As digitalisation within the shipping industry advances following the requirement to have Electronic Chart Display Information System (ECDIS), our experienced Master Mariners provide advanced forensic analysis and assessment through the use of Avenca’s Marine Accident Data Analysis Software (MADAS).
MADAS allows for electronic data from multiple electronic sources such as Voyage Data Recorder (VDR), Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), Automatic Identification System (AIS) and CCTV to be integrated simultaneously into a single screen video playback for accurate and detailed analysis.
We have the capability of undertaking both routine and post incident VDR analysis of navigational situations. This service enables us to provide an expert review and appraisal of navigation analysis of the bridge team from the VDR recording. Our expert technical reports can be used for training purposes as well as assisting Owners in any casualty investigation, leading to expert opinion in matters going to litigation.
We can also obtain vessel AIS data using MSG’s Prospector and Plotter and overlay the data onto a nautical chart for assessment purposes. Data for multiple vessels can be obtained, and a video replay of an incident can be created. Additionally, weather model data can be acquired for weather assessment purposes.
Our experienced Master Mariners have seagoing experience with electronic chart systems and regularly provide expert opinion and evidence in the use of ECDIS, VDR and other forms of electronic data. The forensic navigation analysis services we are able to provide include:
- VDR analysis and MADAS playbacks for collisions, groundings, mooring incidents and other navigational events, particularly for litigation and casualty investigations.
- AIS animation and vessel reconstructions to support incident analysis.
- Expert opinion of navigational aspects such as use of ECDIS, passage planning, application of the Collision Regulations and bridge resource management following incidents such as collisions, groundings and unsafe port disputes.
- Expert opinion on Ice Navigation.
- Navigation Assessments/Audits – bespoke to the client’s requirements, ranging from SMS reviews to onboard bridge team performance evaluations (or remote using VDR data). We will provide a comprehensive report with our findings and recommendations.
- Support for shipowners, managers, charterers, and legal professionals in incident investigations and expert testimony.
Brookes Bell’s Master Mariners are supported by an industry-leading, worldwide network of Naval Architects, Marine Engineers, Fire Investigators, Metallurgists and Cargo Scientists.