What human factors approach is critical for improving safety after an accident?

The correct approach for improving safety after an accident is to focus on understanding human performance issues. This perspective recognizes that human factors—such as decision-making, situational awareness, communication, and fatigue—play a critical role in aviation safety. By analyzing these aspects, aviation professionals can identify the contributing factors leading to the accident, including how human behavior and interactions may have influenced the situation.

Understanding human performance involves looking at how humans operate under various conditions and how they interact with technology and their environment. This insight can lead to the development of better training programs, more effective communication practices, improved cockpit designs, and organizational strategies that enhance safety.

The importance of this approach lies in its holistic view of accidents, acknowledging that safety is not solely the result of technical proficiency or adherence to regulations. It integrates a comprehensive understanding of human factors, leading to more effective and sustainable safety improvements in the aviation industry.