A Method To Evaluate Human Factors/Ergonomics Design Variables of Distress Signals

Abstract

The selection and use of distress signals is crucial for a boater in any emergency. This situation is intensified by the fact that boaters are usually not familiar with such devices. Therefore, incorporation of human factors/ergonomics variables into the design of distress signals can be an important element in boater survival. This report presents a systematic method to evaluate and confirm the effectiveness of human factors/ergonomics variables in the design of distress signals. The effects of several identified variables were tested individually in the lab and synergistically in a (simulated) on-water emergency. It was found that emergency signals that were designed according to human factors/ergonomics recommendations generally required less time to operate than devices that did not follow such guidelines.

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