The interaction between people and machines is more complex than it seems. Behind every decision, movement, or task, there are physical, physiological, and social aspects that together make up what we call human factors. In the oil and gas industry, understanding these factors is essential to ensure safety and operational excellence. They not only influence the performance of workers but also the work environment as a whole.

The relevance of human factors in the oil and gas industry cannot be underestimated. Studies show that most accidents and incidents are related to human errors. Therefore, integrating human factors into operations can significantly reduce risks and improve efficiency.

Throughout this article, we will explore how integrating human factors can transform the oil and gas industry, promoting a safer and more efficient work environment.

What are human factors?

The concept of human factors emerged in the aviation industry after World War II, when complex and high-responsibility operations showed that human errors played a significant role in air accidents. This concept seeks to optimize human performance, promoting safety and efficiency, and quickly demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing operational errors.

According to Josué Maia, a professor and engineer with a post-doctorate in Human Factors in Safety Training, human factors are a dynamic set of elements that interact with each other, blending individual, organizational, technological, and environmental aspects, as well as others that may arise.

In other words, human factors encompass a variety of characteristics that influence people's interaction with the environment around them, especially in complex contexts such as the oil and gas industry. According to Josué, these factors can be classified into four main categories:

• Organizational factors: Leadership, culture, policies and rules, risk management, planning, and resources;
• Technological factors: Interface design, software, workplace layout, maintenance, and design;
• Environmental factors: Lighting, temperature, noise, humidity, vibration, and weather;
• Individual factors: Competence, attitude, teamwork, experience, stress, and diversity.

Some examples of human factors that directly impact operations in the oil and gas industry include:

• Worker fatigue, which can lead to errors of judgment;
• Poor communication between teams, resulting in misunderstandings;
• Inadequate working conditions, which can affect efficiency and safety.

Human factors characteristics

To ensure safe and efficient operations in the oil and gas industry, it is essential to understand the characteristics of human factors. These aspects directly impact the interaction of workers with systems and equipment. Next, we will explore these characteristics in detail.

Physical characteristics

Ergonomics takes a close look at how workers interact with their environment. This approach ensures that working conditions are adjusted to improve and facilitate the performance of tasks.

An ergonomically correct working environment can:

• Reduce the incidence of repetitive strain injuries;
• Increase productivity by allowing workers to operate more comfortably;
• Improve job satisfaction, resulting in lower employee turnover.

Physiological characteristics

Physiological characteristics refer to the state of health and well-being of workers, factors that should be considered fundamental values and can impact all aspects of the work environment.

When workers are healthy:

• Concentration improves, reducing errors and increasing safety;
• Resistance to stress is strengthened, favoring a more harmonious working environment;
• Decisions become faster and more accurate, as employees feel more focused and motivated.

On the other hand, chronic stress can result in:

• Errors of judgment;
• Interpersonal conflicts;
• Physical and mental exhaustion.

Social factors

Social factors are equally important in oil and gas industry operations. The dynamics between team members and effective communication can be decisive in preventing accidents.

Clear and open communication between team members is essential:

• Reduce misunderstandings;
• Facilitate problem solving;
• Increase group cohesion and team morale.

Collaboration between team members, on the other hand, can:

• Improve decision-making;
• Foster a supportive environment;
• Reduce the risk of accidents through greater vigilance and mutual support.

The importance of safety in the oil and gas industry

Safety in the oil and gas industry is a primary concern due to the intrinsically risky nature of the operations, which require constant attention and strict protocols to avoid accidents. As a result, the adoption of preventive measures and the strengthening of safety awareness are essential to protect everyone involved.

Human factors and safety culture

A robust safety culture is fundamental to mitigating risks and promoting safety in operations. The relationship between human factors and safety culture can be summarized as follows:

• Awareness and training: Equipping workers with knowledge about safety and human factors is of utmost importance. Continuous training programs should be implemented to ensure that everyone understands the importance of their contribution to safety;
• Open communication: Promoting an environment where workers feel comfortable reporting concerns is essential. This can help identify risks before they become serious problems;
• Feedback and continuous improvement: The safety culture should include a feedback loop where safety outcomes are analyzed and used for continuous improvements. Learning from past mistakes is essential for progress.

Investing in safety is not only an ethical responsibility, but also an economic imperative. Protecting workers and reducing accidents can result in substantial savings and a positive reputation for companies in the sector.

Training and development strategies

In the oil and gas industry, where risks are high and operations are complex, investing in training and development is crucial to equip the team with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and manage risks.

Integrating training centered on human factors is crucial for several reasons:

• Accident reduction: By empowering workers to recognize and respond to hazardous situations, it is possible to significantly reduce the number of accidents;
• Increased efficiency: Well-structured training helps operators become familiar with equipment and processes, resulting in more agile and efficient operations;
• Improved communication: Training that emphasizes the importance of communication and teamwork fosters a collaborative environment, essential for safety and operational effectiveness.

Technical note related to human factors

In January 2024, the ANP (Agência Nacional de Petróleo) released the Tecnical Note No. 10 related to operational safety in the oil and gas sector. The main objective of the regulation is to raise awareness among companies in the oil and gas sector about the importance of using the industry's best international practices.

A practical example involves ergonomic standards, which should be tailored to the physical and cognitive capabilities of the workers operating them. This way, it is possible to minimize the risk of accidents through simple adjustments to these elements.

To learn more, access the technical note on the Resolutions and Procedures page, under the "Current Procedures" item.

Conclusion

Throughout this article, we have discussed the significant influence of human factors on safety and operational excellence in the oil and gas industry. The interaction between physical, physiological and social characteristics directly impacts the effectiveness of operations and the safety of workers.

It is important to highlight some basic principles of human factors, such as:

• Equipment and procedures can influence the human and working environment of the employee;
• People, equipment, procedures and the environment do not exist in isolation - so they must be thought of as a whole;
• Each individual in your industry has different capabilities and limitations - it's up to good leadership to get the best out of each employee;
• People are not the problem - they are the solution.

Moreover, it is essential to reflect on the future of human factors in the oil and gas industry. With the advancement of technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation, the need for adaptation and innovation is greater than ever. New methodologies and tools must be developed to integrate human factors more efficiently, ensuring that safety remains a priority.

Finally, considering human factors is not just a risk mitigation strategy; it is an opportunity to promote a safer, more productive and innovative working environment.

<h2>About ALTAVE</h2>

ALTAVE is a Brazilian company, accredited as a Strategic Defense Company (EED), with patented technology in Brazil and abroad. The company has obtained CE marking, indicating the approval of its product quality to be marketed throughout the European Union.

ALTAVE has been offering efficient, differentiated and quality solutions for over 10 years for the Defense and Security, Energy, Mining, Ports, Agribusiness and Oil and Gas sectors.

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