A conceptual model of autonomous ship remote operators' competency

Abstract

The Shore Control Centre (SCC) is being developed and tested as an autonomous ship vessel with remote control. However, since the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) regulation's competency standard has yet to be altered, it must be revised and modified. Therefore, this study aims to define the competency of remote operators on an autonomous ship from ashore and develop a conceptual model of remote operators' competency. This study used both primary data by interviewing executives from four groups of maritime experts, and secondary data from academic databases, IMO, classification society and maritime companies. Academic databases are employed to conclude the academicians' view on remote operators' (ROs') competency and the other data sources are used to conclude the industrial view on the RO's competency. The content analysis technique was used to determine the presence of keywords or concepts from secondary data and develop a conceptual model. The study's findings present four main dimensions to indicate the development of future training and development programs for RO officers: navigation, cargo handling and stowage, controlling the ship's operation and care for persons onboard, and information technology; and present 45 competencies of ROs for managing autonomous ships from ashore, which a conceptual model can explain.