More time for shipowners to liaise with ECDIS makers over new IHO standards

The NCSR accepted the International Hydrographic Organization's (IHO) proposal to give all shipowners using ECDIS more time to be able to obtain the correct software updates to the new IHO S52 presentation library and thus ensure compliance with the guidelines on maintenance of ECDIS software contained in IMO MSC 1.circ 1503.
The latest IHO Presentation Library (version 4.0) addresses the number one complaint levelled at ECDIS: constant audible alarms. By providing clear guidance to ECDIS manufacturers on ENC (electronic navigational charts) objects that will raise an alarm, the IHO has tackled the issue of alarm fatigue on the bridge, according to the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO). Also, information such as fairway and anchorage area names now appear on screen, with landmarks, lights and buoys viewable via a "hover-over" function.  Both initiatives reduce the time-consuming need to find information buried in a pick report.
In practice this extension means the current IHO Presentation Library edition 3.4 in use on serving ECDISs will remain valid until August 31st 2017. From September 1st all vessels will be expected to have upgraded their ECDIS software to the IHO Presentation Library edition 4.0 in order to remain compliant, the UKHO said.
“By extending the time available for shipping companies to upgrade their ECDIS software to the new IHO Presentation Library edition 4.0, we have been able to alleviate the imminent pressure on the shipowner and the overall supply chain," commented Tom Mellor, chairman of the IHO’s ENC Working Group and also the UKHO head of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Support & Digital Standards.  
“Shipowners are encouraged to contact their ECDIS manufacturer to start the transition to the updated ECDIS standards in order to ensure a smooth switchover and to take advantage of the benefits that the new editions will bring to the bridge," he said. “While there is more time available, the upgrade requirements will vary between different ECDIS makes and models, so it is important that owners work together with their ECDIS manufacturers to identify the steps that need to be taken for all ECDIS systems across their fleet.”