The evaluation of human reliability in process systems analysis

Abstract

Process systems analysis and the role of human performance in achieving safe operations are discussed. Methods for conducting process systems analysis acceptance criteria are identified. In order to achieve safety in processes, clearly defined criteria must be developed regarding acceptable levels of risk, and process systems analyses must be conducted to determine compliance. An application of this principle to processes involving high consequences from risk at the Department of Energy's (DOE) Rocky Flats Plant (RFP) is offered. It is stated that the prevailing industry approach to consideration of human error places too great an emphasis upon the role of human operators within the stated confines of system objectives. This leads to the underestimation of human error in high risk processes and an over-reliance upon process hardware to meet system safety objectives. It is concluded that in order to be effective, process analyses must address a broad range of human error that acknowledges cognitive, social, management, and organizational factors.<>