2019 - Human Machine Interface and Alarm Handling

Overview
The Human Machine Interface within a control room is the main (and in some cases only) interface and operator has with the rest of a system. Therefore, the HMI, is an operator's primary source of data.
The quality and the presentation of that data is critical input into the decision making process and therefore, critical to accurate and timely response to an event. System designers have a number of parameters within an HMI that can be manipulated to present data to an operator that best enables that operator to create an accurate mental model of the system. By doing so, the HMI supports the operator's decision-making process.
The means by which alarms are presented to the operator is critical as it is the initial means by which an operator can determine the details of an event. Too little or too much data may hinder and/or delay the operator in establishing a change in operating conditions.
Alarm rationalization and prioritization are essential steps in developing an alarm handling interface that supports the operator and adheres to Human Factors best practice.
Why should you Attend
Over recent decades, the role of the human operator within a system has changed. More frequently, humans perform monitoring tasks and, when appropriate, initiate reactionary measures to an event.
This means that a single operator can oversee a greater range of responsibility. With this, however, it is more critical and more difficult to maintain situational awareness. Situational awareness is an essential requisite for responding to events in a timely manner.
The HMI plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining a human operator's situational awareness. Well design and implemented control systems with a clear and developed HMI significantly improve an operator's ability to perform required tasks. This webinar identifies the critical elements of a well-designed HMI and the role of alarm handling within it.
Areas Covered in the Session
Development of the role of the human operator within a system
Why is the HMI important?
Situational Awareness
Good and bad examples of HMI
Elements of the HMI that can be developed
Impact of alarm handling on effective operation
Who Will Benefit
Strategic and Operational Decision Makers within Complex Systems
Engineers involved in the Development of Control Systems
Control Operators within Complex Systems
Safety Professionals
Speaker Profile
Ben Woodcock is a Human Factors Consultant with over 20 years’ experience of applying his discipline across several industries, including Rail and Transportation, Energy and Defense. He has operated within several countries including the UK, USA, Canada and UAE. He is currently the Project Delivery Director at SNC Lavalin’s Rail and Transit Division, based in Calgary, Canada.