According to Dr. James Reason, what are the two types of human failure?

Dr. James Reason's framework distinguishes between two primary types of human failure: active and latent failures.

Active failures are the immediate errors or mistakes made by individuals at the frontline of operations, such as pilots, engineers, or healthcare providers. These are the direct actions that lead to accidents or incidents, often visible and occurring in real-time, such as a miscalculation or a lapse in judgement during critical situations.

Latent failures, on the other hand, refer to underlying organizational factors that create conditions for errors. These can include deficiencies in the systems, policies, or procedures that are not immediately apparent but can set the stage for active failures to occur. Examples of latent failures include inadequate training, poor communication, or flawed safety protocols. These types of failures can remain dormant for long periods before contributing to an incident.

This dual framework is crucial for understanding how to improve safety and performance. By identifying and addressing both active and latent failures, organizations can create more robust systems that minimize the risk of accidents.