Document: NUREG-0800
Document ID: 51b93b24-7bff-4144-949f-36812854b7aa
Document Type: srp
Title: HUMAN FACTORS ENGINEERING
Source: NUREG-0800
Source URL: https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML1612/ML16125A114.pdf
Revision Date: 2023-06
Chapter: 18
Section ID: 18.0
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Content:
er may be especially useful for cognitive 8 The CTA addresses limitations in current task analysis methods, such as: • Traditional task analysis methods mainly focus on physical activity (observable behaviors). However, as modern plants become much more highly automated, the role of personnel becomes less-and-less activity oriented, and more-and-more cognition oriented. Traditional methods are limited in their ability to analyze cognitive, supervisory control tasks. • Traditional methods tend to focus on the ways tasks should be performed from the perspective of designers, procedure developers, and trainers. These perspectives do not always capture how work is actually performed in the plant under the demands of the real work environment. (This is one of the primary concerns addressed in this new guidance.) • Traditional methods do not address well what makes situations demanding and difficult. However, in real world settings, task difficulty is an important determinant of performance and safety. frequently update and revise their understanding of the situation and how they manage the event. Scenarios with time pressure Complex tasks that need to be completed within a limited period of time may require operators to make a trade-off between the thoroughness of performing tasks (e.g., continuing data monitoring to assure the assessment, evaluating alternatives, confirming the actions before moving to the next step) and completing tasks in time. Scenarios causing prolonged stress Scenarios that require operators to work long working hours on non- routine, stressful tasks. Rapid workload transitions Periods of rapid workload transition are difficult to operators. For example, if an automatic system fails and operators have to suddenly perform the tasks manually, the workload experienced is typically high. Scenarios with significant consequences The potential consequences of the operator’s performance impact workload. If the consequences are significant, then