Mitsui OSK Lines has rolled out state-of-the-art digital safety technology which can predict and prevent grounding casualties across its 700-ship fleet.
The move comes 18 months after the 203,000-dwt bulk carrier Wakashio (built 2007), chartered at the time by MOL, grounded off Mauritius causing widespread pollution.
The technology has been developed jointly with classification society ClassNK and its Finnish subsidiary NAPA.
The technology tracks ships and sends out alerts to shoreside teams when a risk of grounding is detected.
The system is based on NAPA’s cloud-based monitoring platform Fleet Intelligence and incorporates data sources such as the ship position, sea depth, navigational charts and operational patterns. Algorithms are used in the warning mechanism to create alerts based on historical ship movements.
The system will be installed across the MOL chartered and owned fleet.
Calculated alerts
MOL said: “The system also incorporates carefully calculated alerts and notifications to shore-based safety operations teams whenever the increased navigational risk is detected, in turn, enhancing the ability to avoid and mitigate incidents.”
In July 2000 the Wakashio grounded off Mauritius, spilling over 1,000 tons of fuel oil and causing the vessel to break in two. The forward section floated free and was scuttled. However, the stern section remained aground and the wreck removal operation was completed earlier this month.
Since the casualty MOL has been working actively in Mauritius on environmental and social projects to help the island recover from the disaster.
The Wakashio was owned by Nagashiki Shipping.
