Mistake-proofing or Poka-yoke in the human body. Yes - as with most things, nature did it first. Coughing is a natural reaction that prevents the error of foreign bodies from entering into the lungs. The sensitive wall linings of the respiratory tract detect and eject minute particles through coughing. Veins have valves that are designed to prevent the error of back-flow of blood as it travels through the system. They also allow some blood to collect within the system without busting as they have a larger internal diameter Arteries have thick walls that can withstand the high pressure that blood from the heart exerts on the circulatory system Tearing is a necessary reaction to the entry of foreign bodies into the eye Mucus membrane traps bacteria and prevents the error of pathogens entering the system The skin is the first defence against entry of foreign bodies and the oils and enzymes prevent harmful bacteria into the human body Inflammation reaction of swelling happens when blood vessels leak fluid into the tissues. The chemicals attract white blood cells (phagocytes) that eat germs and dead/ damaged cells. This reaction prevents the spread of harmful toxins and pathogens to the rest of the human body and is a form of natural error-proofing