The solution is S-Mode

We investigate how S-Mode could have prevented this ECDIS slip-up.

Accidents have happened due to a lack of familiarisation with different ECDIS systems. These accidents may continue to happen if S-Mode is not put into force. 

Here we have a recent MARS report showing how S-Mode could have helped a slip-up with an unfamiliar ECDIS system. Learn from and share our #MARSReports to help keep others safe.

A cargo vessel had recently been changed over to paperless navigation using ECDIS units. While at anchor, the OOW carried out a performance verification of the vessel’s ECDIS. After he had been relieved of his watch, the new OOW noticed that the chart alert settings for safety depth and safety contour had not been changed back to those specified in the active passage plan; they were still the same as those used during the performance verification. These were changed and the officer concerned was informed.

After the incident an informal bridge meeting was called by the Master and all officers were briefed on what could be classified as a near miss.

The company investigation found that the officer who had conducted the test was working on the equipment for the first time. Although the officer had completed a type-specific ECDIS course prior to joining the vessel, apparently performance data checks had not been discussed during the training.

Lessons learned
- Whenever any tests are carried out on any equipment which requires changing of basic settings for testing purposes, they should be reverted back to the original settings immediately after completion of the test.
- When in doubt or if you have not had the training to undertake a task, ask someone who knows.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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