Modeling human error in structural design and construction : proceedings of a workshop sponsored by the National Science Foundation, Ann Arbor, Michigan, June 4-6, 1986

Human error is recognized as the major cause of structural failure. Moreover, it may greatly exacerbate the damaging effect of other hazards, such as earthquakes. The objectives of this workshop were to take status of research results up to date in order to identify the most effective approach for the near future; to identify, in particular, the promise and difficulties of the scenario approach; and to determine the degree of background preparation necessary for effective improvement of structural reliability in the long range, i.e., optimal control of the process of structural production. Top international experts were brought together with the aim that a coherent strategy for research and professional activity for the next five to ten years can be identified and agreed upon by the most active workers on the subject of human error in structures. The technical papers contributed by the participants deal with various aspects of the problem. The discussion and findings of three working groups (occurrence of errors, reliability models and error control strategies) are summarized in the reports which are included in this book.