Human Factors Engineering Implementation Strategy: A Generic Approac
Authors: McCafferty Denise B. , McSweeney Kevin P. , Mawby Mike , Conner George , de Koker Theo 
Published: October 2008

This paper presents a generic strategy for the application of Human Factors Engineering (HFE) from conceptual design through first production of offshore installations to enhance safety, reliability, and productivity. Integrating HFE principles into new design projects will result in installations that are more cost effective, safer, and easier to operate and maintain. The sooner HFE is proactively integrated into a design cycle, the more cost-effective the project will become and the greater the impact will be on business performance. The integration of HFE with other engineering disciplines ensures that designs are created that effectively match human capabilities and limitations with system requirements to create operational hardware and software that reduces the potential for human error, increases overall system availability, improves system safety, betters performance, and increases personnel satisfaction.

The strategy presented integrates HFE throughout the various life cycle phases of a project. It is applicable to both fixed and floating installations. This is achieved by introducing HFE into existing project management systems with the prime objective of ensuring that relevant HFE activities are executed effectively and efficiently throughout conceptual design, front-end engineering design, detail design, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning / start-up phases.

Defining Human Factors

Human factors is the interaction of people with each other, with facilities and equipment, and with management systems. This interaction is influenced by both the working environment and the nature (i.e., all that makes them what they are, includes culture, shape and size etc..) of the people involved. Human factors analysis focuses on how these interactions create a safe workplace (OGP, 2001). The successful application of human factors involves consideration of human capabilities, limitations, and motivations with regards to the work environment. To accomplish this, the HFE Specialist applies theory, principles, data, and methods to the design of equipment, products, work systems (plant/facility), management systems, tasks, and job aids, including procedures. The aim is to optimize human efficiency, effectiveness, health, safety, and well-being within the context of overall system performance (operability, reliability, and maintainability). The practical application of this field is called Human Factors Engineering (HFE).

Since the Piper Alpha incident in 1988, there has been an increasing interest in applying the principles, methodologies, and criteria of HFE to the design, construction, and operation of offshore installations. One of industry's difficulties has been a lack of practical guidance for assisting with the implementation and integration of HFE within design-related activities. This paper presents a Generic HFE Implementation Strategy to guide owners, operators, designers, contractors and vendors in the implementation of HFE within normal project-related activities.

Factors Influencing a Human Factors Engineering Implementation Strategy

One of the first steps for the successful integration of HFE throughout the early phases of a large capital project is the development of an understanding within the design team as to what HFE is and what strategy might be used to apply it.