Risky (Human Factors) Business: Lessons Learned from Consulting on Risk Management and How to Effectively Communicate Risk Across Human Factors Applications

Risk management and risk communication are inherent components of human factors work. Human factors professionals must confront how human capabilities and limitations impact the safe and effective use of devices and medications and their role in attaining an informed balance between the potential for harm and benefit. Notably, effective risk management and communication depend on systemic elements including the audience, the product, and the environment. For instance, communications regarding an in-clinic dialysis system for use by physicians and patients will be different from how risk is communicated for a kitchen appliance designed for home use. This proceedings paper provides a brief introductory overview of risk communications and summarizes tools and strategies for effective risk communication.