CHIEF ENGINEER Unit 7 Alarms Q1

An unmanned machinery space (UMS) is a machinery space on a ship that is designed to operate without the continuous presence of watchkeeping personnel. It relies heavily on automation, remote monitoring, and control systems to ensure safe and efficient operation.  

1. Machinery spaces – Wärtsilä

2. ItoRO no. 17 – Unmanned Machinery Space – notation (UMS) – Netherlands Regulatory Framework (NeRF) – Maritime – Puc overheid

Key Features of UMS:

• Remote Control and Monitoring: The machinery spaces are monitored and controlled from a centralized location, typically the bridge or a dedicated control room, using sensors, alarms, and control systems.   1. ItoRO no. 17 – Unmanned Machinery Space – notation (UMS) – Netherlands Regulatory Framework (NeRF) – Maritime – Puc overheid puc.overheid.nl
• Automation: Key machinery and systems are automated to operate without direct human intervention, reducing the need for constant supervision.
• Alarm Systems: Comprehensive alarm systems are in place to detect any malfunctions or abnormal conditions, alerting the watchkeeping personnel on the bridge or in the control room.   1. ItoRO no. 17 – Unmanned Machinery Space – notation (UMS) – Netherlands Regulatory Framework (NeRF) – Maritime – Puc overheid puc.overheid.nl
• Safety Measures: Additional safety measures, such as fire detection and suppression systems, are incorporated to mitigate risks associated with unattended operation.   1. ItoRO no. 17 – Unmanned Machinery Space – notation (UMS) – Netherlands Regulatory Framework (NeRF) – Maritime – Puc overheid puc.overheid.nl

Benefits of UMS:

• Reduced Manning: UMS allows for a reduction in the number of engineering crew required onboard, leading to cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
• Improved Safety: Automation and remote monitoring can enhance safety by reducing the risk of human error and enabling quicker response to potential issues.
• Increased Comfort: By eliminating the need for constant presence in the machinery spaces, UMS can improve working conditions for the engineering crew.

Challenges of UMS:

• Initial Investment: Implementing UMS requires significant investment in automation and control systems.
• Maintenance and Training: Maintaining and troubleshooting complex systems requires specialized skills and training for the crew.
• Emergency Response: In case of a major incident, accessing and resolving issues in an unmanned machinery space can be more challenging.

Regulatory Framework:

The operation of ships with UMS is governed by the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) guidelines for periodically unattended machinery spaces. These guidelines cover aspects like machinery automation, alarm systems, emergency preparedness, and crew training.  

1. ItoRO no. 17 – Unmanned Machinery Space – notation (UMS) – Netherlands Regulatory Framework (NeRF) – Maritime – Puc overheid

Overall, UMS represents a significant advancement in ship design and operation. By harnessing automation and remote monitoring technologies, it offers potential benefits in terms of cost savings, safety, and crew comfort. However, its successful implementation requires careful planning, investment, and ongoing maintenance and training.

False alarms and incorrect data printouts in a ship’s UMS monitoring and control system can have several possible causes, broadly categorized into issues that are:

• Localized to a particular area of engine operation:
  • Sensor Malfunction: The sensor responsible for measuring a specific parameter (e.g., temperature, pressure, level) might be faulty, providing inaccurate readings or triggering false alarms. This could be due to sensor degradation, damage, or calibration issues.
  • Wiring or Cable Faults: The cables connecting the sensors to the monitoring system may be damaged or have loose connections, leading to intermittent or incorrect data transmission. This can cause false alarms or inaccurate readings specific to the affected area.
  • Control Card/Panel Fault: If the alarms and data printouts are grouped within a specific control panel, the issue might lie within the panel’s electronics or software. A faulty component or programming error could cause localized malfunctions.
  • External Interference: Electromagnetic interference from nearby machinery or electrical equipment can disrupt the signals from sensors or communication lines, causing inaccurate readings or false alarms in specific areas.
• General to the engine room:
  • Power Supply Issues: Fluctuations or inconsistencies in the power supply to the monitoring and control system can cause widespread malfunctions, leading to false alarms and inaccurate data printouts across the entire engine room.
  • Earth Faults: Multiple earth faults can affect the electrical grounding and reference points, causing erroneous readings and triggering false alarms throughout the system.
  • Central Processing Unit (CPU) or Software Issues: Problems with the central processing unit or the software running the monitoring system can lead to system-wide errors, resulting in false alarms and incorrect data across all monitored parameters.
  • Communication Network Problems: If the system relies on a network for communication between sensors, control panels, and the central monitoring station, issues with the network can cause widespread data transmission errors and false alarms.

It’s important to investigate and diagnose the root cause of these issues promptly to ensure the continued safe and efficient operation of the vessel. This may involve checking sensor calibrations, inspecting wiring and connections, verifying power supply stability, and conducting software diagnostics.

The recent malfunctions in the UMS monitoring and control system present a significant risk to the safe operation of the vessel. Immediate action must be taken to rectify the situation and ensure that the ship’s machinery and systems can be monitored and controlled effectively.

Immediate Actions:

1. Inform the Chief Engineer: The officer on watch should immediately notify the Chief Engineer of the issues with the UMS system. This will allow the Chief Engineer to assess the situation and determine the necessary course of action.
2. Switch to Manual Monitoring and Control: If possible, switch critical systems to manual monitoring and control. This will provide a temporary solution while the UMS system is being repaired or replaced. However, it will require increased vigilance and manpower to maintain proper oversight of the machinery.
3. Increase Rounds and Inspections: In the absence of a fully functional UMS system, the frequency of manual rounds and inspections in the machinery spaces should be increased. This will help identify any potential issues early on and ensure timely corrective action.
4. Prioritize Critical Systems: Focus on monitoring and controlling critical systems, such as the main propulsion plant, steering gear, and essential auxiliary machinery, to ensure their continued safe operation.
5. Maintain Communication: Maintain close communication between the bridge and engine room to ensure coordination and prompt response to any changes or issues related to the ship’s machinery.

Longer-Term Actions:

1. Diagnose and Repair the UMS System: Conduct a thorough investigation to identify the root cause of the malfunctions in the UMS system. This may involve checking sensor calibrations, inspecting wiring and connections, verifying power supply stability, and conducting software diagnostics. Repair or replace any faulty components.
2. Consider System Upgrade: If the UMS system is outdated or prone to frequent malfunctions, consider upgrading to a more reliable and advanced system.
3. Review and Improve Procedures: Use this incident as an opportunity to review and improve emergency procedures and contingency plans related to UMS failures.
4. Training and Familiarization: Ensure that all engineering personnel are adequately trained and familiarized with the UMS system and its backup procedures.

Reasons for Immediate Action:

• Safety: The primary reason for taking immediate action is to ensure the safety of the ship, its crew, and the environment. A malfunctioning UMS system can lead to undetected machinery failures, potentially resulting in accidents, breakdowns, or pollution incidents.
• Efficiency: A reliable monitoring and control system is essential for the efficient operation of the ship’s machinery. Incorrect data and false alarms can disrupt operations, cause delays, and increase fuel consumption.
• Compliance: The ship must comply with safety regulations, including those related to UMS operation. Failure to maintain a functional monitoring system could lead to non-compliance and potential penalties.

By taking prompt and effective action, the crew can mitigate the risks associated with the UMS system failure and ensure the continued safe operation of the vessel.