DETERMINATION OF RISK LEVELS IN THE SOUTHERN AEGEAN REGION IN TERMS OF SHIP ACCIDENTS USING GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS)

The aim of this study is to determine the risk levels of the marine areas in the Southern part of Aegean Region related to ship accidents using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). In this context the spatial analysis was performed using multiple spatial data provided by Turkish Main Search and Rescue Coordination Center (TMSRCC). A total of 130 ship accidents involving 9 different ship types were included to carry out risk assessment process. The location distribution of ship accidents was analyzed with MapInfo 8.0 software, and then risky areas and risk levels were identified in accordance with the accident frequencies. It is concluded that the accidents frequently occur in yachts and listing/capsizing are the most frequent accidents. As a result, Bodrum and Fethiye have been identified as very high risk (VHR) zones depending on the number of ship accidents.