Enhancing Maritime Safety: The Imperative of Pay as you Sail (PAYS) Navigation
Bireshwar Kumar, Business Director for APAC and America, shares his thoughts on adopting Pay as you Sail (PAYS) and its commitment to a safer and more sustainable future.
In the vast expanse of our oceans, the safety of navigation is paramount. Maritime accidents lead to loss of life and environmental damage and result in significant economic losses. Over the years, the maritime industry has strived to improve safety through advanced technologies and innovative approaches. One such approach is PAYS, a navigation system that has gained prominence in recent years. In this article, we will delve into the critical importance of PAYS in enhancing maritime safety, drawing reference from notable accidents, and understanding why this system is a game-changer to the maritime industry.
The Harsh Reality of Maritime Incidents
Maritime accidents are often devastating in their consequences. They can lead to loss of human lives, severe environmental damage, and substantial financial repercussions. In a study conducted by Allianz Global over a 5-year period, 17% of marine insurance claims were caused by shipping incidents (e.g sinking, collision, etc…)1. Here are some prominent accidents from the past that serve as a stark reminder of the need for continuous improvement in maritime safety:
The Sea Diamond Cruise Ship Sinking (2007)
The sinking of the Sea Diamond near Santorini, Greece, serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of inaccurate charts. The vessel struck a reef not marked on its electronic chart, leading to its eventual sinking. Tragically, two passengers lost their lives. This incident highlighted the limitations of relying solely on electronic charts and underscored the need for real-time, accurate data.
MV Riverdance Grounding (2008)
In 2008, MV Riverdance, a Ro-Ro ferry, ran aground off the coast of Blackpool, UK. The accident was attributed to inaccurate electronic charts that did not account for the newly shifted sands in the area. As a result, the vessel strayed from its intended course, causing it to hit the sandbar. The incident led to a major rescue operation, financial losses for the ferry company, and a stark reminder of the critical need for up-to-date navigational data.
The MS Oliva Oil Spill (2011)
Off the pristine shores of Nightingale Island in the South Atlantic, the MS Oliva, a bulk carrier, met its tragic fate in 2011. Straying off course due to outdated charts, the vessel ran aground, spilling tons of crude oil into the ocean. The delicate ecosystem of the island suffered severe damage, showcasing the devastating environmental impact that can result from inaccurate navigational information.
The MV Rena Grounding (2011)
In the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand, MV Rena struck Astrolabe Reef, causing a significant oil spill and environmental disaster. Investigations revealed that the electronic charts used by the vessel were outdated and lacked crucial details about underwater hazards. The incident highlighted the urgent need for real-time, accurate navigational data to prevent such calamities.
These incidents underscore the tremendous human, environmental, and financial toll that maritime accidents can exact. Preventing such accidents is not only a moral imperative but also a practical necessity for the maritime industry.
Here are 5 Reasons Why Pay as you Sail (PAYS) is Significant
PAYS is a navigation system that represents a significant leap forward in enhancing maritime safety. PAYS works on a simple premise: vessels pay for electronic navigational charts (ENCs) only for the specific areas they are navigating through. Here’s why PAYS is crucial:
- Real-time Chart Updates: Traditional paper charts and some electronic charts may not always reflect the most up-to-date information about navigational hazards, wrecks, or shifting underwater terrain. PAYS offers a dynamic approach where vessels only pay for the specific charts they use in real time. This ensures that mariners have access to the most recent, accurate, and updated information about their route, preventing the risk of accidents caused by outdated charts.
- Accurate Route Planning: PAYS enables mariners to access accurate, high-quality ENC data, which is crucial for safe route planning. This minimises the risk of grounding, collisions, or other navigational errors.
- Cost Efficiency: Unlike traditional chart licensing models that require the purchase of charts for entire regions, PAYS allows vessels to pay only for the specific areas they navigate. This significantly reduces the cost burden on ship operators while ensuring access to necessary navigational information.
- Safety at the Core: PAYS places safety at the forefront of navigation. Mariners can confidently rely on accurate and updated charts, knowing that they have the most reliable information at their disposal.
- Compliance and Confidence: Embracing PAYS ensures compliance with regulations that mandate the use of updated charts. Moreover, mariners can navigate with confidence, knowing they have the most precise information available.
PAYS Gains Momentum from Maritime Authorities and Organizations
Several maritime authorities and organisations are recognising the potential of PAYS and are actively promoting its adoption. For instance:
- International Maritime Organization (IMO): The IMO, a specialised agency of the United Nations responsible for regulating shipping, has encouraged the use of ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System), which can be integrated with PAYS.
- National Maritime Authorities: Many countries are actively promoting the use of PAYS by offering incentives or discounts to vessels that adopt this system, making it an attractive option for ship operators.
- Commercial Initiatives: Several private companies provide PAYS services, making it accessible and feasible for a wide range of vessels, from large container ships to smaller fishing boats.
Charting a Safer Tomorrow
The safety of navigation is a shared responsibility of the maritime industry, regulatory authorities, and technology providers. The tragic accidents of the past have reminded us of the urgent need to embrace innovative solutions like PAYS.
PAYS isn’t just about saving costs; it’s about saving lives, protecting the environment, and safeguarding the future of the maritime industry. By providing vessels with accurate, up-to-date navigational data, PAYS empowers mariners to make informed decisions that can prevent accidents and their devastating consequences.
As we move forward in the maritime world, let us recognize that the adoption of PAYS is not just a choice; it’s a commitment to a safer and more sustainable future for our oceans and the countless lives and livelihoods that depend on them. It’s a commitment we must all make.