Dr. Paul O’Connor is a human factors psychologist and Senior Lecturer in Primary Care at the University of Galway, Ireland. His research, and teaching, are concerned with improving human performance and safety in high-risk work environments. He has carried out research in a wide range of high risk industries (e.g. civil aviation, offshore oil production), and the military (e.g. naval aviation, special forces). In recent years his research and teaching has focused on the human factors that contribute to patient safety and quality of care.