As we already know, 2009 brought confirmation of the timetable for the mandatory adoption of ECDIS and this means that for large sectors of the industry going digital is no longer an interesting option, it’s a must, with an immovable timetable attached. As a result, companies affected by the first phase adoption in 2012 need to start their planning now.
There are a number of steps and considerations to be made to ensure that there is a smooth transition from paper to digital navigation. The most important thing is finding out how each fleet will be affected – although the legislation will eventually apply to almost all large merchant vessels and passenger ships, it will be phased by vessel type and size so it is vital to know when your ships will be affected. The first phase affects new passenger ships and new tankers.
Developing an implementation strategy is key, as it is important to recognise that the transition from paper to electronic navigation is a fundamental change in the way ship navigation will be conducted, it’s not simply a case of fitting another piece of hardware to ensure compliance with a carriage requirement.
Key things to consider include the purchase and installation of ECDIS equipment, amendments to bridge procedures, co-ordination between ship and shore, and the selection of a chart service that best meets operational needs and fulfils the carriage requirements.
One of the most important elements is training. Arranging and acquiring the appropriate training certification can take several months and as a minimum you should be able to satisfy your Flag State and any independent audit authorities that your crews are proficient in using ECDIS to maintain safety of navigation.
Although the main aim of ECDIS is safety it can also increase operational efficiency that in turn can lead to bottom-line savings. Navigators and marine superintendents regularly report a steady flow of benefits from using ECDIS, including the fact that updates to chart data can be virtually instant. For more information on how you can successfully adopt and get the best of ECDIS you can read our 10 Steps to ECDIS Mandation by clicking here.