An initial hierarchical systems structure for systemic hazard analysis of autonomous ships

Abstract

Safety assurance of autonomous ships is one of the major long-term challenges faced by the maritime world. Applying systemic hazard analysis methods at this early stage will guide the design and operation of safe autonomous ships. This paper proposes an initial hierarchical ship systems structure that could be the basis for a systemic hazard analysis of autonomous ship systems and operations. The approach is based on the systems theory and the principle of hierarchy and has been developed via the combination of models used in past research projects and requirements of the STCW convention. For enabling the operation of autonomous ships, the ship crew functions are either replaced by ship technical systems or assigned to the Shore-Based Control Centre (SCC).

A Study on Identification of Development Status of MASS Technologies and Directions of Improvement

“…The potential of FRAM for the hazard analysis of autonomous ships has been discussed by several studies. Chaal et al [73] emphasized that that FRAM (together with STPA) can contribute to the safe deployment of autonomous ships. Basnet et al [74] concluded that FRAM and STPA can be optimal methods to analyze the hazards of complex and interconnected systems of autonomous ships, and Relling et al [75] argued that systemic safety models (like FRAM and STAMP) can be candidates for assessing safety in designing autonomous ships.…”