Human processes of control: tracing the goals and strategies of control room teams

This study utilized a process tracing methodology to analyse the goals and strategies of control room teams in dealing with an unpredicted plant disturbance. The human processes of control used by operators and their supervisors, and interactions between them, were analysed during phases of detection, diagnosis, and control of a small plant leak. Five control room teams were videotaped tackling this simulated scenario on a full-scale simulator. The results found substantial differences both within and between teams in how the goals of monitoring and implementing procedures during the detection phase, and problem-solving and plant control during the diagnosis phase were achieved. The temporal patterning of the activities associated with these goals revealed that the teams used different strategies. The training implications of these findings are discussed, in particular with respect to the control room supervisor who had a pivotal role.