Lighting Standards for Ships and Energy Efficiency

Abstract

Through the significant effects of lighting on human psychology, adequate lighting on board provides morale and motivation to a ship’s crew therefore improving performance. This chapter aims to explore simultaneously the issues of energy efficiency and optimal lighting, considering existing regulations on shipboard lighting with the determination of adequate lighting for crew. After a brief introduction, in the first part, preferred lighting tendencies are discussed on a maritime regulatory basis, including international maritime conventions compared with International Labor Organization 92/133 Conventions. The second part defines optimal lighting for crew accommodation and working areas by demonstrating an example of a river–type vessel. The third part emphasizes alternative energy sources, such as natural lighting methods, that could create remarkable energy efficiency on the selected river–type vessel. In conclusion, in order to provide optimal lighting for human comfort onboard, alternative energy sources should be fully exploited, with natural lighting methods standing out. Of course artificial lighting will still be there, but any reduction of energy consumption on board a vessel will contribute to energy efficiency.