Introduction
Safe Working Culture on Board Ships ~
A very effective way to prevent accidents is to EXAMINE likelihood of injury, damage or loss of life.
Examine WHAT can be done to prevent such injury, damage or loss.
Identify unsafe Procedures and Hazards that may have become accepted as a NORMAL practice.
Safety awareness ensures the Best Practice is ALWAYS followed.
Will raise awareness of the crew to the DANGERS surrounding them while at work.
Factors influencing the Development of a Credible Safety Culture:
Attitude to work
Encouragement in promoting safety and prevention of accidents
Recruitment of competent crew
Working hours and fatigue
Shore based management Support
Commercial pressures
Cutting corners to save money
Solutions to ensure the development of a effective Safe Working Culture:
Training and Drills
Sharing near miss experiences
Encouraging crew to think and contribute ideas
Encourage crew to challenge decisions
Encourage to plan for the unexpected
In simple words:
Be aware
Be alert
Keep it simple
Use common sense
Sustain the process of Risk Assessment
Document TOOL BOX meetings.
GUIDELINE TO ON BOARD SAFETY
Ensure adequate illumination at work place.
Lash and Secure all loose equipment especially prior heavy weather.
All passages and exits to be kept clear always.
Warning Notices to be put up and guards to be installed when floor plates are removed for any work.
While working on elevated places, all safety precautions to be observed. Inspect ladders / lifting gear, use safety belt, have assistance and complete working aloft checklist.
Clean up any Oil Spill immediately.
Always Isolate and Check Circuits prior any work on switchgear and motors.
All E/Room personnel should have knowledge of all Escape Routes from the E/Room and should be able to distinguish the various alarms with special reference to CO2 alarm.
Never try to lift very heavy objects on your own. Use Lifting Equipment or get assistance.
Use correct sized spanners to avoid injury to user & damage to fastenings.
Duct Keel Entrances and Steering Compartment Entrance to be kept closed and securely dogged down when not in use.
Reference ~ COSWP for Merchant Seafarer's-2015 & MAIB (Marine Accident Investigation Bureau) reports.
