Digital technologies, data-driven insights, and artificial intelligence (AI) are poised to transform the maritime industry, setting a new safety standard at sea. According to Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman and CEO of ABS, these innovations will drive a fundamental shift in how the industry approaches safety, regulations, and operational procedures. Speaking at the Capital Link Shipping and Marine Services Forum in London, Wiernicki emphasized that AI’s capacity for real-time risk assessment and monitoring will play a critical role in enhancing hazard detection and operational efficiency.
Wiernicki highlighted the use of digital twins as a pivotal tool in predicting maritime performance and mitigating risks. By creating a real-time digital representation of a vessel’s operations, digital twins will allow the industry to foresee potential safety concerns before they arise, addressing the unforeseen consequences of rapid technological advancements. This, he noted, will be key to navigating the industry’s path toward decarbonization without compromising safety.
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As the industry embraces digitalization, Wiernicki stressed that the concept of safety is evolving. Rather than simply preventing accidents, safety will be seen as a balance between capacity, capability, and demand, with cybersecurity and reliability becoming core components. While the potential for significant safety improvements is immense, he acknowledged that there is still substantial work to be done in areas like training and systems development to fully realize these benefits.
