Human Factors and Risk Analysis in Conventional System of Marble Mining: Using HFACS Framework and Structural Equation Modeling Technique

Accidents in mines can occur due to sources of hazards that lead to the loss of hundreds of precious lives every year. Among these sources, human error is considered one of the significant sources that contribute to human errors causing accidents. In this study, different risk factors were analyzed that contribute to human errors and subsequent accidents in the conventional marble mining system. Data was collected from marble mine workers through a questionnaire based on the Human Factors and Classification Systemframework. Structural equation modeling was applied to examine the interaction between contributory factors that trace backto mine accidents. Two structural models were developed, showing good fit for indices with chi-square to the degree of freedom values of 2.967 and 2.095, respectively, and root mean square error of approximation value below 0.08. The results indicate thatthe risks caused by individuals or systems have considerable effects on human performance and safety. The findings further explore that safety management at the managerial and supervisory levels is mostly associated with systematic risks, influencing safety policies, procedures, and oversight mechanisms. However, risk caused by lack of PPE, improper machinery, and lack of training has a direct effect on workers, leading to unsafe activities. These risk factors significantly contribute to the development ofunsafe conditions that increase the probability and potential severity of accidents. For improving unsafe conditions, the implementation of mechanization can effectively decrease reliance on workers, thereby minimizing human errors and ultimately enhancing safety. The findings of this study will be helpful for the assessment the surface mines safety in a better way.