Reduce Errors

HFE aims to minimise errors that can occur during the use of a product, system, or environment.

Use errors can have significant consequences, including injury or harm to the user, damage to the product or system, and loss of productivity. They can also lead to decreased user satisfaction and increased costs for the organization that develops the product or system.

Some examples of use errors include pressing the wrong button, misinterpreting a display, or performing a task in the wrong order.

For example, in the medical field, human factors engineers design medical devices and equipment to be user-friendly and easy to use, in order to reduce the number of errors that might occur in use.

This can include things like clear labelling and intuitive controls, as well as ensuring that the device is easy to clean and maintain.

HFE experts use a range of techniques to minimise use error, such as human reliability analysis, use error identification, and usability testing.