Risk Assessment of Navigation Safety for Ferries

This study aims to discuss a risk assessment of navigation safety for ferries. In this research, the risk factors (RFs) for the navigation safety of ferries are first investigated from relevant literature and ferry operational features. A fuzzy AHP (Analytic Hierarchical Process) approach is then proposed to weight those RFs, after which a continuous risk-matrix model is then developed to determine the RFs' risk levels. Finally, to validate the practical application of the proposed model, ferries traveling across the Taiwan Strait were empirically investigated. The results may provide practical information for ferry operators to improve their safety performances. Further, the proposed risk assessment approach may provide references for related research in the safety management of short-distance passenger ships.

Automated summary

This study aims to discuss the risk assessment of navigation safety for ferries. The research begins by investigating the risk factors for ferry navigation safety from relevant literature and ferry operational features. A fuzzy AHP approach is then proposed to weigh these risk factors, and a continuous risk-matrix model is developed to determine their risk levels. Empirical investigation of ferries traveling across the Taiwan Strait is conducted to validate the practical application of the proposed model. The results provide practical information for ferry operators to improve safety performances and serve as references for related research in the safety management of short-distance passenger ships.