ECDIS

Question 1

What should the Master check to ensure ECDIS is set up correctly?

Answer 1

1. Safety contour
2. Safety depths
3. Deep contour
4. Off track and channel limits are set correctly
5. The passage has been checked for dangers and all are accepted
6. Is there a watch vector set up to warn and alarm in any danger
7. Route is berth to berth and appropriate
8. Appropriate scale charts are loaded and up to date.

Question 2

What is the safety contour on ECDIS?

Answer 2

Using the vessels draught + Squat + UKC gives required water depth. ECDIS selects the next deepest contour to this required depth and highlights the area of water less than this depth to indicate where safe water lies.

Question 3

What is the safety depth?

Answer 3

Spot soundings pre set to the same as the safety contour which appear in bold to alert the OOW of shallow water

Question 4

What is the deep contour?

Answer 4

Pre set to 2 times draught, this highlights water where squat is likely to be experienced

Question 5

What 4 things allows ECDIS to be approved for use?

Answer 5

1. Be type approved
2. Use up to date ENC’s
3. Be maintained to be compatible with latest IHO standards
4. Have adequate independent backup