Error Analysis

 

An error analysis is another fairly straightforward tool for understanding who, what, when, how, and where an individual is likely to make an error while they are performing a task. In addition, an error analysis will typically try to understand the likelihood of an error occurring as well as the consequences of an error taking place. Reason (1990) defines an error as “occasions in which a planned sequence or physical activity fails to achieve its intended outcome and these failures cannot be attributed to the intervention of some change agency” as well as slips, mistakes, and violation of taxonomy.

​

There are a wide range of analysis tools developed depending on the specific purpose of the error analysis. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages that must be considered when selecting the correct assessment for the job. Stanton et al, (2005) provides an in-depth account of the following techniques for conducting an error analysis.

​

• Systematic Human Error Reduction and Prediction Approach (SHERPA)

• Human Error Template

• Technique for the Retrospective and Predictive Analysis of Cognitive Errors (TRACEr)

• Task Analysis for Error Identification (TAFEI)

• Human Error Hazard and Operability (HAZOP)

• Technique for Human Error Assessment (THEA)

• Human Error Identification in Systems Tool (HEIST)

• The Human Error and Recovery Assessment Framework (HERA)

• System for Predictive Error Analysis and Reduction (SPEAR)

• Human Error Assessment and Reduction Technique (HEART)

• The Cognitive Reliability and Error Analysis Method (CREAM)

​

​

​

​

Stanton, N. A., Salmon, P. M., Rafferty, L. A., Walker, G. H., Baber, C., Jenkins, D. P. (2005). Human error identification methods. Human factors methods (pp. 139–212). Burlington, VT: Ashgate Publishing Company.

 

Reason, J., (1990). Human error. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press.