Radio interference from damaged equipment affects other vessels
- Safety Flash
- Published on 28 January 2022
- Generated on 1 May 2025
- IMCA SF 03/22
- 2 minute read
Radio frequency interference to the vessel’s GNSS systems was reported by a surveyor.
What happened?
On a pipelay barge, radio frequency interference to the vessel’s GNSS systems was reported by a surveyor. There was only one other vessel alongside. This vessel was contacted with a request to switch off any transmitting devices.
Sailor 150 Fleet Broadband system
Sailor 150 Fleet Broadband connector panel
On that vessel, bridge systems with transmittal capabilities were switched off, and the pipelay barge GNSS functionality was restored. Vessel crew started troubleshooting, but the reason could not be identified and technical support from shore was requested.
What was the cause?
The shore service team used radio frequency (RF) detection and spectrum analysis equipment to detect and analyse RF signals transmitted by various sources, after which it was identified that the interference issue was caused by a factory-fitted SAILOR 150 Fleet Broadband which was not in use, but not disconnected.
The radio frequency interference came from a failed connector panel of SAILOR 150 Fleet Broadband System. This caused an outage of GNSS positioning systems for the surrounding vessels in close vicinity.
Recommendations
- Failed equipment can transmit a radio signal which can interfere with the communication or navigational equipment nearby.
- Check for any similar equipment onboard that is not in use, but not disconnected or powered down – removal may be worth consideration.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 10/08
9 June 2008
-
IMCA SF 24/18
30 October 2018
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.