UKHO Publishes Guide to ECDIS Implementation, Policy and Procedures

The United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) has published a new Nautical Publication to support the transition to ECDIS.

The ‘ADMIRALTY Guide to ECDIS Implementation, Policy and Procedures (NP232)’ has  been designed to allow informed decision-making by any individual or organisation responsible for the introduction of ECDIS aboard ship. It is also intended to provide an onboard reference to support company  procedures developed for the operation of ECDIS, which will assist in preparation for audits and inspections and provide clarification on ECDIS policies and procedures.

NP232 is the third in a series of publications from the UKHO that provide guidance on the transition to ECDIS and Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs), and is designed to complement the ADMIRALTY Guide to the Practical Use of ENCs (NP231) and the ADMIRALTY Guide to ENC Symbols Used in ECDIS (NP5012). Together, this series provides the mariner with an extensive library of information and guidance to support them in the safe, compliant and effective use of ECDIS.

The publication of NP232 supports the global ‘Implementing Your ECDIS Procedures’ seminars. The feedback from seminar delegates over the past four years, which has included serving bridge officers, fleet superintendents and other shipping industry professionals, has played a key role in helping the UKHO to ensure that NP232 provides the guidance that shipping companies are looking for, particularly when it comes to ECDIS operating procedures.

Susie Alder, Product Manager at the UKHO commented: “At our ECDIS seminars we have spent the past four years listening to mariners and answering their questions on ECDIS policies, procedures and implementation. The feedback that we have received clearly indicates that the shipping industry is looking for accurate guidance to help with the digital transition and practical, usable guidance when introducing ECDIS alongside existing navigational techniques.

“NP232 will prove to be an important reference source for those making the transition to ECDIS”.

UKHO, February 21, 2014