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Human Factors: What are they and how can we reduce the risks?

by Mark McCarver

Controller fatigue and impaired employees have long been on the “hit list” of the NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board), which swings a big stick anytime a regulation for pipeline safety is written.  As a result of their pressure and other factors, the Pipes Act of 2006 indicates that regulations shall be issued that require operators of gas and hazardous liquid pipelines to evaluate and take measures to reduce risks associated with human factors, including fatigue, for pipeline controllers and other employees who work with the pipeline proper and its appurtenances. The “Pipeline Safety Control Room Management/Human Factors: Proposed Rule” was issued by PHMSA on September 12, 2008. 
What are human factors? What can we do to reduce the risks of human factors? We as an industry have addressed some of the issues through operator qualification, but the proposed rule presents some other concerns and how to address them. Human factors can be complex, but simply stated, involve the application of the knowledge of human capabilities and limitations to the design, operation, and maintenance of a system. When human factors are addressed and incorporated into every aspect of the pipeline system, accident risks from human error can most assuredly be reduced. This translates to a safer public, along with safer employees. This can also result in greater protection to our environment by reducing spills and other pipeline system discharges and failures. 
In order to address human factors, we must consider the interaction between people and many other factors, including environment, procedures, and equipment. In order to improve the interaction, we have to identify possible problem areas and take steps to reduce and/or minimize the potential for them to occur.
When an accident occurs, it could have multiple causes, and one failure can lead to another. Even though the various facets of a system function independently, all are closely connected and must operate smoothly to be accident free.  All of us possess certain capabilities and limitations for vision, hearing, and other physical functions. Simply said, we all have strengths and weaknesses. When we factor in health and “personal life” issues, complications can occur. Unfortunately, some of the factors are not easily measured and may often be unpredictable. 
The proposed rule addresses capabilities and limitations of individuals. We all know that fatigue is an issue that can affect each of us. Shift work practices and communication between employees, along with education, help insure that our limits and capabilities are not exceeded. When critical areas affecting fatigue are addressed and corrected, a safe work environment should occur. The proposed rule requires a company to address changes, evaluate, and learn from operations, and validate that human factors are well managed. There is an emphasis on developing solutions, rather than casting blame. If change is mandated, it is imperative that management make sure that each employee or affected person is on board and has the necessary information about the change.  It is critical that responsibilities of the job are well defined and that employees have the training necessary to carry out the job.
At this time, PHMSA and the pipeline industry are working together on the proposed rule change. The final rule could change, but you can bet there will be a requirement to address human factors, particularly human fatigue, and the other areas in the proposed rule.

Mark McCarver is the Director of the Pipeline Safety Division of the Mississippi Public Service Commission.