Aids to Navigation (AtoN) have evolved over time.

As new technology emerges, asset managers have a large range of options and features to consider. This document identifies how clever AtoN design and functionality can help authorities reduce operational costs and improve the visibility of their connected devices.

Aids to Navigation (AtoN) play a pivotal role in maritime safety and extend much further than being the traffic lights of the sea.

We are a long way from the days of a traditional lighthouse whose kerosene lamp served as a simple warning of danger ahead.

The navigational tools available to mariners today are vast and they continue to evolve as new technologies are realized.

Types of AtoN

Congestion within the world’s ports and shipping channels continues to grow, with the maritime industry relying on AtoN to ensure navigational safety and to manage traffic conditions.

AtoN types include:

• A fixed platform (lighthouse or beacon).
• A floating AtoN (buoys with distinctive shapes and colours).
• Visual aids (marine lanterns and sector lights set to specific IALA flash characters)
• Non-visual aids (AIS transmitted by VHF, Racon, MET data, GPS, SATCOM).
• Audible aids (fog signals, horns and alarms).

These AtoN tools are critical in providing mariners with information that is precise and in real time.

They are best used in combination for validation and are often used to indicate current conditions, the position of other vessels and to provide warning of nearby risks and hazards.

Mariners have a responsibility to trust and abide by the information provided by these AtoN tools. In turn, AtoN managers have an obligation to ensure their assets are in good working order and are delivering accurate and reliable information.

Failure to comply with these obligations by either party poses a risk to navigational safety and can also lead to heavy financial penalties.

The Sealite White Paper can be downloaded here: www.sealite.com