TECHNICAL ARTICLES

ECDIS AND POTENTIAL LEGAL IMPLICATIONS: PROCEEDING WITH CAUTION
Vivian Forbes PhD (UWA), MA (Curtin), FMSIA
Adjunct Associate Professor, Curtin University and Map Curator, University of Western Australia

Abstract
The electronic chart and associated systems represents an entirely new approach to marine navigation. Such a system is no longer regarded as simply a computergenerated display on a monitor designed to replace paper charts. An Electronic Navigation Chart (ENC) and Electronic Chart Display Information System (ECDIS) are real-time navigation concepts that integrate electronic chart data with various types of positioning and navigation systems, including Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Radar/Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA), shipboard Automated Identification System (AIS) and the innovative International Ship Facility Security Code (ISPS) – an integrated, total bridge navigation system. In 1987, the Harmonisation Group of IMO/IHO was established to develop a performance standard for ECDIS. It was perceived then, that ECDIS would be recognised as a legal equivalent to the folio of paper charts that were required to be carried on ships in accordance with the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, namely, that it may be used instead of the paper charts. ECDIS, as an automated decision-making aid is capable of continuously determining a vessel’s position in relation to the adjacent land, charted objects, unseen hazards, other vessels in the vicinity and the prevailing marine environment.


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