EMERGENCY SIGNAL FAILURE - IMPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

As automation becomes more prevalent in complex task systems, operator s are confronted with a myriad of emergency signals. Although much res earch has been performed to improve the structure and function of sign alling systems, it has concerned mainly those stimuli that are presume d to accurately indicate danger. The current report discusses the gene ral area of emergency signal failure, its implications for complex tas k performance, and recommendations for design and research. A general description of the problem is followed by a review of the applicabilit y of scientific theory to human behaviour during and following signal failure, and the authors conclude with recommendations for personnel t raining and warning signal design and research.