FAA Aviation Mechanic General (AMG)Regulations, Records and Human FactorsHard
A technician needs a calibrated torque wrench in a specific range to properly torque critical engine fasteners, but the shop's only calibrated wrench in that range is checked out to another crew. Under time pressure, the technician uses an uncalibrated wrench and estimates the torque by feel. This scenario best represents which 'Dirty Dozen' factor?
- ALack of Teamwork
- BLack of Knowledge
- CLack of Resources
- DStress
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Lack of Resources
Lack of Resources refers to insufficient tools, equipment, parts, or manpower needed to properly complete a task; the unavailability of a properly calibrated torque wrench forcing an improvised, uncalibrated method is a direct example of this factor.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Lack of Teamwork involves failure to cooperate with others, not a tool shortage.
- B. Lack of Knowledge would mean the technician doesn't understand torque procedures, not that the tool is unavailable.
- D. Stress is a psychological/physiological strain, which may result from this situation but is not the root cause described.
Lack of Resources (Dirty Dozen)
One of the 'Dirty Dozen' human factors; occurs when a technician lacks the necessary tools, parts, manuals, time, or personnel to properly perform a maintenance task, often leading to improvisation or shortcuts.
- Includes tool, part, and manpower shortages
- Can lead to using improper or uncalibrated equipment
- Mitigated by proper planning and inventory management
- Distinct from Lack of Knowledge (skill/training gap)
Memory trick: No proper wrench in the toolbox forces a risky guess—Lack of Resources breeds improvisation.