AMSA Marine notices on Responsible Navigational Practices (2021/07) & Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (2021/08)

The Club would like to bring to Members' attention the recent marine notices published by AMSA on the subject of Safety of Navigation. Further to its Focused inspection campaign—Safety of Navigation earlier this year, AMSA has recently published the following notices on the subject Safety of Navigation:

• 2021/07 - Responsible Navigational Practices
• 2021/08 - Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems

Marine notice 2021/07 - Responsible Navigational Practices draws attention to responsible navigational practices which masters and officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships operating in Australian waters should follow. AMSA highlights that Bridge Resource Management (BRM) techniques (including efficient watchkeeping arrangements and passage planning) are integral to responsible navigation practices. Key aspects of responsible navigation practices are highlighted in this circular.

AMSA recommends masters and officers familiarise themselves with the Bridge Resource Management Advisory Note on the AMSA website. AMSA considers it necessary for all international and Australian commercial vessels operating in Australian waters to carry the Mariner’s Handbook for Australian Waters.

Marine notice 2021/08 - Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems draws attention to important information regarding the proper operation of Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS), including the importance of adequate and up to date Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs), for ships visiting Australian ports. Particular issues associated with the use of Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) were earlier highlighted by AMSA in the Maritime Safety Awareness bulletin issue 14—Navigation safety. Comprehensive guidance is available in International Maritime Organization (IMO) Circular MSC.1/Circ.1503/Rev.1 ECDIS – Guidance for Good Practice.

AMSA recommends that masters and officers in charge of a navigational watch familiarise themselves with information on AusENC provided on the AHO website.

Aspects of Safety of Navigation are likely to be verified by the AMSA PSC officers. AMSA PSC officers may take action when there are clear grounds to believe the master or officers in charge of a navigational watch are not familiar with essential shipboard procedures relating to the operation of ECDIS. They also may take action to ensure the ship does not leave port until the situation is resolved within the requirements of the relevant Convention.

The principles of standard navigational practices contained within these various documents should apply generally and should be followed elsewhere as well.