The Dirty Dozen: The Dangers of Not Knowing
This article series sheds light on the 12 most common causes of human error, known as the Dirty Dozen (article 6 of 12).
Knowledge enables us to make better decisions, apply the right procedures, and understand what is going on. Without the proper knowledge, we become ill-prepared to handle situations safely and effectively.
Knowledge is crucial because it is difficult to identify errors in a system if you do not know how the system is supposed to be working. Similarly, you cannot follow a procedure if you are oblivious to its existence.
Read more: Diving into the Dirty Dozen: Limit the Impact and Improve Safety
Obtaining and Enhancing Knowledge
We get our knowledge from various sources. Extensive training, engaging in dialogues with colleagues, written procedures, or manuals. Knowledge, however, is dynamic. Therefore, it is important to continuously update your knowledge. Never work purely from memory. Always make sure to consult the proper sources of information.
In fact, updated knowledge helps reduce the risk of complacency.
There are several things which organisations can do to keep knowledge up to date:
- Conduct regular training to keep the good principles and best practices in check
- Encourage knowledge-sharing between team members to disperse information and share experiences. People with a professional attitude will not hesitate to share information. Keeping knowledge to yourself to appear better will only boost your ego – not help the team.
- Establish easy access to regulations, procedures, and safety programmes
- Foster a just reporting culture where employees can address knowledge concerns and issues with information
Read more: Human Factors in Aviation: The Crucial Role of Training
