Comparing the complexity of procedural steps with the operatorsʹ performance observed under stressful conditions

In this study, to clarify the appropriateness of the step complexity (SC) measure, step performance time data are empirically collected under stressful conditions, and then they are compared with the SC scores. As for the result, when the operators have to accomplish their tasks using the procedures, it is found that there is a statistically meaningful correlation between the SC scores and the operatorsʹ performance data under stressful conditions. Therefore, although the data used in this study are not obtained from designed experiments but from empirical observations, it is quite positive to expect that the SC measure could be a useful method to scrutinize the operatorsʹ performance under stressful conditions. It is also expected that the SC measure can be used to improve both the procedures and the quality of the emergency training because the complicated tasks that need careful consideration are effectively distinguished by it.