1998 Year of the Ocean The U.S. Marine Transportation System 



significantly, leading to a reduction in important R&D activities and elimination of some crucial 

 programs at the very time that R&D is needed to meet the challenges. 



Human Factors 



As technological advances become more sophisticated, the interface between man and 

 machine becomes increasingly complex. In considering this human element interface, one must 

 recognize that to achieve the world's safest, most cost-effective, and environmentally sound 

 maritime transportation system, the role of people in preventing casualties and pollution must be 

 emphasized. Advances in technology on board vessels and in the marine transportation 

 infrastructure have reduced the number of casualties due to engineering or structural failures to 

 less than 20 percent. 



Studies of recent casualties show that human factors cause 75-95 percent of all marine 

 accidents. This indicates an engineering success story; however, it also indicates that to make 

 additional gains, the issues involving the role and impact of people must be addressed. 

 Management, training, work environment, behavior, and technology are all elements that 

 influence how people will perform. Future improvements to the U.S. marine transportation 

 system must include human element considerations. 



OPTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION 



Improving marine transportation will require a number of actions to improve the focus, 

 coordination, planning, research, and management for ports, waterways, and their intermodal 

 cormections. Investment in the marine transportation system should take several forms: 



• technology assessment and application 



• risk management development and application 



• active involvement at all levels with the user community, environmental interests. 

 Congress, states, and other federal agencies. 



Federal agencies need to take an active role in marine transportation and waterways 

 management at the local and national levels. They need to work with industry and other affected 

 stakeholders to resolve problems and, where appropriate, provide federal funding for projects and 

 services. 



In light of budget cutbacks, the maritime industry, local governments, and the Federal 

 Government should explore partnership funding arrangements to: 



A-14 



