The potential implications of radio frequency identification technology on marine security

Annual General Assembly 2005 - Malmö

Section 2

The potential implications of radio frequency identification technology on marine security

Brent WAY - School of Maritime Studies, Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada

ABSTRACT

In the past, knowledge of the exact whereabouts of members of a ship's crew was generally beyond the capability of any ship’s master. However, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags are an emerging technology that may provide just such information within the proximity of a ship. An RFID tag is similar to a barcode containing a unique identifier for an asset, except that it contains a small integrated circuit chip with limited memory and a small antenna. This allows the RFID tag to be read or programmed at a distance using wireless signals. Driven by retailers such as Wal-Mart, RFID technology has rapidly evolved to allow for the accurate tracking of all types of physical assets through the supply chain. This escalating adoption of RFID technology has driven its cost down to the point where other spin-off applications are becoming feasible. In the post 9/11 marine world of the ISPS code, people are beginning to realize that RFID tags can be used to track mobile human assets, or ships' crews, just like others track physical assets. Apart from the obvious security applications, RFID technology can also alert that an emergency situation has arisen - for instance, if a member of the crew can no longer be located by the RFID system, it may be that he or she has fallen overboard. The challenge for marine industries will be how to best leverage this emerging technology within the world of the ISPS code so that it benefits seafarers without impinging on their rights and freedoms. This article will begin by examining RFID technology to reveal its implementation issues and technological limitations, along with current applications. Then before concluding, the paper will consider potential applications of RFID technology in marine security and safety.

Keywords: RFID, radio frequency identification, ship's personnel, person tracking, maritime security.