The Objective

Human Factors Engineering is fundamentally a safety discipline. At Kapstone, we treat HFE as a subset of Risk Management, ensuring that the identification of a use-error leads directly to an engineered design control. By aligning ISO 62366-1 (Usability) with ISO 14971 (Risk Management), we close the loop between human behavior and device safety.

Key Considerations

  • The Use-Risk Connection: We don't just identify "human error"; we categorize use-errors as potential hazards. Our process ensures that every critical task identified in your usability studies is mapped to a risk control in your Quality Management System (QMS).
  • Use-Error as a Design Input: By identifying "known or foreseeable use-errors" early, we turn potential regulatory hurdles into design inputs. This proactive approach prevents expensive "safety debt" and redesigns late in the development cycle.
  • Post-Market Surveillance (PMS) Readiness: Commercialization isn't the end of HFE. We help teams establish a feedback loop where post-market use-data informs the ongoing risk file, satisfying the requirements of the new FDA QMSR and EU MDR.

FAQ

What is the relationship between use-error and risk management in medical devices?

In MedTech, a use-error is a hazard that must be evaluated under ISO 14971. Identifying these errors through ISO 62366-1 allows engineers to implement risk controls, such as physical barriers, software interlocks, or improved labeling, to ensure the device remains safe and effective for the intended user.

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