EVdB-Newsletter 16-2022

3. Follow up studies Human factors root causes of accidents in inland navigation
The information in this article can also be read in German and Dutch in this document. A number of
studies 'Human factors root causes of accidents in inland navigation' have taken place. These have
been partly paid for by the IWT Platform. See the following links:
• Human factors root causes of accidents in inland navigation Phase 1: data and expert analysis
• Human factors root causes of accidents in inland navigation: HMI and wheelhouse design Phase 2a - Report
• Human factors root causes of accidents in inland navigation: Organisational Aspects Phase 2b – Report
Reason
The reason for the investigations was: an increase in the number of accidents in inland navigation, in
which - according to various sources - the human factor is often the primary cause. Moreover, the
observation that incidents are often followed by a regulatory reflex. In our view, a proper analysis of
the causes of incidents should form the basis for the measures to be taken. The human factor in
relation to accidents in inland navigation is an important issue. For safety on board inland vessels, but
also for the image of inland navigation as a safe mode of transport. With the study results, we want
to provide a useful and substantiated input to further discussions, but above all contribute to reducing
or preventing accidents in inland navigation.
CESNI work programme
The topic is included in general terms in the CESNI work programme for the period 2022-2024. The
text in the work programme at PT 22: To examine the follow-up of the research work on human factors
root causes of accidents in inland navigation: Human Machine Interface and wheelhouse design.
IWT Platform
Earlier this year, a further approach and proper prioritisation were discussed with some IWT Platform
secretaries. The IWT secretaries drew the following conclusions:
• The recommendations phase 2b have higher priority from those of phase 2a;
• The recommendations related to communication have priority;
• Importance of the recommendations regarding too many alarms and apps;
• Importance of the recommendations regarding 'pressure in the chain' or responsibility for
time-bound activities within the inland navigation ecosystem;
• Importance of the recommendations concerning the development of a central database of
European inland navigation with clear definitions and contains general information so that
accidents can be learned from and prevented in the future;
• Importance of accurate information on infrastructure
Requested: opinion NTC of IWT Platform on approach and prioritisation
To the members of the IWT Platform's Nautical & Technical Committee, we ask opinions on a followup
approach. You can read summary information about the studies and their recommendations in the
leaflets from IVR:
• Technical leaflet IVR Human factors 2a
• Technical leaflet IVR Human factors 2b
Question: which recommendations do you think
have priority or not and why?
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