PSC deficiency code 10112: Electronic charts (ECDIS)
Code 10112 is used when something is wrong with the ECDIS as a means of navigation: the charts in it, the software, the backup, or how the officers use it. Inspectors often check it at the console with the OOW.
What the inspector looks at
- ENC coverage for the whole intended voyage, with valid permits that don't expire mid-passage
- ENC updates applied to the latest weekly cumulative or base disc, and the update log
- software version and whether the system meets current IHO chart content and display standards
- the approved backup: second ECDIS or corrected paper charts, and that the backup is also up to date
- safety contour, safety depth and alarm settings appropriate for the ship's draft and the waters
- route checked in the system with the check results reviewed
- generic ECDIS training certificates and type-specific familiarisation for the deck officers
Common findings
- ENCs not updated; latest update applied older than the weekly update held on board
- ENC permits expired or missing for part of the voyage
- ECDIS software not updated to the current IHO standards
- Backup ECDIS not updated / not synchronised with the primary
- Safety contour set incorrectly for the vessel's draft; alarms muted or disabled
- Route not checked in ECDIS, or route check warnings not addressed
- Officer unable to demonstrate basic ECDIS functions; no type-specific familiarisation record
The rule behind it
SOLAS chapter V, regulation 19 sets the ECDIS carriage requirement for ship types and sizes phased in from 2012, and allows an ECDIS to meet the chart carriage requirement. Regulation 27 requires the charts, electronic ones included, to be adequate and up to date. The equipment has to be type approved to the IMO performance standards for ECDIS. Training sits in STCW for the generic course, while type-specific familiarisation is a company duty under the ISM Code.
Action codes you are likely to see
Missing ENC updates or expired permits for the next leg usually come as 17, rectify before departure. Software that doesn't meet current standards is often given 16 or 18, depending on whether an update can be done quickly. If the ECDIS is the only chart system and it's unusable or without valid charts for the voyage, and there's no working backup, the ship can be detained (30). See action taken codes.
How to close it
Apply the outstanding updates and renew permits, then show the update log and the current status screen. For software, get the maker's service engineer or a remote update and keep the service report showing the new version. Correct the settings and re-run the route check. For training gaps, record the type-specific familiarisation in the SMS forms and keep the certificates on board. Keep all of it with the Form B for the re-inspection.