An experimental study into the fault recognition of onboard systems by navigational officers

Autonomy has allowed the maritime industry to design integrated systems leading to the concept of maritime autonomous surface ships. As research towards autonomous operations increases seafarers must be equipped with the knowledge of how to react to onboard system faults and threats to the safety of crew, vessel and cargo. Consequently, the maritime industry may utilise bridge simulators to train seafarers in autonomous operations. By integrating simulation into navigational officer training, it is possible to aid the development of seafarers fault recognition patterns. Moreover, simulation training can provide seafarers with the knowledge to be proactive in fault finding over reactive. Therefore, this study is conducted in a navigational simulator and investigates the fault recognition patterns of seafarers during realistic watch conditions with alternative tasks i.e. paperwork. Moreover, a novel Event Tree Analysis method is proposed to analyse the performance of seafarers and effectiveness of human machine relationship. The study found a low percentage of candidates successfully reacted to all faults and without additional alarms the vessel may have resulted in further danger. Applying the methodology and data assimilated from the study could aid the development of navigational officer short courses, developing seafarers behavioural skills which complement their technical talents.