An Analysis of the Utilization Status of Small-Vessel Mooring Facilities and Suggestions for Safety Improvement Measures

Purpose: This study aims to assess the safety of small-vessel mooring facilities at the Coastal Pier of Incheon Coastal Port and the Pleasure․Fishing vessel Pier of Incheon South Port, and to propose measures for improving maritime traffic flow and mooring safety in multi-use coastal ports.<br/>Methods: AIS-based GICOMS data were analyzed to evaluate vessel traffic characteristics and congestion levels. Port design standards and ten years of marine accident data were reviewed, and mooring safety was assessed using OPTIMOOR simulations under various environmental and berthing conditions.<br/>Results: Although average traffic congestion remained low, instantaneous congestion exceeded capacity during peak periods. Narrow navigable waters, frequent multi-berthing, and increased environmental loads were identified as key risk factors, increasing the likelihood of vessel collisions and damage to mooring facilities.<br/>Conclusion: The findings indicate that existing safety frameworks are insufficient for ports dominated by small vessels. Accordingly, practical improvement measures and the development of safety assessment methods specialized for small-vessel operations are required.