Elements Of Ergonomics Ship Design

3.0 Human Element

According to James Reason, the term “Human Factor”originated during World War II, in response to the problem faced by people in the aviation industry. Human Factor is all about understanding and enhancing human performance attheir workplace, especially in complex systems.

Incorrectly made decisions or actions lead to Human Error. Fatigue, inadequate communications, both between crew members and general technical knowledge, decisions based on inadequate information, psychological and physical factors, etc.are some of the most investigated human factors that cause errors. Usually a lot of small mistakes accumulate and these may have large scale consequences. Therefore, marine accidents do not occur only due to a single human

There are exceptionally few designs that are created and ergonomics emphasizes that the designs complement the strengths and abilities of people within the given environment and minimize the effects of their limitations without forcing them to adapt.

As this thesis describeshuman elements in the shipping industry and the safety culture therein, the area of ergonomics can be a useful tool in the development and implementation of operational strategies in the maritime domain, thus contributing towards safe, efficient and sustainable sea transports.

2.2 Factors for Ergonomics Ship Design

Class ABS provides ERGO notations for selected working areas on vessel classed with ABS. It has developed a Guide with the objective of promoting an ergonomically-focused design and construction of ABS-classed vessels.

The Ergonomics Model given by ABS is as shown -

This Guide provides requirements for ABS notations in four separate areas, as

This committee agreed that Ergonomics would enable a reduction of accidents to seafarers in their given work environment.

However, these are only guidelines provided to ship owners, It is not mandatory. The key areas of considerations for Ergonomics are on the same line as ABS guidelines.

2.3.2 ILO

ILO has published a manual on “Ergonomic checkpoints”. This manual aims at reducing work related accidents,diseases, improving safety, health and working conditions. An Ergonomic checkpoint is provided for those intending to apply practical improvements to existing working conditions.

This manual covers the entire main ergonomic issues at the workplace, such as materials storage and handling; hand tools; productive machine safety; improving the workstation design; lighting; premises; control of hazardous substances and agents; welfare facilities; and work organization. It is thus suited to identifying practical solutions to ergonomic problems in each local situation It provides 132 realistic and flexible solutions to the ergonomic problems that are encountered. These solutions are applicable across a whole range of situations faced at a given work environment..

4.0 Human Factors and