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Development and application of a human error identification tool for air traffic control.
Steven T Shorrock1, Barry Kirwan
1Det Norske Veritas, Highbank House, Stockport, Cheshire, UK. steven.shorrock@dnv.com
Applied Ergonomics
|August 6, 2002
Summary
A new human error identification (HEI) technique, TRACEr, aids air traffic control (ATC) by analyzing cognitive errors. This method supports design, development, and operations, proving valuable for ATC safety and future applications.
Area of Science:
- Human Factors Engineering
- Cognitive Psychology
- Aviation Safety
Background:
- Air traffic control (ATC) operations require robust human error identification (HEI) methods.
- Existing HEI tools may not fully address the complexities of cognitive errors in ATC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and describe the TRACEr technique for retrospective and predictive analysis of cognitive errors in ATC.
- To evaluate the applicability and effectiveness of TRACEr in a real-world ATC scenario.
Main Methods:
- Development of TRACEr, a technique based on inter-related taxonomies and a cognitive framework.
- Application of TRACEr in both retrospective (learning from past events) and predictive (anticipating future issues) modes.
- Evaluation of TRACEr during the assessment of reduced separation minima in UK airspace.
Main Results:
- TRACEr demonstrated utility in analyzing cognitive errors within the ATC environment.
- The technique was successfully applied to assess safety options for reduced separation minima.
- Both retrospective and predictive analyses using TRACEr provided valuable insights.
Conclusions:
- TRACEr is a valuable tool for the design, development, and operational phases of UK ATC.
- The TRACEr technique has potential for broader application in ATC systems across Europe and the USA.