European conference on cognitive ergonomics

Traditionally Ergonomics is known as “fitting systems to humans” which translates out to using tools, equipment, tasks and environments to suit certain human cognitive abilities and take into account human limitations. To simply this we only have to look at an example such as designing a keyboard that maximizes our ability to type accurately and at speed or creating the ultimate race car that fits a driver. The goal of cognitive ergonomics is to limit human error when dealing with often complex machines and user interfaces.
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Almost 50 students were divided in to 4 groups and asked to participate in three tests to measure the effectiveness of a low cost NVG training simulator. The tests were comprised mostly of image testing and object recognition. The studies showed that a Night Vision Goggle simulator was a viable option for NVG testing compared to the expensive NVG units themselves. The digital images in the simulator were promising and accurate enough for training situations.

The military has thrown together 20 participants in a military planning exercise to see what the situation awareness reposed would end up being. Participants were measured based on three different techniques: a freeze probe technique, a post trial subjective rating technique, and a critical incident technique interview approach. Finding suggested that only the first freeze probe or SAGAT technique played a big factor in the statistical analysis. The others had no effect in the outcome of the trials.

The Swedish Accident Investigation Board has found some flaws in the current accident reporting and recommendation systems and is conducting research on how to fix these issues. Three of the investigators have been trying out new techniques with the way accident reporting is conducted. They have been graded on effectiveness using a cost and benefit analysis which seems to be the greatest factor in it all. In the end they report that there should be more emphasis on safety maturity, open lines of communication and the cost / benefit values of each case.