Neuropsychological aspects observed in a nuclear plant simulator and its relation to human reliability analysis

Abstract

This paper will discuss preliminary results of an evaluation methodology for the analysis and quantification of errors in manual (human) operation by training cognitive parameters and skill levels in the complex control system operation based on Neuropsychology and Psychophysiology approaches. The research was conducted using a game (nuclear power plant simulator) that simulates concepts of operation of a nuclear plant with a split sample evaluating aspects of learning and knowledge in the nuclear context. Operators were monitored using biomarkers (ECG, EEG, GSR, face detection and eye tracking) and the results were analyzed by statistical multivariate techniques. The experiments aimed at observing state change situations such as shutdowns and planned matches, incidents assumptions and ordinary features of operation. The preliminary findings of this research effort indicate that neuropsychological aspects can contribute to improve the available human reliability techniques by making them more realistic both in the context of quantitative approaches for regulatory purposes as well as in reducing the incidence of human error.