DNV GL published a white paper called “Closing the safety gap in an era of transformation”. The white paper identifies a “safety gap” between shipping’s current approach to safety risks and its ambitions for more digitalisation and the adoption of alternative fuels.
While the maritime industry is undergoing a rapid transition to a decarbonised, digitally smart future, the new technologies and fuels are creating a new risk landscape and demanding a new approach to safety, says the white paper.
In order for shipping to adapt and implement the new safety culture, the result could be a maritime industry that is not only more efficient and sustainable, but safer as well.
We need to recognize how any single decision, for example the choice of fuel or introduction of a new digital system, impacts upon other ship systems, the vessel as a whole, and even the fleet. But, if we can all work together, step out of our silos, we can develop the procedures and competencies needed to meet these challenges and enable a culture of continuous improvement
said Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV GL – Maritime.
Moreover, the white paper focuses on digitalization and decarbonization, as well as their different safety-related risks. Namely, digitalization increases system complexity and introduces new ways of operation and collaboration. On the other hand, decarbonization involves a significant increase in the use of alternative fuels and operations.
To deal with these, the white paper gives emphasis on the interaction between technology, organizations, and the people.
“If we want to ensure our industry transforms safely, we must embrace the idea that whenever we are developing new technologies, systems and processes, the end user must be central to that development process
highlights Fenna van de Merwe, Principal Consultant at DNV GL – Maritime, and the paper’s lead author.
She also adds that the aim should be that throughout the industry a shared focus must exist both in design and operation. This would be crucial to understand these new risks and build the safety barriers that will achieve the potential of these new technologies and processes safely.
Finally, the white paper concludes that every maritime organization can play a part in enabling safe and efficient performance, by balancing technology and personnel, using human-centric design, and ensuring the overall wellbeing of their people.
