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A risk management procedure for the Washington state ferries
J R van Dorp1, J R Merrick, J R Harrald
1The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA. dorpjr@seas.gwu.edu
Summary
Washington State Ferries enhanced safety protocols after a risk assessment. A consultant team evaluated risks and recommended prioritized measures to improve passenger and crew safety on the nation's largest ferry system.
Area of Science:
- Maritime Safety
- Risk Assessment & Management
- Transportation Engineering
Background:
- The Washington State Ferry (WSF) system, the largest in the U.S., faced scrutiny regarding passenger and crew safety.
- Introduction of high-speed ferries prompted the establishment of a blue-ribbon panel to assess safety adequacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the adequacy of passenger and crew safety requirements in the WSF system.
- To evaluate the existing risk levels within the WSF system.
- To develop prioritized risk reduction recommendations for enhanced safety.
Main Methods:
- A dynamic simulation methodology was employed to assess the probability of ferry collisions.
- Expert judgment was integrated to extend the scope of available data.
- Collision consequences were modeled to define emergency response requirements.
Main Results:
- The study provided a comprehensive assessment of safety adequacy and risk levels in the WSF system.
- Identified potential risks associated with ferry operations, particularly concerning collisions.
- Evaluated various risk reduction measures for their effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- The assessment provided detailed risk management recommendations to the blue-ribbon panel and the Washington State Transportation Commission.
- Implementation of recommended measures is expected to improve overall safety in the WSF system.
- The methodology offers a robust framework for evaluating and managing risks in large passenger ferry systems.