216: Physical Capabilities Issue*

Node Physical Capabilities Issue*

*This node is for descriptive purposes only. Code only to Personnel Performance; Individual Issue (#213).

Definition/Typical Issues

Can the problem be attributed to trouble with inadequate physical coordination or inadequate strength? Was the problem a result of inadequate size or stature of the individual involved? Did other physical limitations (e.g., shaking, poor reaction time) contribute to the problem?

Note 1: The Personnel Performance Issue; Individual Issue (#213) node should only be used when the problem is isolated to one individual. If other personnel have difficulty performing the same task under similar circumstances, then other portions of the Root Cause Map™ should be used to code the issue.

Note 2: There should be management systems in place to detect and correct most (if not all) individual performance issues BEFORE an incident occurs. Therefore, the failure or absence of the management systems should be coded as well.

Note 3: Consider coding under the Personnel Hiring Issue (#209) node because there should be management controls to ensure that employees possess the required job capabilities prior to being hired. Also consider coding under the Supervision During Work Issue (#192) or Detection of Individual Performance Issue (#212) nodes because supervision should detect this problem.

Note 4: Code as Personnel Performance Issue; Individual Issue (#213) only. The 10 nodes beneath Individual Issue (#213) are included to provide the investigator with an understanding of the types of problems that might be categorized as Personnel Performance Issue; Individual Issue (#213). However, the investigator should NOT include these cause nodes in the investigation report.

Examples

Example 1

  • A tank overflowed because the operator could not close the valve. The valve was large and difficult to close. The operator did not have the strength to close the valve. By the time he obtained help in closing it, the tank had overflowed.

Example 2

  • An operator was too short to be able to accurately read a gauge.

Typical Recommendations

  • Ensure that job requirements are complete, including required physical/perceptual capabilities.
  • Provide reasonable accommodations for workers with physical limitations:
    • Is it reasonable for an "average" individual to perform this task?
    • Can the individual be provided with a tool to assist in the task?
    • Can the task be redesigned to reduce the physical requirements?

      Note 1: A review of the human factors engineering (see Human Factors Issue [#146]) for the process is also appropriate.

Cross-References

Version 10 Element(s)
Node ID Node Name
212 Motor/Physical Capabilities LTA

 

Maritime Element(s)
Node ID Node Name
252 Inadequate Motor/Physical Capabilities
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