What is the primary safety feature utilized for generating anti-grounding alarms in ECDIS?

What is the primary safety feature utilized for generating anti-grounding alarms in ECDIS?

• A. Area with Special Conditions
• B. Safety Contour
• C. Deviation from Route
• D. Malfunction of ECDIS

Answer: (B)

The primary safety feature utilized for generating anti-grounding alarms in ECDIS is the safety contour. This contour is a critical parameter used by the ECDIS system to ensure the safe navigation of vessels in relation to underwater topography. By defining a specific depth contour, the ECDIS can assess if the vessel is in danger of grounding based on its current position and depth of water beneath it. When the vessel approaches or crosses this safety contour, the ECDIS generates an alarm, alerting the crew to potential grounding risks. The safety contour is adjustable based on the vessel’s draft and operational requirements, allowing for tailored safety measures. This function is vital for enhancing situational awareness and ensuring the maritime safety of the vessel. The other options, such as area with special conditions and deviation from route, while important in their own contexts, do not specifically serve the primary function of anti-grounding alarms like the safety contour does. Malfunction of ECDIS, although a relevant concern for overall system performance, does not constitute a safety feature aimed at preventing grounding incidents. Thus, the safety contour stands out as the correct answer due to its direct application in grounding prevention.

The primary safety feature utilized for generating anti-grounding alarms in ECDIS is the safety contour. This contour is a critical parameter used by the ECDIS system to ensure the safe navigation of vessels in relation to underwater topography. By defining a specific depth contour, the ECDIS can assess if the vessel is in danger of grounding based on its current position and depth of water beneath it.

When the vessel approaches or crosses this safety contour, the ECDIS generates an alarm, alerting the crew to potential grounding risks. The safety contour is adjustable based on the vessel’s draft and operational requirements, allowing for tailored safety measures. This function is vital for enhancing situational awareness and ensuring the maritime safety of the vessel.

The other options, such as area with special conditions and deviation from route, while important in their own contexts, do not specifically serve the primary function of anti-grounding alarms like the safety contour does. Malfunction of ECDIS, although a relevant concern for overall system performance, does not constitute a safety feature aimed at preventing grounding incidents. Thus, the safety contour stands out as the correct answer due to its direct application in grounding prevention.