How to Ensure the Integrity of a VDR System

VDR is a ship’s equivalent to the black box on an aeroplane. It documents all the details of an accident at sea, such as the time, date and location, speed, and course of the ship. The data gathered can be used in identifying potential safety hazards and improve operations procedures.

In accordance with IMO regulations, the standard VDR must contain a range of data. This includes dates, times, and Coordinated Universal Time, vessel position (latitude and longitude and coordinate reference) as well as velocity and heading and audio from the bridge (voice messages recorded with one or more microphones on the bridge to record recording conversations and audible alerts) and Very High-Frequency Radio Communications (VHF) and radar data (a exact reproduction of the display that is visible at the time of recording), rudder and engine orders as well as watertight door status and accelerations.

The system consists of a concentrator that encodes and processes the data stream, sensors that provide input to the concentrator and the final recording medium (FRM) designed to withstand accidents and allow for the retrieval of data from voyages. The FRM could be a fixed unit positioned on the vessel or a floating retrievable device connected to the EPIRB to help locate the vessel quickly in the event of a catastrophe.

The best way to ensure that a vdr operates properly is to include its use in all bridge crew drills and exercises for training. The data saved can be used to pinpoint areas in which training is required and as a means to enhance bridge procedures and operational click to investigate safety.