Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the situational awareness capabilities of seafarers which is the weakness of the safety management system studies conducted under the human element researches in maritime literature. Methods/ Statistical Analysis: The SART multi-dimensional, self-rating, post-trial situational awareness measurement technique was used to assess the situational awareness on collision avoidance of the seafarers who have different ages and experience levels. The results were analyzed usingdescriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA and post-hoc tests (Tukey, LSD and Bonferroni). Findings: Results indicate that a gradual decline in mean SART scores of the seafarer from oceangoing watchkeeping officers to oceangoing masters is clearly detected. Although this decline is observed in the all SART main dimensions (Understanding + Attentional Demand + Attentional Supply), there is no statistically significant difference among the situational awareness levels of seafarers in SART - generic analysis. Application/Improvements: The findings of this study suggest that, recruiting seafarers by examining the requirements ofthe situational awareness will be a critical stepto minimizeaccidents on board.

Keywords: Seafarers, Situational Awareness, SART