IEEE 1023-1988 is the guide for applying human factors engineering to systems, equipment, and facilities in nuclear power generating stations. It addresses how plant design and related technical decisions can support operator performance, reduce the chance of human error, and improve overall safety and usability. For nuclear engineering work, this standard is important because it helps align equipment layout, controls, displays, and facility interfaces with the people who must operate and maintain them.

About IEEE 1023-1988

IEEE 1023-1988 provides guidance for integrating human factors engineering into the planning and design of nuclear power plant systems and facilities. Its focus is not on generic management practice, but on the relationship between people and the technical environment in which they work. The standard is useful when evaluating how controls, instrumentation, workspaces, and access arrangements may affect operator awareness, task execution, and response under normal and abnormal conditions. As a technical reference, it supports more consistent design decisions.

Where is IEEE 1023-1988 used?

This standard is most relevant in nuclear power generating stations, especially where engineers are defining control room arrangements, equipment interfaces, maintenance access, and facility layouts. It may be used during design reviews, upgrades, and modifications to systems that operators must monitor or adjust. In practice, IEEE 1023-1988 helps teams consider how human factors influence operation of plant systems, emergency actions, and routine technical workflows. It is especially relevant for equipment and facilities where usability has a direct effect on safety.

Importance in practice

In nuclear engineering, human factors issues can affect reliability, response time, and the likelihood of operational mistakes. IEEE 1023-1988 supports more disciplined design control by encouraging attention to how personnel interact with systems and facilities. That can help reduce interface problems, improve consistency in procedures, and support safer operation and maintenance. For organizations involved in procurement, modification, or compliance work, the standard offers a practical reference for checking whether equipment and workplace design are suitable for the intended use.

• Human factors guidance for nuclear facilities
• Operator controls and display considerations
• Equipment layout and accessibility
• Design support for safer plant operation
• Useful reference for reviews and upgrades