T&R Bulletin 3-40: Maintenance Management Program for Automated Power Plants (1986)

Modern merchant ships have been distinguished by an increase in the features of automation which can reduce the level of manning. This trend towards increased control complexity and reduced shipboard personnel does demand a high degree of reliability in propulsion system controls, steering controls, and vital auxiliary shipboard systems. To assure the required reliability, the maintenance and testing of the machinery, electrical equipment, and controls has to be managed on a continuous, active basis.