The Role of Human Error in Design, Construction, and Reliability of Marine Structures.

Abstract : This project addressed the following key questions. What is HOE? Can HOE be defined and classified? Can HOE be quantified? Should HOE be reflected in design codes and criteria? During this project, Human and Organization Errors (HOE) in design and construction of ship structures were defined and classified. Relevant case studies involving marine and non-marine structures and systems were summarized. Qualitative and quantitative processes for evaluating the incidence and effects of HOE were developed and illustrated. The impacts of HOE on design guide lines were studied, and alternatives for the managment of HOE in the design and construction of ships were addressed. Particular attention was given to how considerations of HOE should be incorporated into a Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) guideline for ship structures being developed under the auspices of the SSC. Organization, ship designer, written guideline, and computer software aspects were addressed. Specific recommendations were made regarding what should be done in development of the LRFD guideline to address HOE considerations. This project defined quality in ship structures as the realization of the combination of desirable serviceability, safety (reliability), durablity, and compatability (schedule, economic, environmental). This project identified how Total Quality Management (QM), Quality Assurance (CA) and Quality Control (CC), the 150 9000 Quality Standards, the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, and Quality Management Systems (QMS) are potentially complimentary approaches that are intended to achieve adequate quality in ship structures.