CMPA Position Statement on e-Navigation
As defined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), e-Navigation is “the harmonized collection, integration, exchange, presentation and analysis of marine information on board and ashore by electronic means to enhance berth to berth navigation and related services for safety and security at sea and protection of the marine environment.”
In recent years, e-Navigation has been the object of much attention by many stakeholders, both in Canada and around the world. The IMO has developed a Strategy for the Development and Implementation of E-Navigation and, in Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) also has developed an e-Navigation implementation strategy, based on the work conducted by the IMO. The CCG’s objective is to position Canada as a world-leader in the implementation of e-Navigation and to significantly enhance the ability to share information electronically between ships and from ship-to-shore and shore-to-ship.
Canadian pilots support the use of advanced navigation technology and, in particular, the e-Navigation concept of operation. In fact, pilots have been playing a leadership role in the development and implementation of some of the most compelling and innovative uses of e-Navigation to date in Canada. While pilots have been early innovators in this field, as knowledgeable and experienced practitioners they are also aware of the cautions that must surround it. In particular, they can help identify requirements associated with the use of e-Navigation in compulsory pilotage areas.
The following three overarching and inter-related principles have been adopted by the International Maritime Pilots’ Association in May 2010 and form the basis of its position on e-Navigation. The Canadian Marine Pilots’ Association considers these principles to be very relevant in the Canadian context and believes they should play a guiding role in the implementation of Canada’s e-Navigation strategy.
Predominance of the Human Element
- While e-Navigation has the potential to enhance navigation safety, it will only reach its full potential if used in a manner that appropriately reflects the fact that mariners are the most critical factor in safe navigation. This means that the expert human element present on the bridge of a ship must continue to be at the center of the decision-making process related to navigation safety.
Meeting the Needs of the Bridge Team and the Pilot
- The development and implementation of e-Navigation must be focused on ensuring that it responds to real needs - first and foremost those of the bridge team and the pilot - and be driven by clear safety considerations. As such, particular attention must be given to ensuring that the information provided by e-Navigation components and applications adequately meets the needs of the bridge team and the pilot, and facilitates the tasks they need to perform.
Looking Out the Window Remains Essential
- e-Navigation is a useful concept that promises to advance navigation safety through better integration of the information provided by onboard and onshore electronic sources. The integration of information obtained by electronic means, however, does not diminish the need to obtain information through other means. To ensure safe navigation, it is therefore essential that e-Navigation data be complemented by and validated through traditional methods, including voice communications and fixed/floating aids to navigation.
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