(Mars 201907) Auto-pilot systems can reduce the monotony of steering, but also have disadvantages.
Edited from USCG Safety Alert 10-16
On the one hand, auto-pilot systems can free the helmsman to step away from the helm to perform other minor tasks and gain different navigational viewpoints. They also have disadvantages by making it easier for operators to engage in negligent navigational practices. Over-reliance on these systems can allow an operator to become too engrossed in performing other work on the bridge and, in extreme cases, can lead to personnel leaving the bridge for extended periods of time.
In some past incidents, the operator’s lack of system knowledge has hindered their ability to change over rapidly from auto-pilot to manual steering even when there was time to take corrective action.
Lessons Learned
- Using auto-pilot does not relieve crew from always keeping a sharp lookout.
- Know how to switch quickly from auto-pilot to manual steering.
- If there is a change in conditions (visibility, traffic density, area of navigation) re-evaluate the use of auto-pilot.
MARS Reports
This is one of the January MARS Reports that are part of Report Number 315. A selection of this Report has also been published in SWZ|Maritime’s February issue.
Acknowledgement
Through the kind intermediary of The Nautical Institute we gratefully acknowledge sponsorship provided by:
American Bureau of Shipping, AR Brink & Associates, Britannia P&I Club, Cargill, Class NK, DNV, Gard, IHS Fairplay Safety at Sea International, International Institute of Marine Surveying, Lairdside Maritime Centre, London Offshore Consultants, MOL Tankship Management (Europe) Ltd, Noble Denton, North of England P&I Club, Sail Training International, Shipowners Club, The Marine Society and Sea Cadets, The Swedish Club, UK Hydrographic Office, West of England P&I Club
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