Grounding the Dirty Dozen of Human Errors - Part 1

Aviation safety relies on precision, discipline, and a thorough understanding of human factors. A pivotal tool in promoting this understanding is the concept of The Dirty Dozen. But what is it, and why has it become so integral to aviation safety training?

What is the Dirty Dozen?

The Dirty Dozen refers to 12 common human error preconditions - factors that can contribute to accidents and incidents if left unchecked. These elements serve as a framework to help aviation professionals recognize and mitigate the impact of human error in their daily operations.

The concept was first developed in 1993 by Gordon Dupont during his time at Transport Canada. Initially introduced as part of a Human Performance in Maintenance training program, the Dirty Dozen has since become a global standard for understanding and addressing human factors in aviation. Today, it’s not just limited to maintenance; pilots, cabin crew, air traffic controllers, and ground staff use this model to create safer workplaces and procedures.

Why is it Important?

Human error is a key contributor to most aviation accidents. The Dirty Dozen helps professionals anticipate risks and take proactive measures by identifying the underlying conditions that often lead to mistakes. It’s more than just a list - it’s a mindset that encourages continuous vigilance, communication, and teamwork to secure safe operations.

The Twelve Factors in the Dirty Dozen

Here’s a quick look at the 12 elements that make up the Dirty Dozen. These factors don’t act as stand-alone problems; they often combine to escalate risks.

1. Lack of Communication - Misunderstandings or incomplete information transfer.
2. Distraction - Losing focus due to competing demands or interruptions.
3. Lack of Resources - Insufficient tools, time, or personnel to complete tasks effectively.
4. Stress - Acute or chronic pressure affecting judgment and performance.
5. Complacency - Overconfidence that can lead to overlooking critical details.
6. Lack of Teamwork - Poor collaboration among team members.
7. Pressure - Deadlines or external demands that compromise safety.
8. Lack of Awareness - Failure to see the broader operational picture.
9. Lack of Knowledge - Insufficient training or experience for the task at hand.
10. Fatigue - Physical or mental exhaustion that impacts performance.
11. Lack of Assertiveness - Not voicing concerns or challenging unsafe practices.
12. Norms - Unsafe workplace habits or “the way we do things here” mentality.

The Role of the Dirty Dozen in Human Error Prevention

The Dirty Dozen is more than just acknowledging these factors; it’s about taking action to counter them. Specific countermeasures can be implemented for each element - such as creating clear communication protocols, enforcing teamwork, or providing resources and training. By addressing these issues head-on, aviation professionals reduce the likelihood of errors cascading into serious incidents or accidents.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of our series, where we’ll take a closer look at the first six elements of the Dirty Dozen and explore practical countermeasures to reduce their impact in aviation environments.

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References

FAA Avoid the Dirty Dozen. This flyer is available for download on our public website.