Prediction of human error probability in helicopter to ship transfer operation under an evidential reasoning extended CREAM approach

Although the helicopter to ship transfer operation is rarely applied in ports around the world, some of the hub ports have encouraged it. The operational process poses challenges to safety due to the nature of the work to be completed by the ship crew. This article performs a systematic human error prediction to ensure safe helicopter to ship transfer operations under different circumstances since the human factor is becoming a significant contributor to maritime accidents. To accomplish this, the article addresses a cognitive reliability and error analysis method (CREAM) under the evidential reasoning (ER) approach. In the proposed approach, the CREAM provides a comprehensive human error prediction tool and ER is capable of supporting experts’ judgment in decision-making. The findings of the research show that ‘Secure the loose objects within or adjacent to the operating area’ poses a high human error probability (4.50E–02) during helicopter to ship transfer operations.