Klauer’s Taxonomy of Human Errors

Klauer’s Taxonomy of Human Errors serves as a valuable resource in various sectors such as aviation, healthcare, and manufacturing, where the potential for human error significantly impacts safety and efficiency. This methodology provides a structured approach to categorize errors, distinguishing between perceptual errors that stem from misinterpretations of sensory information, decision-making errors arising from flawed reasoning processes, and action-based errors linked to inappropriate execution of tasks. The applicability of this taxonomy extends into the design phase of products or systems, where engineers and designers can collaborate to create user interfaces that minimize the likelihood of perceptual misunderstandings or decision-making failures. For instance, in aviation, cockpit designs incorporate visual and auditory alerts that aid pilots in decision-making, addressing potential human errors identified through this taxonomy. Implementation in healthcare can involve designing medical devices that account for human behavior, ensuring that they align with user capabilities and limitations. Participants in this methodology typically include human factors engineers, system designers, safety analysts, and frontline workers, all working together to create a safer, more efficient environment through systematic error analysis and the adoption of user-centered design principles. The taxonomy’s framework aids teams in identifying root causes of errors, ensuring that systemic issues are addressed rather than placing blame on individuals, which ultimately enhances the reliability of the systems under consideration.