Table of Contents

An Overview 
The Problem:  Inadvertent Shootings
Handgun Shootings: Inadvertent or Intentional?
Descriptive Definition of Human Factors/Ergonomics
Historical Beginning of Human Factors
 
Human Factors Causes in Unintentional Shootings
Introduction
Stress
Physiological Nature of Stress
Cognitive Responses to Stressful Situations
Emotional Reactions
Chronic Stress
Environmental Stress
Reducing Stress
Fatigue
Sympathetic Contraction
Alcohol
Drugs
Cost of Compliance versus Perceived Injury Likelihood and Severity
Design Induced Human Error – Major Factors
Lack of Formal Handgun Safety training
History of Firearms
Introduction
Gunpowder and Early guns
Matchlock
Wheel Lock
Flintlock
Cap Lock
Ammunition
Rifles/Carbines
Revolvers
Semiautomatics
Pocket Pistols
Handgun Components and Mechanics
Preface
Introduction
Lock, Stock & Barrel
Nomenclature
Handgun Variations
Actions
Operation, Loading, Unloading, Safety
Human Factors/Ergonomics Issues Related to Handgun Design
Ammunition Issues 
Common Features of Ammunition
Cartridge Designations and Other confusing Features
Types of Malfunctions
Other Dangers with Ammunition
Human Factors Issues Related to Ammunition
Fundamentals
Introduction
Grip
Stance
Breath Control
Trigger Control
               
Safety Rules: The Search for Commonality
Introduction
Different Organizations Have Different and Conflicting Safety Rules
Comparison of NRA Safety Rules with Those of Other Organizations
Means of Preventing Access to Home Protection Handguns
Introduction
The Problem
Preventing Unauthorized Access                                                         
Training 
Introduction
Why Training is Essential
Content Issues
Course Standardization and Audits
Reporting of Unintentional Discharges
National Public Databank on Recalls and Potential Catastrophic Training Situations
Strategies for Encouraging Training
Human Factors and Forensics
Human Factors Issues in Litigation Involving Firearms Incidents
Human Factors/Ergonomics Professionals as Expert Witnesses and Consultants in Litigation
Human Factors Code of Forensic Practice
Finding Human Factors/Ergonomics Experts
Other Human Factors Issues to Consider in Forensics
Other Forensic Sciences Relevant to Human Factors Considerations in Shooting Cases
Conclusions and Recommendations         
Human Factors Causes of Unintentional Shootings and Need for Human Factors/Ergonomics Expertise
Finding Human Factors/Ergonomics Specialists and Experts
Appendix A.  Cases
Appendix B. Additional Information from a Study of Physics
                                   and Firearm Handling
References
Glossary
Author Index 
Subject Index
DVD Containing Supporting Photos Cited in Text

About the Author

Castle Pines Village, Colorado, USA Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA Hornick & Associates, Dana Point, California, USA