Human Factors

 

Human Factors

        As a multidisciplinary field around human capabilities and limitations, human factors apply to all aspects of the aviation industry for the "safe, efficient, and effective human performance" (FAA, 2017). It is here that the dirty dozen are so commonly known in the industry. These 12 most common causes play a key in understanding and mitigating risk throughout each job function in relation to the actions and effects of a human being. 

        From my experience, I have witnessed and experienced almost each of the dirty dozen. More recently in the MRO shop I work in, it seems to be a constant presence of these 12 factors. From the lack of knowledge, miscommunication, distraction, or stress, there is always the presence of potential failure. We manage these factors by applying basic and proactive actions to the team to help with risk mitigation. For example, for the factors that are not so easy to control like stress, distraction, or norms, we use education and visual cues to keep the team informed of such situations if they encounter them. This is as simple as a poster on the wall, or a weekly newsletter. The other factors that are more manageable encompass different levels of preparation to ensure the potential "probability" is reduced (Cane, 2017). Let's take one we can all relate to, communication. The approach to this is a comprehensive visual report that is updated regularly throughout the day on work status and the shop's priorities. This keeps the team informed of what the tasks are for the day, ensuring that the schedule is followed and maintained. Another example would be complacency. We incorporate complacency awareness through discussions and routine auditing not only quality representatives but everyone on the team. The approach with this is to provide that second, fresh set of eyes. This allows for somewhat of a safety net for the shop, while still maintaining accountability for work performed. 

        With all the tools in place, knowledge and awareness provided one thing remains, we are all humans and we make mistakes. It comes down to what we can proactively engage in that can help reduces the chances of any one category of the dirty dozen having an effect on our work. 

   

Department of Transportation (2017) Maintenance and Human Factors - AC 120-72A. Federal Aviation Administration. Retrieved from: https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_120-72A.pdf 

Cane, D. (2017) Aviation Maintenance Technician Series: General. Aviation Supplies & Academic, Inc. Forth edition. Chapter 16.