Did you check out ep 12 of Safe As? This explored how human performance is considered within barrier / critical control frameworks.
Based on a paper from McLeod 2012 – some of the issues with current practices is that:
1) Both too many barriers are identified, and they rarely take a systems view
2) The complexity and real world performance specifications (work as done) are rarely considered in order for barriers to function as intended
3) ‘Human error’ is often modelled as a threat, when it’s not. People normally enable the barrier to function, and are essential for adapting to changing conditions or assumptions
4) We often rely more on assumptions of human performance, than actual reasoned analysis and verification
Focusing on human error and people as unreliable elements shifts the focus to controlling people rather than better designing the environment that they operate in.
That is, ensuring the barrier operates as effectively as possible.
It also shifts a focus to people as problem makers, rather than as flexible and adaptable strengths.
Check out the pod and McLeod’s paper, it’s a great read.
Ref: McLeod, Ronald W., Human Factors in Barrier Management: Hard Truths and Challenges. Process Safety and Environment Protection
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Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5BACkpJMDDF8sOGlcze0Cw?si=okp4skJfS9C1dBWPHwaRhg
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-12-human-performance-in-barrier-critical-control/id1819811788?i=1000718154331
SafetyInsights.org 