Automated mainline railway operation is challenging the traditional role of the operational staff ensuring safe and punctual service. Nevertheless, there are sound operational, economic, regulatory and societal reasons for valuing and maintaining central contributions of human staff to railway operation in future automated service. Instead of a linear transferal of tasks from the human to the automation technology a human-machine collaboration setting becomes apparent that enables both, automation-driven benefits in terms of capacity or energy consumption and benefits in terms of efficient human intervention in case of operational uncertainty, where human decision-making and communication skills are key to safety.
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Automation Myth Busting Paper#3 Automation and mental workload
Automation paradoxically has the potential to both increase and decrease mental workload, depending on the circumstances. Furthermore, decreasing workload can actually put an operator into an underload state, which is just as bad for performance as overload. We have learned these lessons in the aviation and, more recently, automotive industries; as accident reports demonstrate, we are now starting to see their impact on the railway with the introduction of Automatic Train Operation and other automated systems. The key in helping an operator to work at their best is to find a way to optimise their mental workload – which may mean thinking differently about automation.
Automation Myth Busting Paper#4 Teaming between humans and automation
Due to technological advances, automation is nowadays no longer regarded only as a tool for humans but, due to the execution of complex tasks, is increasingly discussed in terms of a team member. This article describes how successful teaming can optimally be realized so that the strengths of the human operator and the automation are brought to bear. The decisive factor is a human-centred work design that focuses on the needs of human operators. An example from air traffic control is used and findings are transferred to the handling of existing interlocking technologies in the rail industry. First tendencies of teamwork between signallers and automation are already emerging today. In the future, this new form of teamwork can be further developed with the help of the introduced model on the key aspects for a successful teaming between humans and automation.
Mühl, K. (2021). Automated Railway – Operation as Usual: Best Practice to Achieve Situational Awareness. Automation myth busting series
Abstract This article aims to provide insights into achieving situational awareness as a basis for safe automated railway operations. Automation in rail transport has a significant influence on employees' situational...
Bainbridge, L. (1983). Ironies of automation. Automatica, 19(6), 775-779.
Abstract This paper discusses the ways in which automation of industrial processes may expand rather than eliminate problems with the human operator. Some comments will be made on methods of alleviating these problems...
Flemisch et al, “Towards a dynamic balance between humans and automation: authority, ability, responsibility and control in shared and cooperative control situations”, Cogn Tech Work (2012) 14:3–18
Abstract: Progress enables the creation of more automated and intelligent machines with increasing abilities that open up new roles between humans and machines. Only with a proper design for the resulting cooperative...
Gibson, H. (2016). Industry Human Factors SPAD Review: Project Summary Report. London: RSSB.
https://www.sparkrail.org/Lists/Records/DispForm.aspx?ID=22779
Read, G.J.M, Shorrock, S., Walker, G.H., Salmon P.M., 2021. State of science: evolving perspectives on ‘human error’. Ergonomics 64, 9, 1091-1114.
Abstract: This paper reviews the key perspectives on human error and analyses the core theories and methods developed and applied over the last 60 years. These theories and methods have sought to improve our...
Reason, J. (1997) Managing the risk of organisational accidents. Ashgate: Farnham.
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781315543543/managing-risks-organizational-accidents-james-reason
Bowler, N.; Gibson, H. (2015) “Fatigue and Its Contributions to Railway Incidents”
Abstract: This report analyzes a sample of 246 British railroad incidents using data from the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) Safety Management Information System (SMIS) and Incident Factor Classification System...
Pheasant, S. and Haslegrave, C.M. (2018) Bodyspace: Anthropometry, Ergonomics and the Design of Work. CRC Press.
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.1201/9781315375212/bodyspace-christine-haslegrave-stephen-pheasant
Flin. R (2013) “The Power of Behaviour: Non-Technical Skills”
https://www.veiligheidskunde.nl/stream/congres2013p-jan-de-kroes-lecture-the-power-of-behaviour-non-technical-skills-door-rhona-flin
Reason, 2000. Human error: models and management. British Medical Journal, 320, 768-770
https://www.bmj.com/content/320/7237/768?ath_user=efschouston002&ath_ttok=%3CTPEEDaMygDfSrj8WwQ%3E
Branford, K.; Naikar, N.; Hopkins, A. (2011). “Guidelines for AcciMap analysis”. In A. Hopkins (Ed.) Learning from High Reliability Organisations: 193–212
Abstract: This chapter focuses on a systems-based technique for accident analysis, referred to as the AcciMap approach." The technique involves the construction ofa multilayered diagram in which the various causes of...
Altabbakh, H, et al (2014), “STAMP – Holistic system safety approach or just another risk model?”, Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, 32: 109–119
Abstract: Risk management has a number of accident causation models that have been used for a number of years. Dr. Nancy Leveson (2002) has developed a new model of accidents using a systems approach. The new model is...
Accou, B. and Carpinelli, F. (2022) “Systematically investigating human and organisational factors in complex socio-technical systems by using the “SAfety FRactal ANalysis” method” Applied Ergonomics Volume 100
Abstract: In order to manage the performance of socio-technical systems in a safe and sustainable way, the importance of looking at human and organisational factors (HOF) and their contribution to adverse events is...
Crescencio. A, Martinez. O, Alban Millan. R (2022), “Human error analysis at Valencia railway operation control. Training proposal aimed at reducing human error”
Abstract: The objective of this paper is to present the human factors training methodology in Adif and its theoretical bases. This methodology represents a different way of understanding safety, more focused on what to...
Hopkins, A. (2006), “Studying organisational cultures and their effects on safety” Safety Science 44 875–889
Studying organisational cultures and their effects on safety Abstract: How do organisational cultures influence safety? To answer this question requires a strategy for investigating organisational culture. By far the...
Swuste, P.; van Gulijk, C.; Groeneweg, J.; Zwaard, W.; Lemkowitz, S.; Guldenmund, F. (2020), From clapham junction to macondo, deepwater horizon: Risk and safety management in high-tech-high-hazard sectors A review of English and Dutch literature: 1988–2010, Safety Science, Volume 121, Pages 249-282.
Abstract: Objective: What is the influence of general management trends and safety research on managing safety? Method: A literature study which is limited to original English and Dutch books, documents, and articles...
Rolina. G, Accou. B (2019), “Towards the European Railway Safety Culture Model”, WCRR 2019, Tokyo
Towards the European Railway Safety Culture Model Abstract In 2017, the European Union Agency for Railways launched an ambitious programme to foster the development of a positive safety culture across European...
Hesketh, S. (2015) – RSSB – Safety culture and behavioural development: Common factors for creating a culture of continuous improvement
https://www.sparkrail.org/Lists/Records/DispForm.aspx?ID=22292 Abstract: The aim of this guide is to provide practical information and advice on how to create a culture of continuous safety improvement and to reduce...
Automation Myth Busting Paper#2 The Changing Role of Staff in Automated Railway Operation and why Human Cognition is Here to Stay
Automated mainline railway operation is challenging the traditional role of the operational staff ensuring safe and punctual service. Nevertheless, there are sound operational, economic, regulatory and societal reasons for valuing and maintaining central contributions of human staff to railway operation in future automated service. Instead of a linear transferal of tasks from the human to the automation technology a human-machine collaboration setting becomes apparent that enables both, automation-driven benefits in terms of capacity or energy consumption and benefits in terms of efficient human intervention in case of operational uncertainty, where human decision-making and communication skills are key to safety.
Automation Myth Busting Paper#3 Automation and mental workload
Automation paradoxically has the potential to both increase and decrease mental workload, depending on the circumstances. Furthermore, decreasing workload can actually put an operator into an underload state, which is just as bad for performance as overload. We have learned these lessons in the aviation and, more recently, automotive industries; as accident reports demonstrate, we are now starting to see their impact on the railway with the introduction of Automatic Train Operation and other automated systems. The key in helping an operator to work at their best is to find a way to optimise their mental workload – which may mean thinking differently about automation.
Automation Myth Busting Paper#4 Teaming between humans and automation
Due to technological advances, automation is nowadays no longer regarded only as a tool for humans but, due to the execution of complex tasks, is increasingly discussed in terms of a team member. This article describes how successful teaming can optimally be realized so that the strengths of the human operator and the automation are brought to bear. The decisive factor is a human-centred work design that focuses on the needs of human operators. An example from air traffic control is used and findings are transferred to the handling of existing interlocking technologies in the rail industry. First tendencies of teamwork between signallers and automation are already emerging today. In the future, this new form of teamwork can be further developed with the help of the introduced model on the key aspects for a successful teaming between humans and automation.
Mühl, K. (2021). Automated Railway – Operation as Usual: Best Practice to Achieve Situational Awareness. Automation myth busting series
Abstract This article aims to provide insights into achieving situational awareness as a basis for safe automated railway operations. Automation in rail transport has a significant influence on employees' situational awareness (perception, understanding...
Bainbridge, L. (1983). Ironies of automation. Automatica, 19(6), 775-779.
Abstract This paper discusses the ways in which automation of industrial processes may expand rather than eliminate problems with the human operator. Some comments will be made on methods of alleviating these problems within the ‘classic’ approach of...
Flemisch et al, “Towards a dynamic balance between humans and automation: authority, ability, responsibility and control in shared and cooperative control situations”, Cogn Tech Work (2012) 14:3–18
Abstract: Progress enables the creation of more automated and intelligent machines with increasing abilities that open up new roles between humans and machines. Only with a proper design for the resulting cooperative human–machine systems, these...
Gibson, H. (2016). Industry Human Factors SPAD Review: Project Summary Report. London: RSSB.
https://www.sparkrail.org/Lists/Records/DispForm.aspx?ID=22779
Read, G.J.M, Shorrock, S., Walker, G.H., Salmon P.M., 2021. State of science: evolving perspectives on ‘human error’. Ergonomics 64, 9, 1091-1114.
Abstract: This paper reviews the key perspectives on human error and analyses the core theories and methods developed and applied over the last 60 years. These theories and methods have sought to improve our understanding of what human error is, and how...
Reason, J. (1997) Managing the risk of organisational accidents. Ashgate: Farnham.
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781315543543/managing-risks-organizational-accidents-james-reason
Bowler, N.; Gibson, H. (2015) “Fatigue and Its Contributions to Railway Incidents”
Abstract: This report analyzes a sample of 246 British railroad incidents using data from the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) Safety Management Information System (SMIS) and Incident Factor Classification System (IFCS). Trends in fatigue-related...
Pheasant, S. and Haslegrave, C.M. (2018) Bodyspace: Anthropometry, Ergonomics and the Design of Work. CRC Press.
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.1201/9781315375212/bodyspace-christine-haslegrave-stephen-pheasant
Flin. R (2013) “The Power of Behaviour: Non-Technical Skills”
https://www.veiligheidskunde.nl/stream/congres2013p-jan-de-kroes-lecture-the-power-of-behaviour-non-technical-skills-door-rhona-flin
Reason, 2000. Human error: models and management. British Medical Journal, 320, 768-770
https://www.bmj.com/content/320/7237/768?ath_user=efschouston002&ath_ttok=%3CTPEEDaMygDfSrj8WwQ%3E
Branford, K.; Naikar, N.; Hopkins, A. (2011). “Guidelines for AcciMap analysis”. In A. Hopkins (Ed.) Learning from High Reliability Organisations: 193–212
Abstract: This chapter focuses on a systems-based technique for accident analysis, referred to as the AcciMap approach." The technique involves the construction ofa multilayered diagram in which the various causes of an accident are arranged according...
Altabbakh, H, et al (2014), “STAMP – Holistic system safety approach or just another risk model?”, Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, 32: 109–119
Abstract: Risk management has a number of accident causation models that have been used for a number of years. Dr. Nancy Leveson (2002) has developed a new model of accidents using a systems approach. The new model is called Systems Theoretic Accident...
Accou, B. and Carpinelli, F. (2022) “Systematically investigating human and organisational factors in complex socio-technical systems by using the “SAfety FRactal ANalysis” method” Applied Ergonomics Volume 100
Abstract: In order to manage the performance of socio-technical systems in a safe and sustainable way, the importance of looking at human and organisational factors (HOF) and their contribution to adverse events is widely recognised. In reality,...
Crescencio. A, Martinez. O, Alban Millan. R (2022), “Human error analysis at Valencia railway operation control. Training proposal aimed at reducing human error”
Abstract: The objective of this paper is to present the human factors training methodology in Adif and its theoretical bases. This methodology represents a different way of understanding safety, more focused on what to do and what to know than how to do...
Hopkins, A. (2006), “Studying organisational cultures and their effects on safety” Safety Science 44 875–889
Studying organisational cultures and their effects on safety Abstract: How do organisational cultures influence safety? To answer this question requires a strategy for investigating organisational culture. By far the most widely used research strategy...
Swuste, P.; van Gulijk, C.; Groeneweg, J.; Zwaard, W.; Lemkowitz, S.; Guldenmund, F. (2020), From clapham junction to macondo, deepwater horizon: Risk and safety management in high-tech-high-hazard sectors A review of English and Dutch literature: 1988–2010, Safety Science, Volume 121, Pages 249-282.
Abstract: Objective: What is the influence of general management trends and safety research on managing safety? Method: A literature study which is limited to original English and Dutch books, documents, and articles in relevant scientific journals, for...
Rolina. G, Accou. B (2019), “Towards the European Railway Safety Culture Model”, WCRR 2019, Tokyo
Towards the European Railway Safety Culture Model Abstract In 2017, the European Union Agency for Railways launched an ambitious programme to foster the development of a positive safety culture across European railways. The programme includes the design...
Hesketh, S. (2015) – RSSB – Safety culture and behavioural development: Common factors for creating a culture of continuous improvement
https://www.sparkrail.org/Lists/Records/DispForm.aspx?ID=22292 Abstract: The aim of this guide is to provide practical information and advice on how to create a culture of continuous safety improvement and to reduce duplication of effort and resources...
Automation Myth Busting Paper#2 The Changing Role of Staff in Automated Railway Operation and why Human Cognition is Here to Stay
Automated mainline railway operation is challenging the traditional role of the operational staff ensuring safe and punctual service. Nevertheless, there are sound operational, economic, regulatory and societal reasons for valuing and maintaining central contributions of human staff to railway operation in future automated service. Instead of a linear transferal of tasks from the human to the automation technology a human-machine collaboration setting becomes apparent that enables both, automation-driven benefits in terms of capacity or energy consumption and benefits in terms of efficient human intervention in case of operational uncertainty, where human decision-making and communication skills are key to safety.
Automation Myth Busting Paper#3 Automation and mental workload
Automation paradoxically has the potential to both increase and decrease mental workload, depending on the circumstances. Furthermore, decreasing workload can actually put an operator into an underload state, which is just as bad for performance as overload. We have learned these lessons in the aviation and, more recently, automotive industries; as accident reports demonstrate, we are now starting to see their impact on the railway with the introduction of Automatic Train Operation and other automated systems. The key in helping an operator to work at their best is to find a way to optimise their mental workload – which may mean thinking differently about automation.
Automation Myth Busting Paper#4 Teaming between humans and automation
Due to technological advances, automation is nowadays no longer regarded only as a tool for humans but, due to the execution of complex tasks, is increasingly discussed in terms of a team member. This article describes how successful teaming can optimally be realized so that the strengths of the human operator and the automation are brought to bear. The decisive factor is a human-centred work design that focuses on the needs of human operators. An example from air traffic control is used and findings are transferred to the handling of existing interlocking technologies in the rail industry. First tendencies of teamwork between signallers and automation are already emerging today. In the future, this new form of teamwork can be further developed with the help of the introduced model on the key aspects for a successful teaming between humans and automation.
Mühl, K. (2021). Automated Railway – Operation as Usual: Best Practice to Achieve Situational Awareness. Automation myth busting series
Abstract This article aims to provide insights into achieving situational awareness as a basis for safe automated railway operations. Automation in rail transport has a significant influence on employees' situational awareness (perception, understanding...
Bainbridge, L. (1983). Ironies of automation. Automatica, 19(6), 775-779.
Abstract This paper discusses the ways in which automation of industrial processes may expand rather than eliminate problems with the human operator. Some comments will be made on methods of alleviating these problems within the ‘classic’ approach of...
Flemisch et al, “Towards a dynamic balance between humans and automation: authority, ability, responsibility and control in shared and cooperative control situations”, Cogn Tech Work (2012) 14:3–18
Abstract: Progress enables the creation of more automated and intelligent machines with increasing abilities that open up new roles between humans and machines. Only with a proper design for the resulting cooperative human–machine systems, these...
Gibson, H. (2016). Industry Human Factors SPAD Review: Project Summary Report. London: RSSB.
https://www.sparkrail.org/Lists/Records/DispForm.aspx?ID=22779
Read, G.J.M, Shorrock, S., Walker, G.H., Salmon P.M., 2021. State of science: evolving perspectives on ‘human error’. Ergonomics 64, 9, 1091-1114.
Abstract: This paper reviews the key perspectives on human error and analyses the core theories and methods developed and applied over the last 60 years. These theories and methods have sought to improve our understanding of what human error is, and how...
Reason, J. (1997) Managing the risk of organisational accidents. Ashgate: Farnham.
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781315543543/managing-risks-organizational-accidents-james-reason
Bowler, N.; Gibson, H. (2015) “Fatigue and Its Contributions to Railway Incidents”
Abstract: This report analyzes a sample of 246 British railroad incidents using data from the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) Safety Management Information System (SMIS) and Incident Factor Classification System (IFCS). Trends in fatigue-related...
Pheasant, S. and Haslegrave, C.M. (2018) Bodyspace: Anthropometry, Ergonomics and the Design of Work. CRC Press.
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.1201/9781315375212/bodyspace-christine-haslegrave-stephen-pheasant
Flin. R (2013) “The Power of Behaviour: Non-Technical Skills”
https://www.veiligheidskunde.nl/stream/congres2013p-jan-de-kroes-lecture-the-power-of-behaviour-non-technical-skills-door-rhona-flin
Reason, 2000. Human error: models and management. British Medical Journal, 320, 768-770
https://www.bmj.com/content/320/7237/768?ath_user=efschouston002&ath_ttok=%3CTPEEDaMygDfSrj8WwQ%3E
Branford, K.; Naikar, N.; Hopkins, A. (2011). “Guidelines for AcciMap analysis”. In A. Hopkins (Ed.) Learning from High Reliability Organisations: 193–212
Abstract: This chapter focuses on a systems-based technique for accident analysis, referred to as the AcciMap approach." The technique involves the construction ofa multilayered diagram in which the various causes of an accident are arranged according...
Altabbakh, H, et al (2014), “STAMP – Holistic system safety approach or just another risk model?”, Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, 32: 109–119
Abstract: Risk management has a number of accident causation models that have been used for a number of years. Dr. Nancy Leveson (2002) has developed a new model of accidents using a systems approach. The new model is called Systems Theoretic Accident...
Accou, B. and Carpinelli, F. (2022) “Systematically investigating human and organisational factors in complex socio-technical systems by using the “SAfety FRactal ANalysis” method” Applied Ergonomics Volume 100
Abstract: In order to manage the performance of socio-technical systems in a safe and sustainable way, the importance of looking at human and organisational factors (HOF) and their contribution to adverse events is widely recognised. In reality,...
Crescencio. A, Martinez. O, Alban Millan. R (2022), “Human error analysis at Valencia railway operation control. Training proposal aimed at reducing human error”
Abstract: The objective of this paper is to present the human factors training methodology in Adif and its theoretical bases. This methodology represents a different way of understanding safety, more focused on what to do and what to know than how to do...
Hopkins, A. (2006), “Studying organisational cultures and their effects on safety” Safety Science 44 875–889
Studying organisational cultures and their effects on safety Abstract: How do organisational cultures influence safety? To answer this question requires a strategy for investigating organisational culture. By far the most widely used research strategy...
Swuste, P.; van Gulijk, C.; Groeneweg, J.; Zwaard, W.; Lemkowitz, S.; Guldenmund, F. (2020), From clapham junction to macondo, deepwater horizon: Risk and safety management in high-tech-high-hazard sectors A review of English and Dutch literature: 1988–2010, Safety Science, Volume 121, Pages 249-282.
Abstract: Objective: What is the influence of general management trends and safety research on managing safety? Method: A literature study which is limited to original English and Dutch books, documents, and articles in relevant scientific journals, for...
Rolina. G, Accou. B (2019), “Towards the European Railway Safety Culture Model”, WCRR 2019, Tokyo
Towards the European Railway Safety Culture Model Abstract In 2017, the European Union Agency for Railways launched an ambitious programme to foster the development of a positive safety culture across European railways. The programme includes the design...
Hesketh, S. (2015) – RSSB – Safety culture and behavioural development: Common factors for creating a culture of continuous improvement
https://www.sparkrail.org/Lists/Records/DispForm.aspx?ID=22292 Abstract: The aim of this guide is to provide practical information and advice on how to create a culture of continuous safety improvement and to reduce duplication of effort and resources...
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