The paper presents a new approach to the evaluation of human factor (HF) influence on the risk of maritime
accidents. This approach is based on a formal human–ship–environment system definition including the relationships
between humans, technology, environment, and organization. Social and organizational factors have
already been included in the International Maritime Organization regulations; however, the individual factors
still need investigation. A combination of psychological studies and technical operations of sea-going ships
has given a huge opportunity to use HF assessment in rule-making processes. The main scientific goal of the
research presented in the paper was the development of a method to assess the influence of HF on the risk of
maneuvering accidents in restricted waters. This method is based on research within the area of technical ship
operation and the results of the psychological profile of operators. The proposed model is based on a quantitative
HF model developed by an authorized psychologist comprising personality traits, vulnerability to stress,
and risk approach. The investigations were carried out with a group of 32 experienced ship masters performing
a complex maneuvering task on the Full Mission Ship Handling Simulator. The multidimensional dependencies
between variables of the psychological profile and the risk of an accident resulting from maneuvering errors
were implemented into the Sugeno fuzzy model. The developed model allows risk assessment to be conducted
that depends on the selected personality profile features. These features can be measured using psychological
questionnaires, and then the risk of an accident due to maneuvering error can be calculated for a captain or
marine pilot in order to improve human resource management.
