Human error identification and mental workload index setting during a computer power source change task: A case study

Abstract

This research shows the case study of a cognitive analysis of computer repair technicians’ tasks. According to face to face interviews, the task of diagnose the failure and testing the power supply present difficulties and human error is frequent. In this manner, it is necessary to analyze the task related with this computer malfunctioning that generates high mental workload and, therefore, holds the greatest risk. Thus, the SHERPA human error identification and the NASA-TLX mental workload designation methodologies are presented along with a Hierarchical Task Analysis HTA as a first stage to the study. The results from SHERPA show one critical, occasional error; the results from NASA-TLX show mental demands as having highest score. Actions for human error prevention are also recommended.