As the international shipping industry continues to explore measures to conserve and protect underwater life, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is proposing the future monitoring of Underwater Radiated Noise (URN), which may lead to the establishment of thresholds combined with long-term monitoring requirements for certain regions.

Far reaching impacts

Underwater noise from ships can significantly impact marine life by disrupting communication, navigation, and feeding behaviours in various species. This noise pollution can cause stress, disorientation, and even physical harm to marine animals, particularly those that rely on sound, such as whales, dolphins, and fish, leading to potential long-term consequences for their populations and ecosystems.

In the HyPNoS (Hydrodynamic Propeller Noise Monitoring System) research project, the focus was on developing and installing a working prototype of a calibrated live on-board URN monitoring system. This system provides live feedback to the crew and operator on the underwater noise emissions of their vessels during operation, allowing operational measures to be used to influence the emitted noise.

HyPNoS is installed (left) and a vibration sensor is connected to the hull above the propeller (right). (Image: SCHOTTEL)

The results showed that the IMO requirements for URN monitoring systems can be met and pointed the way for future developments, for example at the propeller design stage.

To read the full article in Marine Link click here.