Introduction
Human Factor Engineering (HFE) is a structured engineering study used to improve the interaction between people, equipment, control systems, and the working environment. In process facilities, HFE helps ensure that operators and maintenance teams can safely access, identify, operate, inspect, and maintain equipment during normal, maintenance, and emergency conditions.
HFE Methodology
The Human Factor Engineering (HFE) approach is based on practical review of facility design, operator tasks, accessibility, and human-system interaction. A typical HFE study includes:
- HFE Screening
- Review of applicable HFE standards and design practices
- Valve Criticality Analysis (VCA)
- Task Requirement Analysis (TRA)
- Control Room and HMI Review
- Accessibility and Maintainability Assessment
- Equipment, Valve, Piping, and Facility Labelling Review
- Human Error Risk Identification
- HFE Recommendations and Closeout Actions
Conclusion
Human Factor Engineering (HFE) improves facility safety by ensuring that equipment and operating interfaces are designed for real human use. It reduces the chance of human error, improves maintainability, supports emergency response, and strengthens long-term operational reliability.
1. HFE Review for Gas Supply Reliability Improvement Facilities
Client: QatarEnergy
Facility: Gas Distribution Stations
Introduction
A Human Factor Engineering review was carried out for gas distribution station modifications intended to improve the reliability of fuel gas supply to power generation facilities. The study focused on ensuring that the proposed bypass facilities, pigging systems, metering arrangements, pressure protection systems, and related control modifications could be safely operated and maintained.
Project Insights
- HFE Screening was performed to identify applicable design requirements.
- Valve Criticality Analysis was carried out for operational and safety-related valves.
- Critical valves were reviewed for access, visibility, reach distance, operating height, and platform requirements.
- HMI and control system modification requirements were reviewed for operator usability.
- Maintenance and emergency access requirements were assessed for proposed bypass and pigging facilities.
- The study helped identify HFE requirements to be carried forward into the next engineering phase.
Outcomes
The study supported safer and more practical operation of the modified gas distribution facilities. It improved clarity on valve accessibility, operator interaction, maintainability, and emergency response requirements for future design development.
2. HFE Review for EPIC Services for Miscellaneous Works at NFA & WHP3
Client: QatarEnergy
Facility: Miscellaneous Works at NFA & WHP3
Introduction
A Human Factor Engineering study was performed for offshore modification works involving closed drain systems, open drain systems, Hydraulic Power Unit improvements, pressure protection upgrades, and control logic changes. The review focused on ensuring that the modifications could be safely operated, maintained, and verified in offshore conditions.
Project Insights
- Human Factor Engineering (HFE) Screening was completed to define applicable HFE requirements.
- Valve Criticality Analysis was performed for valves associated with modified systems.
- Task Requirement Analysis was carried out for selected operational and maintenance activities.
- Closed drain pressure protection modifications were reviewed from an operator access and safety perspective.
- HPU accumulator monitoring and control changes were assessed for maintainability and usability.
- Open drain gooseneck modifications were reviewed for safe access, vapor seal maintenance, and operational practicality.
- Requirements for procedure updates, site verification, and operator training were identified.
Outcomes
The study helped improve offshore maintainability, operator access, task clarity, and safe interaction with modified systems. It also supported better readiness for construction closeout, operating procedure updates, and personnel training.
