Basic human characteristics are applied to understanding the design and operation of boats. In particular, the processes of perception, skill, judgment and decision making are analyzed in the boating environment. Emphasis is given to (1) errors and hazards that are likely to result in the boating environment (both stressor-induced and others), and (2) areas where research is needed to determine the role of these human factors in boating. From our present state of knowledge, we can conclude that the human operator needs to be studied to determine the minimum safe levels of performance in each of these areas in the boating task. The proposed methodology involves field investigations with accident victims and constructing real-world test courses to gain data. Quantitative determinations of the safe levels of performance could allow the establishment of the necessary educational or regulatory procedures to assure these performance levels.
