Human Factors Analysis and Classification System

Abstract
As aircrafts become more reliable over the years, humans have progressively become more of a causal factor in aviation accidents. Thus, being able to analyze an accident from a human factor perspective is of paramount importance. However, a proper framework of accident analysis is necessary to address the complex and often nebulous nature of human error. The Human Factors Analysis and Classification System Maintenance Extension (HFACS-ME) is one such framework that serves as an accident investigation and data analysis tool. This article will analyze how HFACS-ME is used from an applied perspective and demonstrate its utility using case studies.

Human Factors Analysis and Classification System Maintenance Extension The Human Factors Analysis & Classification System (HFACS) was originally developed to analyze and classify human errors and other factors contributing to aviation incidents. HFACS combines features from Heinrich’s “Domino Theory” and Edward’s “SHEL Model” as well as Reason’s model to uncover factors that contribute to accidents (Schmidt, J. Lawson, D., n.d.). The Maintenance Extension of HFACS termed HFACE-ME was created to address aviation maintenance related incidents and facilitates the recognition of defective or absent defenses at four levels namely, Unsafe: Management Conditions, Maintainer Conditions, Working Conditions, and Maintainer Acts (Watson, J. Kanki, B., n.d.). For the most part HFACS-ME function very much like HFACS does for aircrew factors. Active failures and Latent conditions are segregated into one of three categories. These categories allows an analyst to identify failures at three levels namely, supervisory conditions, operator conditions, and operator acts. By doing so, these classifications can