It is a common fact that the majority of all accidents are caused by human error. Yes, we as humans are imperfect and make mistakes that many times lead to accidents. This is especially true in the field of aviation. When the word “aviation” is stated, many outside the field merely think of pilot and plane due to their ignorance. Aviation, however, is one of the most in-depth and volatile subjects in the world. Of course there are planes and yes there are pilots, but there are also maintenance technicians, supervisors, doctors, corporations, assembly lines, publications and many, many others items that make up aerospace. Within this line of people, plans and machinery lay many details that must be followed to the “T” in order to make aviation safe for everyone. There is little room for errors in a world were man causes most mistakes. Human factors are a science that studies people and what causes them to cause accidents. Human factors look at both the physical and mental side of human beings to determine the best way to prevent further mistakes that can cause costly
Aviation accidents almost always occur in a sequence of mistakes made, like a domino effect. Stress is the finger that many times pushes the first domino into the rest causing the effect. In order to maintain safety in aviation, at least one of these dominos must be removed to avoid a dreadful accident. This is where all of human factor studies and hard work can come into play. Depending on what particular job a person is performing in aviation, they must take steps to avoid undue stress. Stress can be avoided by taking steps to relieve other possible factors. Physical factors such as getting plenty of rest, eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water while exercising regularly will help the body resist fatigue and stress. Mental factors are equally as important. Knowing one’s job well and being confident in the execution of job duties will equally reduce stress. The equilibrium of physical and mental factors does not completely destroy the stress factor, but it will make it manageable and thus safer for everyone.