Designing To Avoid Human Error Consequences

AECL and CANDU utilities have developed a process for minimizing human error in plant operations and maintenance. Recent plant operational experience demonstrates that human error is a key contributor to operating inefficiencies, equipment damage, and significant plant events. To improve plant operation and safety, plant designers and utilities are placing renewed emphasis on approaches to prevent the occurrence and limit the effects of human error. One aspect of the multifaceted approach to addressing error involves the choice of features that are incorporated into plant systems. This paper discusses the systematic approach developed, outlines the principles and general process adopted for avoiding human error in design, and describes design solutions that are representative of specific application principles. It is expected that application of the recommended approach will result in plant designs with decreased risk of human error occurrence and consequence.