Case Study of Hibernia Illustrating the Benefits of AIS Transponders on Oilrigs

摘要

Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) are VHF transponders that continuously transmit detailed information about the vessels on which they are deployed. This information includes the ship's identity, course, destination, cargo, and position. As of the end of 2004, the use of AIS is mandatory for most international vessel traffic. This paper proposes that an AIS transponder be installed on the Hibernia oilrig, that the AIS data received by it be fused with ship tracks from Hibernia's radar systems, and that these fused tracks be forwarded to the Marine Security Operations Centre (MSOC) at TRINITY by satellite communications. It also describes the benefits for Hibernia and Canada's Recognized Maritime Picture, and so makes the case for AIS installations on other offshore platforms. The paper explores two options for ensuring that the track data are forwarded for the foreseeable future: by individual contractual arrangements or by new government regulations requiring the collection of AIS data by oilrigs more generally. The latter would provide permanent, more extensive coverage than individual contractual arrangements could promise.