors (PSFs)

Influences that affect human performance and the likelihood of error; environmental, personal, and task-oriented influences.
Understanding and managing PSFs is key to reducing error and increasing reliability.

Noise

Exposure to high noise levels is harmful and cumulative.
Noise interferes with communication and increases the chance of error.
OSHA requires hearing protection above certain decibel levels.

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Description

This quiz explores the definition and types of human error, focusing on their implications in maintenance settings. It particularly highlights the 'Dirty Dozen' — a list of common causes of human error identified by Gordon Dupont. Enhance your knowledge on error management and improve safety standards.