There is a growing concern within the industry about the large number of claims arising from ship collisions, groundings and contacts. Given the technical and operational developments in recent years relating to navigation systems, we may ask why accidents continue to happen – systems are only as good as the people who operate them.
About 80% of marine casualties are caused, at least in part, by some form of human error. Therefore, the level of bridge crews' competence, their working conditions on board and their communication and interactions within the bridge team should be main focus areas for Gard's Members and clients. After all, the human being is the only intelligent barrier to avoid navigational error in the overall operation on board a vessel. This topic aims to help by highlighting navigation issues commonly encountered by Gard.
Damage to fixed objects when manoeuvring in confined waters
Don't fall asleep on the job - No let-up in fatigue related casualties
Hull and machinery incident – Voyage planning and grounding
Gard Guidance to Masters on Management and communication
Gard Guidance to Masters on Navigational Training
ECDIS - Charting the future of navigation
Gard Guidance to Masters on Inspection, maintenance and repair of navigational aids and equipment
Maintenance and adjustment of magnetic compasses
UK Hydrographic Office’s ECDIS workshops
VDR data - Lost before it is found?
Voyage Data Recorders - Black box technology paves its way into shipping