ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates ergonomic studies in shipping and maritime transport through an examination of the literature. It analyses an ergonomic approach to work places and working conditions in shipping. The chapter also analyses the results from a survey conducted amongst shipping companies. Ergonomics can play an influential role in the panel instrument and display layout and configuration both in the bridge/wheelhouse and machinery room. The principles of ergonomics and ergonomic programmes need to be introduced into maritime companies through an extensive education programme. The maritime sector has some effective tools including the International Safety Management Code and the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Convention both of which are mandatory and require that ergonomic issues are considered. A review of Turkish maritime related companies including shipyards, shipowners and manning agencies showed that the concepts of ergonomics were little known in this sector.
