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In the event of an Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) failure on a merchant ship, it’s crucial to take prompt action to ensure the safety of the ship and crew. Here are some steps that should be taken:
- Inform Master: Immediately inform MASTER of the ECDIS failure.
- Switch to backup navigation systems and take other necessary precautions.
- Switch to paper charts: Use paper charts as a backup to the ECDIS to continue navigation.
- Do frequent position fixing on the chart.
- Determine the cause of the failure: Following are the cause
- Power failure
- Sensor input failure
- Hardware failure
- Software failure
- The vessel should try to repair the defect using spares as available onboard.
- Notify authorities: Master to inform the technical superintendent about the breakdown of the ECDIS equipment and contact the manufacturer for fault finding & troubleshooting. Inform the flagstate about the breakdown through office.
- Conduct a risk assessment: Assess whether other systems or equipment have been affected and whether additional precautions are necessary.
- Vessel can proceed to her next port using the backup system and arrange for necessary repairs at that port.
Remember to remain calm and follow established procedures. Work together as a team to ensure the safety of the ship and crew, and take all necessary measures to minimize potential risks.