A systematic scoping review on ship accidents due to off-track manoeuvring: A systematic scoping review on ship accidents due to off-track manoeuvring.

This research aims to assess the main contributing factors that lead to a ship manoeuvring off track. For this reason, this paper reviews marine accident reports involving the failure to keep the vessel on the planned route. The study adopts the scoping review technique methodology. It started with the identification and screening of the accident reports as well as the selection of the reports based on the eligibility criteria. This was followed by the mapping and summarising of the reports based on the scope, before finally categorising the underlying factors through thematic analysis. While reviewing the accident records, it was noted that most accidents resulting from off-track manoeuvring were grounded, and in a few cases, it caused collisions with bridges, jetties, and buoys. The contributing factors to off-track manoeuvring were human factors, ship factors, and environmental factors. This study can enhance the navigation officers' awareness of the importance of staying on the course line and identify the probable cause of such occurrences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]