Human Performance Tools

7/27/2020

Over the years, organizations have developed tools that can be used within the workplace that are based on Human Factors, thereby enabling management and workers to control workplace hazards.   Without a doubt, some of these tools, we are not are not just familiar, but which we already incorporate.  Below is a list of 14 common human performance tools.

The Pre-job Brief is a human performance tool that allows all to think through a job and use our combined knowledge to make the job as safe and efficient as possible.  And while a supervisor should be present, the workers involved with performing the work should play an active role during the briefings. Pitfalls with performing tailgate meetings include lecturing rather than discussing the job. Meetings should be concise and not last more than 30 minutes, allowing those with process knowledge to fully participate.   

Two-minute drill: Recognizing abnormal conditions and identifying safety hazards is the first step to error-free and event-free performance.  The two-minute rule requires workers to simply take time before starting a job to become aware of the immediate work environment to detect conditions unanticipated by the initial work planning and the pre-job briefings. Many times, procedures do not contain all the information related to the demands placed on field workers that may be present at the job site, especially during critical steps. A brief review of the job site allows for appropriate time to detect abnormalities and hazards. Typical pitfalls associated with the two-minute drill include hurrying, thinking the job is “routine” or “simple” and having the mindset that nothing bad can happen. Once hazards have been identified, the appropriate precautions must be discussed. Also, persons with “gut feeling concerns” should not remain silent. There is a saying in the field of S&H: If something doesn’t feel right, there is a good change there is something wrong. So, discuss your gut feelings.

Three-way communication: This is an HFI tool to be used during critical activities; typically used in the nuclear industry.  And while this practice may not be necessary for all our typical field work, there are high-risk operations which TPMC is involved.  A critical operation is considered to a scenario when any unplanned events can result in a devastating occurrence such as an uncontrolled fire, damage to essential equipment, fatalities, etc. Crane operations that are classified as critical lifts (lifts that exceed 75% of the crane lift capacity) can fall into this category.   When we are involved with critical operations, messages should use three-way communication and begins when (1st) the sender gets the attention of the intended receiver, using the person’s name, and speaks the message. Then (2nd), the receiver repeats the message in a paraphrased form, which helps the sender verify that the receiver understands the intended message. Finally (3rd), the sender acknowledges that the receiver heard and understood the message. When the receiver paraphrases the message, equipment nomenclature, identifiers, and data are repeated back exactly as spoken by the sender. The third leg of the communication is often the weak link, since the sender is tempted to not pay attention to the receiver’s statement, assuming the person heard their message. If the receiver does not receive acknowledgment from the sender, he/she should be assertive, and ask the sender to complete the third leg. Feedback is necessary to verify understanding of each spoken message. 

Three-way communications should never use slang terms. Specific terminology is essential. A weak link in this process can occur when one of the persons on the line does not repeat the message exactly and the receiver assumes, he/she understands the message. Of course, skipping the 3-way process to speed up the process is also weak link that can result in unwanted consequences.    

Phonetic Alphabet: The phonetic alphabet should be used when the sender or receiver feels there is a possibility of misunderstanding a communication such as, sound alike systems, high noise areas, radio/ telephone communication where reception is poor, etc. This tool is used during verbal communication and is NOT used in written communication. When speaking, ‘B’ can easily sound like ‘C’ or ‘D.’

Rather than creating the great American novel, I will stop here and complete the remaining HFI   Tools next week. Understandably, certain tools, such as three-way communications and use of the phonetic alphabet may not be necessary for all our project tasks, but when necessary, we have these tools available and ready to use. Understandably, some training and practice will be required.    

Hide not your talents. They for use were made. What’s a sundial in the shade

Benjamin Franklin