Applying the Swiss Cheese Model of Accident Causation
Abstract
This paper shows how utilizing the Swiss Cheese Model of accident causation can aid engineering managers in understanding how errors might occur and how they can be prevented. Human error is an issue of concern for every system. Engineering managers need a structured approach to identify system gaps that fail to address potential human errors. The model considers different levels of human error including unsafe acts, preconditions for unsafe acts, unsafe supervision, and organizational influences. Examples of past incidents including the Space Shuttle Challenger and the Exxon Valdez oil spill that resulted in catastrophic outcomes will be analyzed using the Swiss Cheese Model to identify potential hazards, safeguards, and shortcomings that resulted in loss of human lives, financial ruin, environmental damages and other impacts.
Recommended Citation
H. M. Altabbakh and S. L. Murray, "Applying the Swiss Cheese Model of Accident Causation," Proceedings of the Annual International Conference of the American Society for Engineering Management (2011, Lubbock, TX), pp. 301 - 307, American Society for Engineering Management (ASEM), Oct 2011.
Meeting Name
Annual International Conference of the American Society for Engineering Management (2011: Oct. 19-22, Lubbock, TX)
Department(s)
Engineering Management and Systems Engineering
Second Department
Psychological Science
Keywords and Phrases
Accident causation; Engineering managers; Environmental damage; Exxon Valdez oil spill; Human errors; Human lives; Potential hazards; Structured approach; Accidents; Management; Managers; Oil spills; Space shuttles; Errors
International Standard Book Number (ISBN)
978-1618393616
Document Type
Article - Conference proceedings
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2011 American Society for Engineering Management, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
22 Oct 2011
