Page 15 - Introduction to Naval Architecture

4 INTRODUCTION

equipment. The heavy loss of life in the sinking of the Estonia in 1994
is a sad example of what can happen when things go wrong.
Cargo ships may carry materials which would damage the environ-
ment if released by accident. The consequences of large oil spillages are
reported all too often. Other chemicals may pose an even greater
threat. The bunker fuel in ships is a hazard and, in the case of ferries,
the lorries on board may carry dangerous loads. Clearly those who
design, construct and operate ships have a great responsibility to the
community at large. If they fail to live up to the standards expected of
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them they are likely to be called to account .
Over the years the safety of life and cargo has prompted governments
to lay down certain conditions that must be met by ships flying their
flag, or using their ports. Because shipping is world wide there are also
international rules to be obeyed. In the case of the United Kingdom
the government department affected is the Department of Transport
and its Marine Safety Agency. International control is through the
International Maritime Organisation.
It is hoped that these few paragraphs have shown that naval
architecture can be interesting and rewarding. The reader will find the
various topics discussed in more detail in later chapters where the
fundamental aspects of the subject are covered. The references at the
end of each chapter indicate sources of further reading if it is desired
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to follow up any specific topic. A more advanced general textbook can
be consulted. This has many more references to assist the interested
reader. For comments on references see the Appendix.

References
1. Rawson, K. J. (1989) Ethics and fashion in design. TRINA.
2. Rawson, K. J. and Tupper, E. C. (1994) Basic Ship Theory. Fourth Edition,
Longman.