Introducing the Hazard Button Technology in IMOCA Boats
The Hazard Button technology is a new and significant advancement in offshore sailing, first implemented on IMOCA boats during The Ocean Race 2023. This innovative system is designed to reduce the risk of collisions with marine mammals—such as whales—as well as other unidentified floating objects that pose dangers to both sailors and wildlife. When a collision or near-miss occurs, sailors can manually trigger the Hazard Button to report the incident. This input is then used to inform race organizers, fellow sailors, and researchers in real time, contributing to safer navigation and better understanding of ocean hazards.
How the Hazard Button Works
When a sailor experiences a collision or near-miss with a marine mammal or an unidentified floating object, they can activate the Hazard Button to send a report. the system immediately sends a distress signal, including crucial data such as the location, time, and nature of the event. This triggers the transmission of key data—such as the location, time, and nature of the event—which is immediately shared with race organizers and other sailors, allowing them to be informed in real-time. For sailors, this information is especially valuable, as it alerts them to potential hazards in their path, allowing for more informed and safer navigation. At the same time, the collected data contributes to scientific research by helping researchers better understand the distribution, behavior, and migration routes of marine mammals populations.
A Step Toward Safer and More Sustainable Sailing
This project represents a key part of the IMOCA Class‘s commitment to making ocean racing more sustainable. By improving the understanding of where marine life is concentrated, sailors can avoid high-risk areas, reducing the likelihood of future collisions. Over time, this system could contribute to better navigation strategies and ultimately help protect vulnerable species at sea.
Long-Term Impact on Ocean Conservation
The data collected through the Hazard Button will play a pivotal role in the long-term conservation of marine mammals. By tracking these incidents, the sailing community can contribute to the development of safe navigation routes and share knowledge about the behavior of marine mammals. This could have a broader environmental impact, promoting eco-friendly practices in the maritime industry.
For more details, check the full article on IMOCA’s website.
Image credits:
Header and post photo © Antoine Auriol, Malizia and The Ocean Race. All rights reserved.