Human Factors at Aerodromes

Humans commit errors, they slip-up, forget things, take short-cuts, follow the wrong procedure and often communicate with each other inadequately. Humans also have limitations to their attention, their cognitive abilities and physical performance. It has long been recognised by accident investigators worldwide that the majority of accidents are attributable to human factors. The organisations that hire, train, supervise, reward and punish aviation workers are themselves culpable in either protecting humans from their own limitations or exposing them to the impacts of their (to be expected) error-making.

Aerodrome Operators and Competent Authorities (CAA) are obliged to integrate the principles of Human and Organisational Factors into policies, procedures, manuals, management systems, and training. The aim is to change individuals’ self-awareness and workplace behaviour, and, compel aerodrome senior management to consider adequate and appropriate resources, decision-making and leadership. The EU has now made this a requirement for aerodrome operators, but there is not much detailed guidance available.

During this 2-day training course you will gain the knowledge required to start integrating Human Factors into every aspect of your organisation, and therefore fully comply with the new legal requirements. Focus will fall on several key topics of study: uncovering the factors affecting human performance in the workplace; how the organisation contributes to human error; and, how to develop strategies that will reduce accidents caused, and contributed to, by employees, sub-contractors and other personnel. Specifically, attendees should be able to clearly define suitable HF training programmes, highlight necessary revisions to operating procedures, policies and procedures, and develop Human Factors safety awareness programmes. Attendees will be encouraged to participate in discussions and contribute using their personal experiences and knowledge.