Many empirical studies on warnings have been published in human factors and ergonomics (HF/E) literature. A major impetus to this research has been concurrent activity by HF/E professionals participating as expert witnesses in product liability and personal injury cases in which there is a claim of failure to adequately warn about associated hazards. This paper describes the relationship between forensics and warnings research. The authors review how the issues in forensics can identify researchable questions. Two examples are provided: vehicle seat recline and explicitness. The interaction between the expert role and warnings research has contributed to the research progress. There are two benefits of this symbiotic interaction. First, by extending the knowledge and understanding of warning system design and effectiveness, it has contributed to the potential for warnings to be effective in improving safety. It has also enabled HF/E specialists to better fulfill their role as legal experts on warnings.
Abstract