Mining Publication: Using Coal Miners' Experience To Identify Effective Operating Cues
Original creation date: October 1998
Authors: KM Cornelius, LJ Steiner, FC Turin
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20000115
Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 42nd Annual Meeting, 1998 Oct; :1098-1102
Like many experienced workers, remote control continuous miner operators perform their everyday jobs making choices and decisions that they may not consciously think about. While performing tasks, they are continuously processing feedback and cues which guide them for the next move. Initial training teaches the operators the tasks necessary to operate the equipment and perform the job. However, with experience they are better able to deal with hazardous conditions and non routine situations. To better understand what potential cues and feedback help to guide the operators, a questionnaire was developed to learn what factors affect decisions. Operator responses address issues related to specific tasks, equipment operation, visibility, lighting, and communication issues. The information collected is useful to understand what cues experienced operators use to make task performance decisions. Results will be used to develop interventions and training for safe and effective operator performance.
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20000115
Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 42nd Annual Meeting, 1998 Oct; :1098-1102