Use of ECDIS as navigation support tool

Use of ECDIS by Watchkeeping Officers Not Holding specific ECDIS Certification

1. Context

ECDIS is a complex, safety-relevant, software-based system with multiple options for display and integration. The safe and effective use of ECDIS involves qualified OOW (both generic and specific), SOLAS approved equipment and software, and official charts.

Official paper charts may still be used as the primary means of navigation, in accordance with SOLAS regulation V/19.2.1.5.

If an approved ECDIS system is also present on board, it can be used solely as a complementary tool for visual reference or support if the officer in charge of the navigational watch is not fully trained.

2. Training

1. ECDIS training is mandatory for all officers in charge of the navigational watch on board. Officers must complete both the generic ECDIS training and the type-specific training for the system onboard to be certified to use ECDIS as the primary means of navigation.
2. Officers who have completed the generic ECDIS training but not the type-specific training may use ECDIS for visual reference and support, but must not rely on it as the primary means of navigation. They should continue to use paper charts as the main navigation tool.
3. If an officer is certified to use the specific ECDIS system onboard, they may familiarise other officers with the system and these officers may use ECDIS on this specific vessel but not maintain, update, or configure the system. If this option is chosen, the vessel must carry at least one officer with the specific ECDIS training for the system onboard.
4. Officers who have not completed the generic ECDIS training or the type-specific training for the system onboard must not use ECDIS as the primary means of navigation. They are permitted to consult the ECDIS passively, as a supplementary tool alongside paper charts.

3. Usage Limitations for Non-Certified Officers

A non-certified specific ECDIS officer:

• May:
  • View the displayed chart
  • Check geographic details
  • Visually compare positions
• May not:
  • Create or modify routes
  • Rely on danger or route alarms
  • Depend solely on the GPS position displayed on ECDIS
  • Discontinue the use of paper charts

4. Responsibility

The Master is responsible for ensuring that officers adhere to these instructions. Any active use of ECDIS by untrained personnel constitutes a non-conformity with STCW and ISM requirements.

5. Recommendation

This guidance is intended to assist smooth implementation and usage of ECDIS onboard and its ongoing safe and effective use on board ships. It is strongly recommended that all navigation officers obtain ECDIS training as soon as possible to enable a future transition to full ECDIS-compliant navigation. This will enhance navigational safety and ensure compliance with SOLAS and STCW regulations.

6. Revision History