Methodologies for identification of organisational factors in aircraft accidents

Abstract: This paper presents a description of aviation accident causation models, comparing two of these models and describing research in which one model is being applied to a specific accident. The first model described is the James Reason linear defences model that has been widely accepted, and used not only for aerospace applications, but organisational accidents in general. This model focuses on the performance of a linear system of defences, which are breached to allow the accident to occur. The model to be trialed I the research program (AcciMap) is different in that it explores causal factors and aims to identifY and highlight a network of those factors which contributed to the event, for possible improvement. The research program is exploring the extent to which the two models are complementary, and can assist with accident causation analysis. The paper describes both models, highlighting the differences and similarities in their approach, using examples. and explores the potential use of the AcciMap, with particular focus on applying this method to a specific helicopter accident. The paper compares the two methods, method, and more importantly how they can work together to highlight organisational deficiencies to ensure the highest level off safety and efficiency are achieved