This third edition of EEMUA 201 was produced in response to changes in technology and good practice across industry. EEMUA 201 provides a comprehensive guide to the design of control rooms including the control building, physical aspects of the control room, working environment, console design, and control system graphics. Emerging issues are covered such as devices used outside of the control room, security and there is a stronger focus on human factors. The aim of the new edition is to provide improved guidance to people involved in the design of control rooms, both during new-build and modification projects as well as evaluating existing control rooms.

EEMUA 201 relates to human-computer interface (HCI) systems provided for people operating industrial processes and activities on facilities such as chemical plant, power stations and oil refineries. HCI systems are one of a number of key areas that can influence - and optimise - human performance in the area of a centralised control room, so important in maintaining process and major hazard safety. EEMUA 201 gives guidance on: the factors to take into account when designing an HCI; display hierarchies; screen display format design; and control room design attributes which affect HCIs. It is for use by engineers and managers in both user and contracting organisations. The objective is not only to make plants more operable, efficient and able to avoid abnormal situations, but to be able to better manage such situations should they occur.

EEMUA 201 is not a standard and is not intended to replace any. Designers will be expected to identify and adhere to any standards and regulations and any company and project specifications. The intention is that EEMUA 201 will provide guidance on how this can be achieved in the most effective way.