This paper addresses human and organization errors (HOE) in the context of quantitative reliability analyses (QRA) that are intended to help improve the quality of offshore structures. A classification of HOE is proposed that addresses individual, organization, equipment/hardware, procedures/software, and environmental considerations. A generic process to address the life-cycle quality characteristics of offshore structures incorporating HOE is discussed. Based on these developments, a probability-based risk analysis is developed that addresses HOE in addition to the structure system aspects. Alternatives for improved management of HOE are discussed including quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC), and design of error-tolerant or “robust” structures. Application of the HOE classification, generic assessment process, QRA formulation, and QA/QC measures are illustrated.

Issue Section:
Research Papers
Topics:
Errors, Offshore structures, Reliability, Quality control, Computer software, Cycles, Design, Hardware, Probability, Risk analysis
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