Seafarers’ Skepticism on Safety and Autonomy
A comprehensive study led by NTNU’s Asbjørn Lein Aalberg reveals that mariners, deeply rooted in one of the oldest professional legacies, exhibit significant skepticism regarding the impact of automation and autonomous vessels on maritime safety. Despite the reliance on onboard autopilot systems, they question the potential safety contributions of fully autonomous ships.
The Link Between Professional Pride and Automation Trust
The higher the professional pride among seafarers, the less faith they tend to have in automation enhancing safety at sea. Long-standing maritime traditions deeply influence the seafaring profession, where for many, the career is intertwined with a way of life. The transition to advanced technologies poses substantial shifts for officers responsible for overseeing operations on Norwegian ships.
In-Depth Insights from a Global Survey
The survey conducted by Aalberg is likely the largest of its kind, involving 8,000 Norwegian seafarers, and aims to grasp the roots of their distrust. The transition to employing minimally crewed or uncrewed passenger ferries requires workforce expertise in monitoring and managing these automated systems. For the technology and systems to be effective, it is crucial to understand and address the hesitations of seafaring professionals.
Perspectives of Captains and Navigators
The survey considered responses from 1,789 Norwegian and 227 international bridge officers, addressing their relationship with automation, confidence in autonomous technology, career passion, and management’s approach to safety. Despite women representing 11 percent of Norwegian seafarers, they accounted for only 2.4 percent of the survey participants, reflecting the gender disparity in bridge positions.
Dedication and Duty Among Mariners
Mariners’ pride and duty to their work may intensify their distrust of radical technological changes. Notably, younger officers with substantial professional pride are more skeptical about the promise of autonomy, potentially fearing for their career’s future in a changed maritime landscape.
Overcoming the Challenges of Tradition and Innovation
The reluctance may stem from various factors, including the novelty of autonomous ships and impressions based on hearsay. With the shipping industry evolving, there’s concern about changes in the nature of work and the reduction of autonomy for captains. Emphasizing the rich, authoritative history of the seafaring profession, Aalberg stresses the need to reconcile respect for tradition with the progression towards technological advancements.
Key Challenges and Controversies in Autonomous Shipping
One major challenge in the shift toward autonomous shipping is the potential loss of jobs for seafarers and the future of maritime careers. Automation may not only change the nature of work but could also lead to a reduced demand for seafaring skills, a particularly sensitive issue given the heritage and identity many seafarers attach to their profession.
Another challenge lies in the reliability and security of autonomous systems. Fully autonomous vessels need to prove that they can handle complex navigation and operational tasks under various environmental conditions. In addition, cybersecurity threats pose significant risks, as autonomous ships rely heavily on digital systems that can be vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
Public perceptions and legal frameworks also present roadblocks. There is an uncertainty about the acceptance of autonomous ships by the wider public and anxiety about how safety and responsibility are regulated. The current international maritime law does not fully accommodate the concept of unmanned vessels, requiring new regulations and conventions.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Autonomous Shipping
Advantages:
– Increased Efficiency: Autonomous shipping can enhance operational efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and voyage times while optimizing routes.
– Safety Enhancements: Automated systems can reduce human error, the most common cause of maritime accidents, potentially increasing overall safety.
– Cost Reduction: Over time, the reduced need for crew accommodation, provisions, and lower labor costs can result in significant savings for shipping companies.
Disadvantages:
– Job Loss and Skill Erosion: The reduction of crew on vessels can lead to job losses for seafarers, and the erosion of traditional maritime skills.
– Dependence on Technology: Over-reliance on automated systems may lead to new types of accidents when technology fails or is compromised.
– Social and Ethical Concerns: There are ethical concerns about unmanned vessels, such as the role of humans in decision-making processes, and how these ships fit into the traditional maritime culture.
For those interested in further exploring the domain of autonomous shipping and maritime issues, a useful link would be the International Maritime Organization’s official website: International Maritime Organization.
Note that considerations around autonomous shipping are continuously evolving as new technologies develop and regulations adapt. Seafarers’ expertise and perspectives are essential in shaping a future that balances efficiency and safety with respect to maritime tradition.
The source of the article is from the blog macholevante.com