Enhancing SAR communication and decision making using Vessel TRIAGE: Concept an developments

Efficient response to maritime incidents and accidents requires good communication processes and situation awareness by all involved parties, in particular between the Search and Rescue (SAR) response operators and the crew of the distressed
vessel. This paper discusses the Vessel TRIAGE method, a newly developed tool to assess the safety status of a vessel involved in a maritime accident or incident. The focus of this the assessment of the vessel’s condition in terms of its capability to provide a safe environment for the people onboard, as well as for response crews potentially assigned to the scene. The method uses a relatively simple categorization system based on a number of threat factors, and results in a categorization in one of four safety levels. The levels can be easily communicated by all involved parties to achieve a shared situational
awareness, enabling enhanced decision-making. This
paper furthermore gives a brief overview of industrial developments related to Vessel TRIAGE, showing the method’s potential for innovative technical solutions supporting SAR communication. Finally, further testing needs of the Vessel TRIAGE method and stakeholder concerns about its implementation
are outlined, based on discussions at IMO’s
Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communication and Search and Rescue. This provides a path for further envisaged work for implementing the method in practice.