This guide provides a uniform format and definition of general vessel-related technical information, including ship safety data, to be used by ship owners and operators, at their option and to the extent that they consider beneficial to their operation. It is recognized that all of the data is already contained in various documents on the vessel, but normally not electronically and normally not in one location. The Ship Safety Record is designed to provide an industry-accepted common method of identifying, maintaining, and subsequently communicating the safety-related information needed for maritime operations. It is recognized that many of the data fields are not applicable for every vessel. Appendix X1 and Appendix X2 provide examples of how data elements in this guide may be used for a specific purpose, that is, the USCGs Automated Identification System (AIS) and the Advance Notice of Arrival.