On 1 June 2021,  we published a joint press release on our Study of the Human Factors in Inland Shipping Accidents. The results of a first study phase are accessible online (click here!) and could have already reached you in the last couple of months.

This study has been carried out by a research centre Intergo (International Centre for Safety Ergonomics & Human factors), being commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure, the European inland shipping industry (united in the European IWT Platform) and the insurers united in the IVR.

Meanwhile, a second phase of the study has started. The 2nd Phase of the study is divided into two parts. Whereas phase 2a focuses on the man-machine interface in the wheelhouse, phase 2b focuses on the four most plausible causes of accidents, namely communication; fatigue and stress; specific waterway situations; and qualifications of the crew members.

Your opinion counts!

Your input is very valuable and of crucial importance to our research.
Therefore, we would like to ask you to fill out the questionnaire – should take no more than 15-20 minutes – which is available in several languages:

We would like to ask you to complete the questionnaire by 26 June.

The purpose of the questionnaire is to collect quantitative information on a number of topics, as well as a selection of interesting cases for the in-depth working visits. Of course, all information will be treated confidentially, and your comments will be processed anonymously. If you would like to know more about the study, please see the background information below. However, reading this information is  not necessary for completing the questionnaire.

Please, do share this survey with your colleagues and co-workers. We thank you for your cooperation!
If you have any questions regarding the questionnaire, please do not hesitate to contact us at l.pater@binnenvaart.nl and bdb-fietze@binnenschiff.de

Background

Various sources indicate that in a large number of cases, human factor is the primary cause of accidents in inland navigation. This is a serious issue, not only for the safety on board inland vessels, but also for the image of inland navigation as a safe mode of transport. Therefore, an in-depth study of the human factor in inland shipping accidents was recently commissioned. ! The study is divided into two parts: 2a: ‘Man-machine interface in the wheelhouse’, and 2b: ‘Further investigation into four frequently occurring causes of accidents’.

We want to use the results of this study not only as a valuable input for further discussion, but – above all – as a contribution to reduce and prevent accidents in inland navigation. Active participation of the inland shipping sector is crucial to carry out a thorough study.

Your cooperation is therefore highly appreciated!

Thank you!

European IWT Platform