What are the categories of errors that Professor James Reason identifies for aircraft mechanics?

Professor James Reason is renowned for his contributions to understanding human error within complex systems, particularly in the context of aviation safety. He categorizes errors that can occur in tasks performed by aircraft mechanics into three specific types: violations, mistakes, and slips.

Violations refer to intentional deviations from established procedures or protocols. This may involve a mechanic bypassing safety checks or established methods for the sake of expediency.

Mistakes involve incorrect decisions made in the planning or execution of tasks. This can happen when a mechanic misinterprets data or lacks sufficient information, leading to an erroneous action based on an incorrect judgment.

Slips occur when the individual has the capability to perform a task correctly but fails to do so due to oversight or lack of attention. For example, a mechanic might perform a task correctly most of the time but forget a crucial step during a busy workday.

Understanding these categories helps in designing better training and error management systems that target the specific nature of the human errors that may arise during aircraft maintenance and operation.