Overview

What is the ECDIS mandate?

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) approved amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) mandating the fitting of Electronic Chart Display Information System (ECDIS) at the 86th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) in June 2009. The amendment to SOLAS means that all large passenger, tanker and cargo ships will be obliged to fit ECDIS on a rolling timetable that begins in July 2012.

What is the purpose of this guide?

ECDIS is an evolving technology and the new regulations surrounding its mandated use can seem confusing. The purpose of this guide is to clarify the process that leads to adoption of ECDIS by shipping companies, in step with SOLAS Regulations.

What is the involvement of the UKHO?

The United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) is the leading supplier of official Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) allowed under SOLAS Regulations. We believe that ECDIS is a powerful tool which in the hands of trained seafarers can mean safer and more efficient voyages, and at the same time help to protect the marine environment. Our own research suggests that shipowners need to start planning their strategy for the transition to ECDIS now to get the best results.

"With the implementation date for the ECDIS carriage looming it is extremely important that owners and operators consider the implications for their fleets. Great safety and efficiency benefits will result from ECDIS which is certainly not a 'fit and forget' piece of equipment - no computer system is foolproof and teething problems are to be expected. Comprehensive and effective training is therefore essential if ships' officers are to have a thorough understanding of ECDIS capabilities, limitations and secondary navigation modes thus ensuring safe and efficient operation.

The availability of adequate Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) coverage is vital to the adoption of digital navigation and the UKHO continues to work closely with colleagues in the hydrographic community to provide full service for major shipping routes and ports. With an extensive folio of more than 11,000 ENCs AVCS is proving to be a practical and popular choice for mariners."

Rear Admiral Nick Lambert
— UK National Hydrographer


Rear Admiral Nick Lambert

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