Forensics Professional Technical Group

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  • 1.  Wikipedia article

    Posted 15 days ago
    Please post this to the FPTG forum.  I tried to send it yesterday and not sure it got to the right place.  In any event this is an update to replace the one I sent yesterday.

    Hi all 
    I am working on creating a Wikipedia article re Forensic Human Factors and would appreciate your advice and contributions. I plan to define it as "the application of human factors science to identify and explain contributing causes of system failures". Forensic human factors is typically applied to incidences involving personal injury from automobile crashes or slips, trips and falls as well as to investigations into large-scale disasters that involve loss of life or damage to equipment and/or the environment. The principal focus is the role of the human element in the context of interface design, sociotechnical systems and environmental factors as they affect cognition, performance, reactions, decision-making and other behaviors.  

    There will be hyperlinks throughout. I am asking FPTG members to send me content to include in the article. This can include historical milestones, specific references, HFES group information, elaboration of topics, areas of application or anything else you think will help educate readers. 

    Please send me your suggestions 
    Thank you,


    Thank you,
    Ian



  • 2.  RE: Wikipedia article

    Posted 14 days ago

    Hi Ian,


    While I've been working in the field of human factors / ergonomics since 1980, I'm a relative newcomer to the applications to forensics work. I've got about 20 cases under my belt now (mostly analysis and report writing). I've only been deposed once and I'm scheduled for my first court appearance in a few weeks. 
    That said, here are a couple of comments that might support your writing of the Wikipedia page:
    • You mention "... typically applied to incidences involving personal injury from automobile crashes or slips, trips and falls as well as to investigations into large-scale disasters..." I think that may be a bit limiting. In my early HF/E forensics work, I've already had cases related to warning signs, variety of consumer product use (hair care products, scooter, space heater, etc.), an industrial accident, pedestrian accident (crossing street while on cell phone), two bicycle accidents (one hit by motor vehicle, one crash into a structure), a scooter accident, cases involving the design of the instructions for use, and scalds from instant soup. So, as you can see, it has been quite varied--even just across a small sample of cases. I think you should further emphasize the breadth of products and environments where human factors / ergonomics plays a key role in human safety.
    • I always try to use the term "human factors / ergonomics," so as not so separate or even distinguish between the two terms. 
     I hope this is helpful. Thank you for taking this on.
    Keith


    ------------------------------
    Keith Karn PhD
    Principal Consultant
    Narberth PA
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


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