BELTREP has become even more effective on Safety of Navigation
At the recent session of the Sub-Committee on Safety of Navigation (NAV 57), the Organization mentions the reporting system BELTREP in the Great Belt as ground-breaking.
Fewer administrative burdens for seafarers and improved navigational safety. The Danish ship reporting system BELTREP is popular in United Nations International Maritime Organization. The ship reporting system has become even more effective through a number of recent amendments that have just been considered by the Organizations Sub-Committee on Safety of Navigation.
The conclusion is clear: The Sub-Committee is very enthusiastic about the Danish system and would like other countries to develop similar ship reporting systems.
Navigational safety in Danish waters must be second to none. Every day, many ships pass through our belts, straits and sounds and, consequently, it is important that we have an overview ensuring a high degree of safety. Naturally, I am proud that our ship reporting system for the Great Belt is mentioned as something special, but I am even more satisfied that the system makes it far easier for the seafarers on board who do not have to spend time and efforts on administrative difficulties and inconveniences, says Head of Centre Per Sønderstrup from the Danish Maritime Authority.
The system is based on the ships automatically transmitting information about, among other things, their position, draught and destination by means of the so-called AIS system. The Danish authorities use this information to ensure that the ships pass the Great Belt safely. Normally, the ships are to use their radio to get in contact with the authorities and report the same things several times, but when passing through the Great Belt, this will to a wide extent be automated so that the navigator on board can concentrate on steering the ship without being disturbed.
As a new measure, the ships will before arriving at the Great Belt be able to send an e-mail to the Danish authorities if they carry dangerous cargoes.
Source: Danish Maritime Authority
