OCIMF RecommendationsOCIMF has published guidance on how to improve policies and procedures concerning the safe use of Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS).Scope of GuidanceWith the increase of vessels using ECDIS as primary and secondary navigational charts, several navigational incidents have been reported, where one of the contributory factors has been ECDIS-related. As such, the guide summarizes the contributing factors identified from the analysis of navigational incidents as well as Ship Inspection Report Programme (SIRE).Contributing factor analysisOCIMF analyzed navigational incidents (11 published reports and seven company investigation reports) between 2016 and 2018, involving tankers fitted with ECDIS. SIRE observations related to ECDIS were also analyzed to identify common themes. The findings have been categorized into three main sections:
The findings were also analyzed by taken into consideration the four stages of voyage planning:
SOLAS Chapter 5, Annexes 24 & 25 titled “Voyage Planning” and “Guidelines for voyage planning”, the traditional stages of voyage planning do not include Validation stage. However experienced mariners, at the end of planning stage reviewed the developed plan, and presented it to bridge team. This was an unofficial validation stage. Nonetheless, planning on ECDIS requires a detailed review and validation in order to identify possible gaps during planning related to ECDIS specific characteristics and factors.Findings
Stage | Human Factors and Machine Interface | ECDIS Navigation Procedures and Practices | ECDIS Hardware, Software and ENC Data |
Appraisal |
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Planning |
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Validation |
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Execution and Monitoring |
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The flow of actions is based on the following:System Installation ⇒ Procedures to support the System ⇒ Human implementation of proceduresFrom finding analysis without inserting any severity factors, it is revealed that the most challenging area is ‘’Procedures & Practices’’.Actions requiredShip Managers should:
Masters should:
Deck Officers assigned as in charge of navigational watch should: