Human Factors Topic: TRAINING

Why is the topic of training important?

Training is condensed experience, imparting skills and knowledge without the risk and hazards of learning by trial and error.

While many companies have focused on expensive simulators for training, the Center has worked with researchers to develop scenario-based training that are much more cost effective and easy to implement. We are also focusing on the important role that training curriculum plays in improving performance.

KEY QUESTIONS/ISSUES FACING INDUSTRY TODAY

• How does qualifying for several jobs impact skill level? How often is refresher needed?
• In quantifiable measures, how much improvement does a dynamic simulator make in operator performance? How does fidelity impact?
• Can operators be taught to be critical thinkers?
• What is the training frequency for critical skills?
• What is the optimal training curriculum?
• Can expert teams be taught?
• How much faster can an operator who already knows one job learn another?
• What is most effective in terms of cross training dedicated console operators versus those that rotate to the field?

Do you have a question or hot button issue that isn’t on our list?
We’d like to hear from you so send us an email with your concerns and suggestions.

MORE INFORMATION

• Review the Completed Projects and Current Work of the Center on ways to enhance operator performance. Members can access project reports in the Members-Only Section.
• Plants Grapple with Graying Staff Retaining expertise and know-how remains a crucial issue
  Author: Seán Ottewell
  Publication: Chemical Processing, July 29, 2015, Access: Article
• Operator Training Gains Ground
  Initiatives build on established methods as well as emerging technology
  Author: Seán Ottewell
  Publication: Chemical Processing, June 2011, Access Article
• Control Systems, Oh, No…Not Again!
  The Process Industries Have Been Faced with a Continuing Series of Refinery, Chemical Plant, Mining and Even Food Plant Disasters. These Continue to Happen with Distressing Regularity. Who’s at Fault? It’s the Culture, Not the Control Systems.
  Author: Walt Boyes
  Publication: ControlGlobal.com, April 2010, Access Article
• Build Operator Expertise Faster
  Following a few do’s and don’t can significantly speed learning.
  Authors: David A. Strobhar, Beville Engineering, and Danyele Harris-Thompson, Klein Associates
  Publication: Chemical Processing, December 2009, Access Article
• How Good is Your Operator’s Mental Model?
  Author: Martin Berutti, December 2009, Access Mynah Website Article
• Operators Get More Help
  Efforts aim to provide insights and tools to boost performance.
  Author: Seán Ottewell
  Publication: Chemical Processing, January 2009, Access Article
• Improving Human Effectiveness
  Publication: Automation World, October 2007, Access Article