CLASSIFICATION society ClassNK has begun joint investigative research with Sompo Japan Insurance on risk assessment of autonomous ships.
Global efforts are accelerating toward the practical use of technology for autonomous operation in the field of ships, as this may be a promising way to improve safety by preventing human error related to ship maneuvering and working conditions by reducing the work load of crew members.
With the implementation of demonstration projects and development of the guidelines led by the government, the framework for safety evaluation is in progress in Japan.
ClassNK conducts research and development for the safety evaluation and setting standards for autonomous operation technology, and is also involved in efforts by the government, research institutes and corporates related to such technology.
Utilising ClassNK’s knowledge of ships, and Sompo Japan’s knowledge on risks, the research effort will carry out optimal risk assessment for autonomous ships with the aim of announcing the results in 2022.
