Introduction ABS recognizes the positive impact that suitable habitability criteria and design practices may have on the safety@ productivity@ morale@ and overall well-being of seafarers. The ABS Guide for Crew Habitability on Ships has been developed with the objective of improving the quality of crew member performance and comfort by improving working and living environments in terms of accommodation area design and ambient environmental qualities. These habitability criteria have been chosen to provide a means to help reduce crew fatigue@ improve performance and safety@ and to assist with crew recruiting and retention.