The Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) is a powerful electronic navigational tool that has become integral to modern maritime operations. When used with appropriate backup systems, ECDIS complies with the latest chart carriage requirements under Chapter V of the SOLAS convention, making it an acceptable primary means of navigation. For a system to qualify as an ECDIS, it must be type-approved and certified by the relevant flag state, ensuring it meets the IMO Performance Standards. Systems that are not certified are known as Electronic Chart Systems (ECS) and may only be used as navigation aids but not as primary systems.
This article serves as the first in a series focused on ECDIS loss prevention. Below, we explore some of the key aspects of its operation, functionality, and safety.
With the Manila amendments to the STCW Code that came into effect on January 1, 2012, all navigational watchkeeping officers must complete ECDIS training when serving on vessels equipped with this technology. The training is necessary whether ECDIS is used as the primary navigation tool or an auxiliary aid. To ensure officers are fully prepared, training is divided into two stages:
Generic Training: This is usually conducted in a training center and focuses on the underlying principles of ECDIS. It aligns with the competencies set forth in the IMO model course but does not emphasize specific equipment.
Type-Specific Familiarization: This phase ensures the officer is acquainted with the particular ECDIS system installed on their vessel. Familiarization typically includes understanding the setup and functionality, backup arrangements, and implementation of the company's electronic navigation procedures.
ECDIS systems utilize two types of electronic navigational charts: Raster Navigational Charts (RNC) and Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC). These chart types differ in how they present information to the navigator and the level of interaction possible.
Raster charts are digital versions of traditional paper charts created by national hydrographic offices. They are static images that cannot be interrogated for additional information. ECDIS systems using RNCs offer limited functionality; for example, automatic alarms like anti-grounding alarms are unavailable. Manual input by the navigator is required for certain alarms, such as ship safety contour lines and isolated dangers.
Care should be taken when using RNCs, especially when the original chart is not based on the WGS84 datum, as this may affect the vessel's position-fixing system.
ENCs, on the other hand, are fully digitized databases that offer complete functionality with ECDIS systems. These charts allow navigators to access detailed information about objects, navigational marks, and hazards by interrogating the data within the chart. ENCs also enable automatic alarms, including warnings for shallow depths, isolated dangers, and cross-track errors.
Navigators must be familiar with chart layers and ensure that critical information, like depth data, remains visible during different modes of navigation. Official ENCs meeting IHO standards should always be used to comply with SOLAS chart carriage requirements.
One of the primary benefits of ECDIS is that it enhances navigational safety by reducing the navigator's workload compared to paper chart systems. The system enables efficient route planning and monitoring, offering automatic checks against preset safety parameters. To ensure safe and effective use, navigators must be familiar with the equipment settings and continually verify the accuracy of positional inputs.
To maintain navigational safety in the event of ECDIS failure, a backup system must contain a copy of the current voyage plan. This redundancy ensures that navigation can continue smoothly without unnecessary risks.
By offering real-time plotting of the ship's position, ECDIS improves situational awareness and enables navigators to focus on current conditions, minimizing errors that arise from relying on outdated information.
In conclusion, while ECDIS offers substantial advantages in maritime safety, its effectiveness depends heavily on proper training, familiarization with navigational charts, and correct system operation. With the right approach, ECDIS can be an invaluable asset in ensuring the safety and efficiency of modern maritime navigation.
