Page 53 - Root Cause Failure Analysis

44 Root Cause Failure Analysis

the lack of skill or training of the supervisor. Cross-check any potential problems that
may be attributed to this category to ensure proper identification of the root cause.

Communications
Communication failure is another major category that contributes to plant problems.
Figure 3-12 provides the typical causes for communications-related problems.

Any problem that may be attributed to one or more of these categories should be
cross-referenced to the sections on Poor Operating Practices and Procedures and
Management Systems to ensure the correct cause is identified.

Human Engineering
Deficiencies in this category are not as visible as some of the others, but they contnb-
ute to many plant problems. These causes, which are shown in Figure 3-13, are pri-
marily the result of poor workplace design and errors in work flow.

Worker-Machine Integace
-
The layout of instrument panels, controls, workstations, and other equipment has a
direct impact on plant performance. For example, when the workstation design forces
an employee to constantly twist, bend, or stoop, the potential for injury, error due to
fatigue, or loss of product quality is substantially increased. A properly designed
workstation can help eliminate potential problems.
v

COMMUNICATIONS

Turnover

m epeat back not

communications

Figure 3-12 Common causes of communica&ions problems.