Analysis of Risks Arising from the Use of Autonomous Vessels

Abstract

This paper focuses on the analysis of risks arising from the use of autonomous ships. The concept of autonomy is defined, different levels of autonomy are mentioned, and the differences between unmanned vessels and autonomous ships are well known. The transition to autonomous ships brings certain risks that need to be managed. Therefore, this paper analyses the risks associated with autonomous ships, which have received significant attention in recent years. An important aspect in considering risks is human error, which according to various studies is the most common cause of maritime accidents. However, autonomy also has the potential to create accidents, which manifest in five unacceptable hazards in the initial configuration of the ship. The main hazard human error, interaction with manned vessels and object detection, interaction with the physical environment, system failure, cyber-attacks, and equipment failure. The focus of the ship’s work is to prevent and reduce the probability of critical events and their causes and maximize operational efficiency and performance.