Class 1 (Chief Engineer) Engineering Management 📅 Mar 2023

Exam Question

(a) It is a common statement that 80% of accidents are caused due to human error. Discuss the term 'human error' referred to here of a complex hierarchical society technical system (8)

(b) The terms Human Element, Human Error and Human Factor have often been used interchangeably in relation with the maritime incidents/accidents. How in your opinion do these terms differ? Discuss with suitable examples. (8)

Reference Answer

### Part (a): Human Error in a Complex Hierarchical Socio-Technical System
The statement that "80% of accidents are caused by human error" is a misleading oversimplification. In the context of a modern maritime vessel—a complex hierarchical socio-technical system—viewing human error as the root cause is fundamentally flawed. It represents an outdated perspective that blames the individual at the 'sharp end' while ignoring the deeper, systemic failures that create the conditions for error.
A more accurate and effective analysis requires breaking down the system:
* **Socio-Technical System**: This describes the intricate interplay between people (the 'socio' component) and the technology, equipment, and hardware they operate (the 'technical' component). These elements are inseparable; the performance of one directly affects the other.

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