SH24: Don't just focus on the errors

In this podcast episode, we explore the concept of human error in diving and how it relates to different types of errors, including slips, lapses, mistakes, and violations. The episode highlights that errors alone aren't the primary issue; they need to occur in a specific context where hazards and control/mitigation measures are present to impact safety. Using a real-life example from the "If Only" documentary, the podcast discusses how various factors, such as time pressure, equipment issues, and social environments, can contribute to catastrophic outcomes when combined with errors. It introduces the "TWIN" or "WITH" model, which categorizes error-precursors into four areas: Work Environment, Task Demands, Individual Capability, and Human Nature. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding these error-precursors to enhance dive safety and prevent adverse events. It also encourages divers and instructors to proactively identify and address these conditions, highlighting the role of context in diving incidents and accidents.   Task Demands Time pressure (in a hurry) High workload (large memory) Simultaneous, multiple actions Repetitive actions/monotony Irreversible actions Interpretation requirements Unclear goals, roles, or responsibilities Lack of or unclear standards   Individual Capabilities Unfamiliarity with task/first time Lack of knowledge (faulty mental model) New techniques not used before Imprecise communication habits Lack of proficiency/inexperience Indistinct problem-solving skills Unsafe attitudes Illness or fatigue; general poor health   Work Environment Distractions/interruptions Changes/departure from routine Confusing displays or controls Work-arounds/OOSß instrumentation Hidden system/equipment response Unexpected equipment conditions Lack of alternative indication Personality conflict   Human Nature Stress Habit patterns Assumptions Complacency/overconfidence Mind-set (intentions) Inaccurate risk perception Mental shortcuts or biases Limited short-term memory   Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/don-t-just-focus-on-the-errors Links: HF for Dummies Part 2- Human Error: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/hf-in-diving-for-dummies-part-2-human-error ‘If Only’ Documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly Normalisation of Deviance blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/normalisation-of-deviance-not-about-rule-breaking Institute of Nuclear Power Operations reference guide: http://nuclearsafety.info/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Human-Performance-Reference-Manual.pdf Tags: English, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Incident Investigation, Incident Reporting