Application and Scope This Guide is applicable to existing and new container carriers for which the optional ERGO(LASH)-R or ERGO(LASH) notation has been requested. The purpose of the ABS Guide and the associated notations is to provide the marine container transportation industry with guidance on the design of a more ergonomic working environment. A review of injuries reported to the ABS Mariner Safety Research Initiative (MSRI) was conducted to evaluate the severity and reported cause of injuries sustained during container securing operations. The ABS MSRI data was also reviewed to analyze the container carrier near misses. The key near misses align well with the reported injuries. They include@ but are not limited to: i) Leaving lashing gear hanging unsecured from containers and structure (struck by) ii) Loss of vigilance/situational awareness (slip/trip/fall) iii) Not following the proper processes or procedures (incomplete or incorrect lashing/unlashing) To respond to these issues@ ABS used the MSRI data to investigate and identify opportunities to improve the designs and layouts relating to the securing of containers on deck. The different ergonomic notations focus on improving safe working conditions for lashing and unlashing activities by addressing the key focus areas noted above. The different ergonomic notations can help reduce incidents (injuries and near misses)@ and improve worker safety and performance.