Working memory capacity improves checking performance for errors on a simulated rail control task.

Area of Science:

• Human Factors
• Cognitive Psychology
• Occupational Safety

Background:

• Effective safety management in high-risk settings relies on thorough worker checking.
• Understanding factors influencing checking performance is crucial for error detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of working memory capacity, mindfulness, sleep, and interruptions on checking performance.
• To identify key individual and task-related factors influencing error detection in simulated high-risk environments.

Main Methods:

• 86 participants undertook a 32-minute rail control simulation.
• Participants performed matching and critical analysis checks with interruptions.
• Working memory capacity, mindfulness, sleep, and interruptions were assessed.

Main Results:

• Higher working memory capacity correlated with increased response accuracy and faster response times.
• Matching tasks yielded higher accuracy than critical analysis and assimilation tasks.
• Mindfulness and interruptions did not significantly affect performance.

Conclusions:

• Working memory capacity is a significant predictor of checking performance and error detection.
• Task type influences performance, suggesting optimization strategies should consider task demands.
• Individual differences and task requirements are key to optimizing checking and error detection in safety-critical roles.