Human factors analysis of Kaohsiung 8′1 explosion accident based on HFACS-UP

Abstract

Human factor is one of the main causes of urban gas pipeline explosion accidents. In order to minimize the consequences of such accidents, it is crucial to distinguish the human factors. In the present study, The Human Factors Analysis and Classification System-Urban Pipeline (HFACS-UP) is established according to the characteristics of urban pipeline accidents. Then the HFACS-UP framework is used to identify the human factors of a pipeline explosion accident occurred in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The results indicate that the routine violations, skill-based errors, intellectual limitations, technological environment, failure to correct problems, insufficient safety culture, organizational process vulnerability and insufficient government supervision are the main factors lead to the explosion accident. Finally, the prevention measures are proposed to ensure the safe operation of urban pipelines based on the analysis results.