ECDIS and Positioning

The Nautical Institute launched ECDIS and Positioning, by Dr Andy Norris CNI to provide mariners with a thorough grounding in all aspects of ECDIS and the use of electronic charts. From 1 July 2012, the use of ECDIS becomes compulsory for certain classes of vessel. In the run up to this, over confidence is being placed in the sole use of GPS for positioning information, mainly due to the inadequacy of training.

The use of ECDIS is a total change from using paper charts and the transition from paper charts to electronic poses a challenge for the industry, particularly for those who have no current experience of electronic charts. Important bridge procedures are significantly affected, and these require careful analysis and consideration if ECDIS assisted groundings are to be avoided.ECDIS and Positioning, the second volume of Dr Norris’ Integrated Bridge Systems series, helps paper chart-taught officers to make ECDIS work for them. It also helps new entrants to the industry, who may be more familiar with Google Earth, to understand how to use the system within accepted navigational principles.

Technology will be of very little benefit in enhancing navigational safety if the watchkeeping officer is not fully trained and properly qualified in its use. The Institute’s own research reveals that most mariners feel that more effective training is needed. As a step towards this, these best practice guides published by The Nautical Institute are essential reading for all serving officers, shipowners, operators, managers and training institutions.