Forward and Backward Error Recovery Factors in Digital Human-System Interface Design

This paper examines the idea that just as there are specific factors that can affect the performance of a task in human reliability analysis (HRA) models, there are also specific characteristics that will impact the likelihood of a recovery from an error state. The first set of factors is commonplace in many HRA models and methods and fits well with the common understanding of task completion and human error. This paper seeks to set out a brief list of measurable factors that would influence a recovery in both negative and positive means and various design practices and tools that can assist in these processes. By focusing on recovery, and specifically only actions that come after the human error or post initiator, this paper seeks to highlight positive design changes, areas of improvement, and a more robust design framework that can capture the second half of an erroneous action and empower the operator to successfully guide a system to safety. Two ideas, forward and backward error recovery, are discussed in terms of what potential changes they may make to designing complex process control interfaces and displays. As the nuclear power industry seeks to implement digital control schemes in various systems, there could be clear design decisions that can be made to aid the future operator in recovering from an erroneous action in a way that prevents any deleterious effects on the plant.