The ergonomics design of the new Jubilee Line service control centre

In 1997, London Underground Ltd (LUL) will open a new service control centre (SCC) at Neasden. This facility will initially control the existing Jubilee Line, but will later control the entire line in its extended form. The SCC will not only regulate and control the movement of trains, but will also control traction power distribution, the new tunnel ventilation system, engineering works and passenger information. This paper describes the ergonomics design work undertaken by Davis Associates during the design development of the SCC. The paper also highlights the trend towards greater emphasis on ergonomics and human factors in control room specifications, and describes the benefits which can be derived from this more user-centred design approach