ClassNK has released its new Guidelines for Electronic Logbooks, with the publication specifying basic requirements for the approval of electronic logbooks used on ships.
The classification society says that it expects electronic logbooks for decks, machinery, and other items to become more widespread in the near future as shipping companies transition to more paperless systems.
However, under the current conventional framework, only logbooks required by MARPOL have their electronic specifications defined, with unified requirements for electronic logbooks in other areas not yet established. As a result, the use of electronic logbooks in those other areas currently requires individual approval from flag states.
ClassNK’s guidelines specify technical and operational requirements for this approval process for electronic logbooks, as well as product testing recommendations for their functional requirements incorporating existing IMO guidelines and international standards.
The Guidelines for Electronic Logbooks are now available to download on ClassNK’s website.
