Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What analytical technique is specifically designed for predicting human error?

1. HAZOP

2. THERP

3. FMEA

4. FTA

The correct answer is: THERP

THERP, which stands for Technique for Human Error Rate Prediction, is specifically designed for the purpose of predicting human errors in various systems. This analytical technique provides a structured approach to identify and quantify the potential for human errors during the operations or tasks related to a system. It uses a combination of past data and scenario analysis to forecast how likely human errors are to occur based on different variables such as task complexity, environmental factors, and operator capabilities. Unlike other techniques listed, THERP is focused on evaluating human behavior and the potential for error, making it distinct in its application. HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study) primarily focuses on process hazards and operational issues, while FMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis) is used to evaluate the effects of potential failures in systems or processes, but does not center specifically on human behavior. Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) is a deductive method used to analyze the causes of undesirable events but not specifically aimed at predicting human errors. Therefore, THERP stands out as the most relevant technique for predicting human error.