ABSTRACT
There are human factors issues connected with the occurrence of signals passed at danger (SPAD) is well known, but the understanding of these issues in the rail industry is sometimes limited and often based only on subjective opinion. A rational, objective and coherent approach to the investigation of human factors causes of SPADs was therefore needed to create a generic performance-based understanding of human factors, eliminate the need for subjective opinion, and pinpoint the root human factors causes of SPADs. The checklist originates from two main sources of information: a cognitive model of the driver task, and a database of human factors SPAD hazards. Three validation criteria were developed to enable consistent qualification and categorisation of human factors SPAD hazards. Risk reduction measures have been suggested for the majority of hazards, intended to prevent, control or mitigate the effect of a SPAD. The Human Factors SPAD Hazard Checklist brings together an understanding of the driver task and human error.
