By Patty J. Eschliman, MHA, MLS(ASCP), DLM, CPC and Dan Scungio, MT (ASCP), SLS, CQA (ASQ)
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this article, the reader will be able to:
- Describe the Swiss Cheese model and the factors involved in errors.
- Discuss human performance and safety using the GEMS model and describe common errors in the modes of this model.
- Differentiate the key principles of Just Culture as it pertains to laboratory safety.
- List and describe the factors involved in gaining trust in the reporting of safety issues.

Patty J. Eschliman, MHA, MLS(ASasCP), DLM, CPC is a Certified Professional Coach who specializes in laboratory leadership growth and professional support. As President and CEO of The Lab Leader Coach, Patty coaches many lab professionals in all roles in the areas of building leadership skills, preventing burnout, improving communication, building cohesive teams, and how to be a positive influencer. She has 39 years of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, the last 29 spent in leadership.

Dan Scungio, MT (ASasCP), SLS, CQA (ASasQ)has more than 25 years of experience as a certified medical tech. He was a lab manager for 10 years before becoming the laboratory safety officer for Sentara Healthcare, a system of 12 hospitals and more than 20 labs and draw sites in Virginia and North Caroline. As “Dan the Lab Safety Man,” he provides consulting, education, and training in the U.S. and Canada.