Definitions (Physical, Human, and Latent Causes)

When leading an LCA, the Principal Investigator might be working with people that do not know the definitions of Physical, Human, and Latent Causes.  The following definitions are to be adhered-to when doing a Latent Cause Analysis.  It is suggested to enlarge this slide and hang it on the wall of your meeting room for everyone to see. 

The most misunderstood of these definitions are the Human Causes.  Human Causes, as defined by Failsafe, are those actions or inactions that occur at the interface between the human being and the physical system.  People talking with one another, or thinking inappropriate things, or writing the wrong procedures, or providing inadequate training are NOT Human Causes. These kinds of issues will be discovered and dealt-with when probing for Latent Causes. 

Please note the link to a PowerPoint slide at the bottom of this page.

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