Rapid developments in electronic and digital signalization technology have enabled remote command and control of machinery and systems, as in every field. In addition to allowing "remote" instead of "local" command and control in the operation of ship machinery and systems, it has also implemented an "unmanned machinery space" application. But the phenomenon of "unmanned machinery space" management has unfortunately been misunderstood by the shipping community. As a result of the work carried out by the World Labor Organization (ILO) with the World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent the damage to the ears and psychology of seafarers who work for a long time in the noisy engine room, the automation system has been implemented due to the opportunities provided by digital technology. In this application, thanks to sensors, actuators and data processors, all necessary static and dynamic information of machines and systems are transmitted to the Engine Room Control panels as electronic signals. Therefore, in addition to the continuous command and control of all circuit elements, machines and systems connected to the automation system, Marine Engineers had the opportunity to see, analyze, interpret, make decisions and intervene immediately, is also provided. However, the phenomenon of "unmanned machinery space" was misunderstood, and the engine room was left completely unmanned, and management began to be made from the cabins. It is known that almost all ships with automation class today apply the concept of "unmanned machinery space" in this way. However, this practice is fundamentally wrong. Because the Automation system has been implemented in order to ensure that the Marine Engineers responsible for the shift constantly follow the developing events, see the future with analysis, and take the necessary measures in a timely manner by making comments. As it is understood from the court records of many ship accidents registered in the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAİB), it is seen that ignorance and application errors in the application procedures of the Automation system cause the accidents. For this reason, Engine Room Simulator Training is extremely important in correcting wrong practices on the one hand and training Marine Engineers responsible for Managing Engine Room Resources in accordance with the machine on the other hand. It is certain that if a well-designed Engine Room automation is well implemented, it will prevent many ship, machine and system accidents.

 

Last modified: Wednesday, 3 May 2023, 12:53 PM