EXTERNAL FACTORS IN ERROR GENERATION

In aviation, three main sources for external errors are generally recognised.

• Social Environment. This includes aspects such as national and company culture. In certain cultural set-ups, other crew members tend not to challenge the decision of the commander, finding it difficult to speak up.
• Ergonomics. (designed related) The pilot’s workplace is designed such that below-optimum conditions exist for him to perform all required tasks. An ergonomic source of error is, for example, cockpit noise and the restriction of the field of view due to windscreen design. Ideally, the principle of design ensures that the job required should be fitted to the man rather than the man to the job – this is not always the case.
• Economics. Pilots are required to make operation as economic as possible. Such pressure can result in incautious decisions. Errors due to economics can include, for instance, the use of poor and cheap equipment.