Human Factors - 1

Hypoxia

Results when body cells do not receive enough oxygen to function properly, leading to symptoms like reasoning interference, fatigue, and loss of consciousness.

Types of Hypoxia

Include Hypoxic, Anemic, Stagnant, and Histotoxic, each with different causes and effects on oxygen levels in the body.

Time of Useful Consciousness (TUC)

Refers to the limited time for proper thinking when aircraft suddenly depressurize at high altitudes, affecting pilots' cognitive abilities.

G Forces

Represent the rate of change of velocity affecting blood flow, with positive G causing blood to drain from the head and negative G forcing too much blood into the head.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Results in the replacement of oxygen in red blood cells with carbon monoxide, leading to tissue damage or death, often caused by exposure to engine exhaust or cigarettes.

Alcohol

Pilots should allow sufficient time between consuming alcohol and flying to ensure safety, with regulations requiring at least 12 hours between alcohol consumption and flying.

Drugs

Any medication that impairs a pilot's ability should be avoided before or during flights, including over-the-counter and herbal remedies that may cause drowsiness or decrease mental alertness.

Hyperventilation

Caused by excessive oxygen and reduced carbon dioxide in the blood, leading to symptoms like dizziness and cramping, with remedies including breathing slowly and deeply to restore balance.

Gas Expansion

Ascent through the atmosphere can cause gas expansion in body areas like sinuses and ears, potentially leading to dysbarisms or barotrauma, such as decompression sickness.

Decompression Sickness

Occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in body tissues due to pressure changes, often prevented by pressurized cabins, with symptoms like the bends, the creeps, and the chokes.