SH168: What Is A Mistake? What Is An Error? Words Have Meanings. Counter-Errorism In Diving: Applying Human Factors To Diving podcast

19:53

The first-ever Human Factors in Diving Conference, held on September 24-25, 2021, brought together 27 speakers from around the world to explore the application of human factors, non-technical skills, Just Culture, and psychological safety in diving. Spanning nearly 25 hours of content over two days, the event showcased a global virtual conference model using the LexGo Live platform, with a focus on interactive and engaging experiences. Despite challenges with ticket sales, tight deadlines, and technical logistics, the conference provided invaluable insights and demonstrated the potential of human factors to enhance safety across recreational, military, commercial, and public safety diving. The event highlighted both the successes and lessons learned, paving the way for future efforts to bring this critical knowledge to the diving community. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/acorn-to-conference Links: Conference website: https://www.hf-in-diving-conference.com/ Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thehumandiver863 LexGo platform: https://www.lexgo.work/ Marketing advisors: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosconkie/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickeywilsonfirestarter/ Tags: English, Gareth Lock, Human Factors…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH169: “The root cause of an accident is our imagination” 11:04

5 days ago11:04

11:04

Accidents in diving, and life, rarely stem from a single "root cause" but rather from a complex interplay of factors—technical skills, context, randomness, and non-technical skills like communication and decision-making. This episode explores how cognitive biases, such as the fundamental attribution error, often lead us to blame individuals rather than considering the broader system in which events unfold. Drawing parallels from diving, surgery, and other high-stakes environments, we discuss the importance of understanding the full context, embracing feedback, and focusing on interdependencies to improve safety and outcomes. Tune in to challenge your assumptions and expand your perspective on risk and decision-making. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-root-cause-of-an-accident Links: Fundamental attribution bias: https://gue.com/blog/the-role-of-agency-when-discussing-diving-incidents-an-adverse-event-occurs-an-instructor-makes-a-mistake/ The rise of human factors paper: https://europepmc.org/article/med/31183182#free-full-text Tags: English, Gareth Lock, Incident Investigation, Investigations…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH168: What is a mistake? What is an error? Words have meanings. 11:04

9 days ago11:04

11:04

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH167: Only 20% of surgeons would like to use a checklist in their operations… 7:56

12 days ago7:56

7:56

In this episode, Gareth Lock explores the critical role of checklists in enhancing safety and reducing errors in high-risk environments like diving, surgery, and aviation. Drawing insights from Atul Gawande's The Checklist Manifesto , Gareth highlights how properly designed checklists can prevent lapses, improve communication, and establish a culture of accountability. Despite resistance from those who view checklists as unnecessary or a sign of weakness, evidence shows their ability to save lives by addressing "unknown unknowns" and mitigating human error. Gareth shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of embracing checklists to ensure safety, reliability, and performance in diving and beyond. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/surgeons-and-checklists Links: Downloads and Transcripts of Atul Gawande’s lectures: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00729d9/episodes/player The problem with not using checklists: http://aerossurance.com/helicopters/habits-kill/ The Checklist manifesto: https://cognitasresearch.wordpress.com/2015/01/17/only-20-of-surgeons-would-like-to-use-a-checklist-in-their-operations/0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E NHS checklist: http://www.nrls.npsa.nhs.uk/resources/?entryid45=59860 DAN study: http://www.alertdiver.com/checklists Checklist design: http://ti.arc.nasa.gov/profile/adegani/procedure-design/ Chain of events of things going wrong (1): http://silentdiversion.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/human-error-dont-blame-rebreather.html?spref=fb&m=1 (2): https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2018/06/05/navy-officer-35-dies-in-off-duty-diving-mishap/ Tags: English, Checklists, Gareth Lock, Human Factors…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH166: You can’t run before you can walk... 4:56

16 days ago4:56

4:56

In this episode, Bart Den Ouden reflects on the importance of mastering the basics before taking on advanced challenges, using ice diving as a vivid example. During a rare opportunity for ice diving in the Netherlands, Bart observed several instructors rushing into instructor-level ice diving certifications without adequate experience. Drawing parallels with the Dunning-Kruger effect and highlighting the risks of "unknown unknowns," he emphasizes the dangers of overconfidence and taking shortcuts in training. Bart challenges dive professionals to lead by example, prioritize safety, and ensure they truly earn their certifications, reminding us all to slow down and build skills step by step. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/run-before-walk Links: Micheal Thomas’ blog for TDI: https://www.tdisdi.com/tdi-diver-news/slow-down-young-fella-attitudes-in-technical-diving/ Dunning Kruger effect: https://vimeo.com/223029249 Tags: English, Bart Den Ouden, Decision Making, Instruction, Leadership…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH165: “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.” Or can you..? 7:45

19 days ago7:45

7:45

In this episode, we explore the critical role of leadership and decision-making in diving safety, using a real-life story about a young instructor, “Jack,” who made a risky dive on a rebreather he wasn’t certified to use. Despite his confidence, Jack’s actions reflect dangerous cognitive biases like overconfidence, outcome bias, and normalization of deviance, shaped by a culture of cutting corners in his early training. Through this cautionary tale, we highlight the importance of setting the right example as dive leaders, understanding the consequences of our actions, and promoting a safety-first mindset. Tune in to learn why responsible leadership and listening to feedback are vital for creating a safer diving community. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/lead-a-horse-to-water Tags: English, Bart Den Ouden, Decision Making, Situation Awareness…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH164: Plan to fail safely – Part 2: Passing the test doesn’t say it all 10:33

23 days ago10:33

10:33

In this episode, we explore how listening to your inner voice can be a lifesaver, both in diving and everyday life. Bart Den Ouden shares his personal journey of uncovering severe heart issues despite passing regular diving medicals, emphasizing the importance of recognizing warning signs and overcoming cognitive biases like denial and confirmation bias. We also discuss a diver’s near-fatal experience with immersion pulmonary edema (IPO) and how quick action and a well-equipped facility saved their life. These stories highlight the critical role of self-awareness, preventative measures, and teamwork in planning to fail safely—whether under water or on land. Listen in to learn why trusting that “little voice” could be the key to staying alive. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/plan-to-fail-safely-part-2-passing-the-test-doesn-t-say-it-all Links: Angioplasty and Stent: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronary-angioplasty/what-happens/ HSE Medical requirements: https://www.hse.gov.uk/diving/medical-requirements.htm IPO (IPE): http://www.ukdmc.org/medical-conditions/immersion-pulmonary-oedema/ BMJ article: https://heart.bmj.com/content/80/6/537 DAN article: https://www.diversalertnetwork.org/health/heart/cardiac-health Tags: English, Bart Den Ouden, Cognitive Biases, Decision Making, Medical…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH163: Who owns the risk in diving when something goes wrong? 11:47

26 days ago11:47

11:47

In this episode, we delve into risk management and decision-making in diving, exploring the difference between personal and professional responsibilities. Using a case of a divemaster tasked with guiding divers on a challenging wreck dive, we examine the complexities of managing hazards, understanding acceptable risks, and the impact of assumptions and biases. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, critical thinking, and a proactive approach to safety, while acknowledging the challenges of balancing rules with real-world scenarios. Ultimately, we discuss how diving professionals can navigate these grey areas, fostering safer practices while maintaining the adventurous spirit of diving. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/who-owns-the-risk-in-diving Links: HSE Terms: https://www.hse.gov.uk/managing/theory/alarpglance.htm Normalisation of Deviance video: https://vimeo.com/174875861 Work as Imagined vs Work as Done: https://humanisticsystems.com/2016/12/05/the-varieties-of-human-work/ Tags: English, Decision Making, Gareth Lock, Risk, Risk Management…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH162: Plan to fail safely - teaching students/candidates for the real world 5:43

4 weeks ago5:43

5:43

In this episode, we explore the importance of preparing for failure in diving education, inspired by Hal Watts' quote: “The most dangerous thing about diving is divers themselves.” Using a real-life example from a scuba Instructor Examination, we highlight how training focused solely on passing exams can lead to complacency and poor decision-making in real-life scenarios. Diving instructors and trainers must teach students to plan for and respond to unexpected challenges safely. This involves reflecting on training methods, addressing blind spots, and fostering a mindset where failure becomes a learning opportunity, not a life-threatening event. Part 2 will delve deeper into personal strategies for planning to fail safely. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/plan-to-fail-safely Tags: English, Dart Den Ouden, Instruction, Leadership…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH161: ‘One mistake and you are dead’ – isn’t how accidents normally happen 7:56

5 weeks ago7:56

7:56

In this episode, we explore the dangers of "normalisation of deviance"—the gradual erosion of safety standards through repeated shortcuts—and its impact on rebreather diving and other high-risk activities. Drawing on lessons from aviation and diving, we discuss how human factors, cognitive biases, and systemic drift contribute to accidents, emphasizing that outcomes should not be the sole focus when analyzing incidents. Using models like the Swiss Cheese Model and concepts of systems thinking, we unpack how multiple, seemingly minor factors can align to create critical incidents. Learn how applying tools like checklists, audits, and effective debriefs can help mitigate these risks and maintain safety margins in diving and beyond. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/one-mistake Links: “If Only” documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly John Bantin’s Undercurrent article: https://www.undercurrent.org/blog/2020/06/01/the-tragic-and-un-necessary-death-of-brian-bugge/ Debrief model: https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief Normalisation of Deviance: https://vimeo.com/174875861 Simple Swiss cheese model: https://vimeo.com/326723142 Big Hole animation: https://vimeo.com/326723122 Little Hole animation: https://vimeo.com/326723109 HSE report: https://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr871.pdf Tags: English. CCR, Complacency, Decision Making, Gareth Lock, Human Factors, Rebreather…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH160: Outcomes are so sexy and attractive… 5:14

5 weeks ago5:14

5:14

This episode dives into the critical role of human factors in safety, using a tragic aviation incident and its parallels in diving to illustrate how distractions, pressures, and systemic issues contribute to accidents. We explore how a Royal Air Force training film, "Distractions," highlighted the cumulative factors behind a hypothetical crash, emphasizing the need for shared responsibility in preventing errors. Similarly, the story of Brian Bugge's 2018 diving accident reveals the dangers of focusing solely on individual mistakes while overlooking the broader contributing factors. Accidents rarely result from a single error but emerge from a combination of conditions. By understanding these dynamics, we can better mitigate risks and improve safety in both aviation and diving. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/outcomes-are-so-sexy Links: “If Only” Documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly Tags: English, CCR, Checklists, Decision Making, Gareth Lock, If Only, Investigations, Rebreather…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH159: The best is the enemy of the good 3:28

6 weeks ago3:28

3:28

In this episode, a newly qualified Human Factors in Diving Instructor shares their journey of grappling with impostor syndrome and the challenges of teaching human factors to divers. Despite over a decade of diving instruction experience, they recount feeling inadequate compared to peers and doubting their knowledge, especially when students might view human factors as "common sense." Reflecting on the Dunning-Kruger effect, they explore how experts often underestimate their abilities because they understand the vastness of their field. Through conversations with peers and self-reflection, they learn to embrace the value they bring to the classroom and the importance of fostering curiosity in their students. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-best-is-the-enemy-of-the-good Tags: English, Communications, Jenny Lord, Leadership, Teamwork…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH158: Predictive Profiling & diving: “what deviates, deserves attention!” 8:38

6 weeks ago8:38

8:38

This episode dives into the critical importance of recognizing deviations from the norm in diving, a concept rooted in situational awareness. Inspired by the 1972 attack at Lod Airport, Bart den Ouden draws parallels between how assumptions can blind us and the role of training and experience in diving. By understanding what “normal” looks like, divers can detect and respond to unexpected changes. We explore mental models, decision-making under pressure, and the value of learning skills the right way to build a strong foundation. Tune in to learn why paying attention to the small details can make all the difference underwater! Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/predicitive-profiling Links: Situational Awareness and Decision Making in Diving: https://gue.com/blog/situational-awareness-and-decision-making-in-diving/?fbclid=IwAR1Pq5eqIxWxcc0s1S2CoYefJgkWeXy_pUi8AsjQ8BoKSx-xKKXrLTPqleQ Tags: English, Bart Den Ouden, Decision Making…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH157: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly! 8:12

7 weeks ago8:12

8:12

In this episode, we explore the pitfalls of blindly trusting technology through two cautionary tales—one about a GPS mishap in snowy Quebec and another about divers relying solely on their computers. Automation offers precision and convenience, but over-reliance can dull our awareness and problem-solving skills. We discuss how this applies to diving, where dive computers are invaluable but prone to errors if misconfigured or when they fail. Listeners will learn why it’s essential to combine technology with old-school skills, planning, and situational awareness to ensure safety. Embrace technology, but always have a backup plan! Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-good-the-bad-the-ugly Tags: English, Decision Making, Helene Pellerin, Situational Awareness…

Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

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SH156: CCR pre-dive checks and checklists are not always enough to prevent an equipment-based accident! 10:49

7 weeks ago10:49