Glossary

Deutsch: Kollision / Español: Colisión / Português: Colisão / Français: Collision / Italiano: Collisione /

In physics, a collision is any event in which two or more bodies exert forces on each other in a relatively short time. Although the most common use of the word collision refers to incidents in which two or more objects collide with great force, the scientific use of the term implies nothing about the magnitude of the force..

In the maritime context, a "collision" refers to an incident in which two or more vessels collide with each other, resulting in physical contact and potential damage or harm. Collisions can occur due to various factors such as navigational errors, miscommunication, adverse weather conditions, equipment failure, or human error. Understanding collisions in the maritime context is crucial for promoting safety, preventing accidents, and implementing appropriate measures to mitigate risks. Let's explore the concept of collisions in the maritime context with examples and mention some similar terms.

1. Vessel Collisions:

- Head-On Collision: A head-on collision occurs when two vessels approach each other from opposite directions and collide bow-to-bow. This type of collision can result in severe damage and is particularly dangerous in narrow waterways or areas with limited maneuvering space.

- T-Bone Collision: A T-bone collision happens when one vessel strikes another vessel perpendicular to its side, forming a T-shape. This type of collision can occur when a vessel fails to give way or misjudges the other vessel's course or speed.

- Rear-End Collision: A rear-end collision occurs when a vessel strikes another vessel from behind. It can happen if the following vessel fails to maintain a safe distance, misjudges the speed or maneuverability of the vessel ahead, or experiences equipment failure.

- Side Swipe Collision: A side swipe collision occurs when the sides of two vessels come into contact. This type of collision can occur when vessels are navigating in close proximity, and one vessel fails to maintain a safe distance or misjudges the other vessel's course.

2. Collisions with Fixed Objects:

- Groundings: A grounding happens when a vessel makes contact with the seabed or a submerged object, resulting in the vessel being stuck or immobilized. Groundings can occur due to navigational errors, inadequate charts, equipment failure, or adverse weather conditions.

- Collisions with Piers or Wharves: Collisions with piers or wharves occur when a vessel strikes a stationary structure along the shoreline or within a port area. These collisions can happen due to misjudgment of the vessel's maneuverability, adverse weather, mechanical failure, or human error.

- Bridge Collisions: Bridge collisions occur when a vessel strikes a bridge structure, such as a bridge pylon or span. These collisions can happen when vessels fail to account for the height or width of the bridge, misjudge the vessel's clearance, or encounter navigational difficulties.

3. Collisions with Floating Objects:

- Collisions with Other Floating Vessels: Collisions can occur when vessels collide with other floating objects such as other ships, barges, or floating debris. These collisions can result from navigational errors, failure to maintain a proper lookout, or adverse weather conditions.

- Collisions with Icebergs: In regions with icebergs, vessels can collide with these large masses of floating ice. Such collisions pose significant risks to vessel integrity and can cause severe damage or sinking. It is essential for vessels operating in ice-infested waters to have appropriate ice navigation procedures and equipment.

- Collisions with Floating Containers or Cargo: Collisions can occur when vessels encounter floating containers or cargo that have fallen overboard. These collisions can result in damage to the vessel's hull or propulsion systems, posing risks to navigation and maritime safety.

Similar terms and concepts related to collisions in the maritime context include:

- Near Miss: A near miss refers to a situation in which two or more vessels come close to colliding but manage to avoid a physical collision. Near misses highlight the importance of close-quarters navigation, collision avoidance, and effective communication.

- Collision Avoidance Regulations: Collision avoidance regulations are rules and guidelines established internationally, such as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS). These regulations provide standardized practices and procedures for vessels to prevent collisions and ensure the safe navigation of vessels.

- Vessel Traffic Services (VTS): Vessel Traffic Services are systems established in busy waterways or ports to monitor vessel traffic, provide navigational information, and assist vessels in collision avoidance. VTS centers use radar, communication systems, and surveillance to enhance maritime safety and efficiency.

- Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Risk assessment and mitigation involve evaluating potential collision risks, implementing measures to reduce those risks, and developing contingency plans to address collision scenarios. This may include conducting navigational audits, training crews, and utilizing collision-avoidance technologies.

Understanding collisions in the maritime context is essential for mariners, vessel operators, and maritime authorities to promote safe navigation, prevent accidents, and safeguard lives and property at sea. By implementing proper training, adherence to regulations, and advanced technologies, the maritime industry aims to minimize the occurrence and impact of collisions.