Human Factors Integration for a new chemical plant: Why Bother? Liz Cullen Senior Human Factors Consultant
Human Factors HS(G)48 “Human factors refer to environmental, organisational and job factors, and human and individual characteristics, which influence behaviour at work in a way which can affect health and safety” Human- Machine System JOBINDIVIDUALORGANISATION
Why Bother? COMAH - HSE guidance for assessors: Optimised safety and operability “The safety report should also show how human factors have been taken into account in the design of equipment and systems (e.g. usability, tolerance of errors, detectability and recovery)” “It should be clear how human factors have been taken into account in the risk assessment”
Human Factors Integration An HFIP is a means of ensuring that all HF issues have been identified and considered Early integration into project lifecycle optimises benefits
Benefits to Nippon Goshei Helped to optimise: Training Procedures Control room layout DCS interfaces Alarms Fatigue management Human error prevention Early integration minimised cost and avoided delays Safety Case accepted 2003 Plant commissioned 2004
Conclusion Human Factors – Why Bother? Legal requirement – COMAH Optimised safety & operability Integration with project is essential - HFIP Early within project lifecycle