Abstract:
This research aims to analyze the potential utilization of unmanned aerial
vehicles (UAVs) or drones in conducting atmospheric measurement and visual inspection
in enclosed spaces on board ships without human entry, as well as to identify the technical
and operational challenges in their implementation. This study employs a descriptive
qualitative method with a case study approach based on observation, interviews, and
literature review conducted during sea practice on board MT. Hafnia Bobcat. The results
show that enclosed space entry activities still pose a high risk of accidents due to the
presence of hazardous atmospheric conditions such as oxygen deficiency, toxic gases, and
flammable gases. In addition, conventional inspection methods still require crew
members to enter confined spaces, which increases exposure to hazards and the possibility
of human error. Analysis using a Fishbone Diagram indicates that the limited
implementation of drone technology is influenced by several factors, including the lack
of crew competence in operating drones, the absence of standardized operational
procedures for UAV use in enclosed spaces, technical limitations of drones such as flight
stability and battery endurance, and environmental conditions inside enclosed spaces such
as poor lighting and complex structural layouts. Therefore, improvements are needed in
drone operator training, the development of standardized operational procedures
integrated into the Safety Management System (SMS), technological enhancement of
drones to better adapt to enclosed environments, and gradual evaluation of this technology
to improve occupational safety and reduce the risk of accidents during enclosed space
entry activities on board ships.
Keyword: Drone, Enclosed Space, Atmospheric measurement, Visual inspection, Ship
safety , Technology Development
