4 Proceeding from the development of ergonomic requirements for individual nautical devices the work of the group extended since NAV 40 in the last 5 years to a holistic consideration of the entire bridge layout. Therefore ergonomic criteria for bridge equipment and layout have been compiled. The ergonomic requirements listed in the annex are based on a large amount of international standards and guidelines as well as on empirical studies with questionnaires and interviews also involved in task analysis procedures. The initially extensive collection of about 650 ergonomic criteria have been condensed to the purposes of IMO.
5 The criteria were empirically verified on board of various ships. They were further improved on the recommendations of members of the correspondence.
Background information
6 It is the purpose of the ergonomic criteria for bridge equipment and layout and the bridge concept attached in the annex to render assistance to consistent, reliable and efficient bridge operation and also to positively influence safety oriented future developments in this field and should cater for an appropriate consideration of the human element while constructing and equipping new ships.
7 The joint MSC/MEPC working group on Human Element noted the work of the intersessional correspondence group and recognised the draft performance standards of ergonomic criteria for bridge equipment and layout to be an important step to be taken into account for future developments.
Action requested of the Sub-Committee
8 The Sub-Committee is invited to consider the report of the correspondence group on Ergonomic Criteria for Bridge Equipment and Layout and to decide as deem necessary
