THE FIELD GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING HUMAN ERROR. 3^RD ED. SIDNEY DEKKER.

The field guide to understanding human error provides a comprehensive overview of human error, especially as it applies to safety science within organisations. Its simple easy-to-read style is an effective way to communicate the key concepts that underpin the modern understanding of human error and the contribution of the myriad of factors and external influences that are involved in any accident.

The understanding of human error described in this book has been prevalent in aviation for many years. Aeromedical examiners and specialists in aerospace medicine will be familiar with many of the key concepts. Moreover, aeromedical examiners and specialists in aerospace medicine may have an opportunity to use their knowledge of human error investigation in a safety-centred organisation to promote a modern understanding of human error more broadly in a range of healthcare settings. Healthcare is undergoing an evolution in the understanding of human error and patient safety culture – this text will be an invaluable tool to help aeromedical examiners and specialists in aerospace medicine to promote the understanding of human error within a healthcare setting, and assist with the investigation of safety incidents.

The field guide to understanding human error provides practical steps to assist a human error investigation. Its chapters cover the theories of human error, how to investigate an incident involving human error, how to explain patters of breakdown within an organisation, and how to describe and explain an accident model to others. In addition, chapters cover how to create an effect safety department and build a healthy safety culture within an organisation.

I would heartily recommend The field guide to understanding human error to ASAM members who are interested in broadening their understanding of human error, especially those who are in a position to promote an understanding of human error in the healthcare settings within which they work.