The Field Guide to Understanding 'Human Error' - Book reviews of The Field Guide to Understanding 'Human Error'

'The Field Guide to Understanding 'Human Error'' book reviews

Review for'The Field Guide to Understanding 'Human Error''

In 'The Field Guide to Understanding Human Error', author Sidney Dekker provides an insightful, thought-provoking examination of the concept of human error, and its role in various industries and sectors. The book explores the idea that human error is not a cause of failure, but a symptom of deeper systemic issues within an organization. Dekker's compelling arguments, combined with his accessible writing style, make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the fields of safety, quality control, and organizational behavior.

Dekker opens with a critique of the old 'person approach' to human error, which places blame on individuals for mistakes and accidents. He argues that this approach is not only unjust but also counterproductive, as it focuses on punishing people rather than addressing the underlying problems that lead to errors. This sets the stage for the rest of the book, where Dekker presents his alternative view: the 'system approach'.

The 'system approach' recognizes that human actions are influenced by the environment in which they take place, and that errors are therefore a natural consequence of complex systems. Dekker contends that instead of blaming individuals, organizations should aim to understand why errors occurred in the context of the system. This involves looking at factors such as work conditions, technology, and organizational culture. By doing so, organizations can identify and address systemic weaknesses that contribute to errors, thereby preventing future mistakes and accidents.

Dekker's arguments are supported by a wealth of real-world examples and case studies, from aviation accidents to medical errors. These case studies not only illustrate his points but also make the book engaging and relatable. Moreover, Dekker goes beyond theory and provides practical advice on how to apply the system approach in real-world situations. This includes tips on how to conduct investigations into human error, how to communicate findings, and how to foster a just and learning culture within an organization.

Despite its strengths, the book does have a few minor weaknesses. Some readers might find the repetition of key points throughout the book to be excessive. However, this repetition serves to reinforce Dekker's arguments and ensure that readers fully grasp his concepts. Additionally, while the book is generally well-written, there are a few instances where the language is overly technical, which might make it difficult for non-experts to understand.

Overall, 'The Field Guide to Understanding Human Error' is a groundbreaking book that challenges conventional wisdom on human error. It is a valuable resource for professionals in safety-critical industries, as well as for academics and students in the fields of human factors and safety science. Despite its minor flaws, the book's thought-provoking content, practical advice, and engaging case studies make it a worthwhile read.

In conclusion, Sidney Dekker's 'The Field Guide to Understanding Human Error' is a compelling, insightful examination of human error that challenges the reader to rethink traditional notions of blame and responsibility. It is a valuable contribution to the literature on safety and organizational behavior, and a must-read for anyone interested in understanding and preventing human error.

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