Focus Area: Smart Shipping
Overview
Man overboard (MOB) incidents are significant risks in port waters, where vessels navigate through crowded and complex environments. Despite existing safety protocols, such incidents can occur due to human error, adverse weather, or equipment failure. Traditional methods of responding to MOB incidents rely heavily on manual observation and communication, which can be slow and error-prone. How can we develop solutions to better manage MOB situations in port waters?
Importance
- MOB incidents represent a critical safety concern in maritime operations, especially in port waters.
- Factors contributing to MOB incidents include human error, rough weather, equipment malfunctions, and lack of training.
- Effective detection, response, and prevention are essential to minimize fatalities and injuries.
Market Potential
- Applicable to anyone over water in Singapore, including port inspectors, government officers, marine pilots, shipyard workers, vessel crew, visitors, and members of the public engaging in water activities.
- A significant market exists for improving safety measures for various stakeholders in the maritime industry.
Current Efforts
- MPA lifejackets with twin chamber buoyancy and automatic CO2 firing mechanisms provide buoyancy of 275N.
- These lifejackets are fitted with AIS-PLB for tracking MOB positions, automatically deploying and transmitting signals via AIS, DSC, and GPS.
Solution Criteria
- Must be cost-effective.
- Should be easy to use.
- Needs to be lightweight.
Potential Solutions
- Lightweight Lifejackets: Develop super lightweight lifejackets with back-up inflation and AIS-PLB for all conditions.
- Propulsion-Enabled Lifejackets: Equip lifejackets with propulsion means to help MOB individuals escape when trapped underwater.
- Alternative Boarding Means: Innovate new methods for safely boarding vessels.
- Alarm Systems: Install siren alarms in lifejackets to activate when waterborne.
- Improved Pilot Ladders: Create ladders from new materials instead of traditional manila ropes to enhance safety.
Examples of MOB Incidents
- Worker fell from height after rope ladder broke.
- Worker fell into the sea while attempting to board a barge.
- Worker drowned after falling into water.
- Worker fell into the sea when gangway tipped over.
- Worker fell into the sea while moving from vessel to vessel.
By addressing these issues with innovative solutions, we can significantly improve the safety and response to MOB incidents in port waters, protecting lives and enhancing maritime operational safety.