The purpose of AMSA FIC on safety of navigation is to determinate:

-level of compliance with the safety of navigation requirements of International Conventions

-familiarity of the master and officers with their processes for ensuring safety of navigation

More specific, a detailed checklist will be completed by inspectors when conducting focused inspections. The key subjects are the following:

-Has the passage plan been appraised to cover the whole voyage / berth to berth and readily available on primary and back-up navigation systems?

-Does the SMS contain guidance on best practice watchkeeping, including appropriate Under Keel Clearance (UKC) and safety contour settings?

-Are official up to date navigational charts (ENCs) being used onboard for navigation?    

-Has the previous voyage been executed and monitored in accordance with the plan?

-Can watchkeeping officers demonstrate familiarization with ECDIS?

-On ships with ECDIS installed, can the alarm sound be demonstrated?

-Is the bridge visibility obstructed by cargo, cargo gear or other obstructions forward of the beam?

-Is there evidence of an effective lookout being maintained at all times in accordance with COLREGs?

-Is a pilot transfer arrangement provided on-board in accordance with SOLAS Chapter V, Reg 23?

-Are required inputs to ECDIS connected and configured correctly Gyro, Continuous position fixing system (CPS) and speed and distance measuring device)?

-Is there evidence of periodic testing of navigation equipment during the watch?

Source: www.amsa.gov.au

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