Content area
Full text
Investigations of marine disasters have often identified poor standards and training of seafarers as key contributing factors. The Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 95) introduced new requirements for maritime education and training, and imposed new responsibilities on flag states (countries that register fishing boats) and shipping companies. STCW also takes into account technical innovation in maritime training. This article examines the role of human factors in maritime safety and discusses ways to reduce human error in ship operations. Training and communication problems are analyzed, as are possible solutions. Discussion then turns to requirements for better training methods and the role of modern communication systems in onboard training. Some scientific approaches for dealing with human error are also discussed. Finally, conclusions and recommendations are offered.
Shipping is a vital industry, carrying 97 percent of world trade (Wang and McOwan). Modern merchant shipping is a specialized, complex operation that is governed by comprehensive rules and regulations developed by national and international authorities. Vessels have increased in number and become faster, more sophisticated and expensive. Thanks to modern technology and modern navigation equipment, marine transportation is more efficient than ever before.
However, injury and fatality statistics indicate that shipping remains a high-risk industry One of the key concerns in the effort to achieve higher safety standards aboard ships is the qualification of crew members. In many cases, ship safety is closely related to human error. Human error is defined as "an action [or omission] which can be identified as the immediate cause of the event [from which liability arises]" (UK P&I Clubs). It can also be defined as "a departure from acceptable oz desirable practice on the part of an individual that can result in unacceptable or undesirable results" (ABS).
Reducing human error offers considerable economic incentives. It can be achieved in several ways.
Installation of safety warning devices, such as sensors and alarms, to detect problems and signal that corrective action is needed.
Improved training, supervision and communications.
Increased level of automation.
Better vessel design, and improved operation and maintenance.
Better operation may be the most effective way to reduce human error in the shipping industry (Anderson, et al 67+). Better equipment design may also significantly reduce human error-or at least control...