Which type of error occurs when actions are performed incorrectly?

The type of error that occurs when actions are performed incorrectly is known as commission. This refers specifically to situations where an individual takes an action that is not appropriate or correct within the context of a given task or procedure. For example, if a safety professional overlooks a critical safety protocol by incorrectly implementing a procedure or failing to follow the correct steps, this could be classified as a commission error.

The focus here is on the execution of an action that leads to a harmful outcome due to the nature of the action itself being flawed. In contrast to omission errors, where an intended action is not taken, commission errors directly involve executing the wrong action, thereby leading to potential accidents or unsafe conditions in the workplace.

The other types of errors like timing and sequence pertain to the order of actions taken or executing actions too early or too late, which do not capture the essence of performing an action incorrectly in the same way that commission does. Understanding this distinction is crucial in safety practices as it helps identify and rectify potential causes of accidents or mishaps in various work environments.