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IN THIS ISSUE
1. Calling out harsh treatment
2. IACS Blue Book
3. Indian defence contracts
4. Drewry insight
5. Australian maritime safety
6. Charcoal fires
7. Red Sea attacks
8. Galaxy Leader
9. FuelEU strategies
10. Collaborative approach
11. Power supplies
12. Integrated approach
13. Human rights at sea
14. Soft skills training
15. Surveyor safety standards
Notices & Miscellany
Readers’ responses to our articles are very welcome and, where suitable, will be reproduced. Write to: contactus@themaritimeadvocate.com
1. Calling out harsh treatment
By Michael Grey
Do seafarers have any human rights, in an era where worthy folk are always shouting about this supposed entitlement for those who live safely on land? You have to wonder, when you learn about some of the disgraceful treatment meted out by the authorities around the world to those who have aroused their attention. Time after time, one learns of shocking cases where, after drugs have been found aboard a ship, in the aftermath of a casualty, a pollution incident, or even cargo-related disputes, seafarers have been treated appallingly.
Many of these cases occur in places where you sort of expect them, in countries where the rule of law is less well developed, corruption is endemic and where no sensible person would willingly enter. But even in locations where you would think that they are more “civilised,” there is no shortage of reports to the effect that the treatment of seafarers is infinitely worse than that meted out to shore-side natives of that country. We publicise cases where they are most egregious, albeit with caution because there is invariably reluctance to go too far into the public domain, less the situation of an individual is prejudiced. Some defy rationality. But one cannot ignore, for instance, the plight of the master and chief officer of a coal carrier, detained for a year in Turkey, then given 30-year sentences for their “command responsibility” (in the absence of a shred of real evidence) after narcotics were found in the cargo, and properly reported.
It was described as “outrageous” by the ITF, which points out that there was no connection found between the drug stash and those aboard ship. InterManager points to the case of a Polish master, who reported drugs detected on board to the authorities on arrival in Mexico, and was then held for 592 days without charge, with the whole crew arrested and held for three months. The association of ship managers has been collecting data on cases of criminalisation and is asking other industry organisations to come forward with any cases of which they have information, so that through collation of data, a proper picture of this nasty phenomenon can be assembled.
InterManager has a sound record of data collection; witness the valuable work done on enclosed space tragedies and lifeboat accidents, so it would surely be an appropriate vehicle for a consolidated approach throughout the international industry. The organisation has already “collected” 118 cases and determined that the situation is getting worse, with records going back to 1989. And one gruesome fact they have already determined is that no less than 63% of these cases involves the imprisonment of masters – “command responsibility” being well established. It is a sensible strategy, if the records of organisations like IFSMA, the ITF, other national unions and professional organisations and welfare agencies, along with the fine work done by people such as Deirdre Fitzpatrick, can be collected to form a far better bank of data.
Then, InterManager suggests, they would be in a good position to take this information to the IMO and raise the matter formally. On the face of it, a consolidated approach might be more useful than individual organisations trying to draw attention to individual cases. No matter how awful, they tend to be a nine-day wonder, while the wretched individuals suffer, often for years, unrepresented in foreign countries, in terrible conditions and with failing health. There is a genuine case for the human rights of this essential workforce to be properly reinforced, with a guarantee of top legal defence made available at a reasonable cost. There is something seriously wrong when those in charge of ships are held responsible for something they have no possible way of influencing, as is the case with so many of these drug smuggling cases.
They can do everything according to the book, but it is the ship against the sheer corrosive power of the narcotic cartels, and the seafarers are but the indirect casualties. You might ask why they are forced go to these dreadful ports where the cartels hold sway, and where there is every chance that the ship will be selected as a conduit for their awful trade. What could the IMO do that will not take years of sweat by the Human Element Industry Group and other well-meaning agencies? One practical suggestion would be to require owners and charterers taking cargo to and from risky places (and we know where they are) to impose a hefty surcharge, to be hypothecated to the provision of genuinely independent anti-smuggling precautions, which would mean using protective agencies which would not be in any way at the mercy of the cartels and if necessary, access to the best defence lawyers.
It would also help if those places where justice has been so lacking are publicly identified, utilising the power of shame. And all of this goes way beyond drug smuggling, to proper post casualty behaviour by authorities, down to good old extortion and corruption – “Captain, you are in big trouble.” Human rights should not be denied to anyone, and especially to those who work afloat and more people should care about this serious omission.
Michael Grey is former editor of Lloyd’s List.
2. IACS Blue Book
The International Association of Classification Societies has announced the release of the 2025 edition of its IACS Blue Book. .The latest release of the Blue Book package continues to enhance IACS’ technical support to the shipping industry through work and investment in technology, innovation, research and development both at the classification and statutory levels.
The IACS Blue Book is an electronic library of all technical resolutions adopted by IACS as a result of its technical work and remains the core reference work for the Association containing, as it does, all previous revisions of IACS publications and historical data. It is updated and published once a year. Together, these IACS publications illustrate well how the aims and objectives of IACS are delivered for the benefit of international shipping and contain:
• IACS Unified Requirements which IACS members incorporate into their rules;
• Unified Interpretations of IMO convention requirements which IACS members apply uniformly when acting on behalf of authorizing flag Administrations, unless instructed otherwise;
• Procedural Requirements governing practices among IACS members;
• Recommendations relating to adopted resolutions that are not necessarily matters of Class but which IACS considers would be helpful to offer some advice to the marine industry;
• Quality Documents containing QSCS (IACS’ Quality System Certification Scheme) description, Quality Management System Requirements, Audit Requirements, ACB (Accredited Certification Bodies) requirements and other quality procedures;
• IACS charter and IACS procedures which define the purpose, aim and working procedures of the Association.
These publications are available for download, free of charge, at https://iacs.org.uk/resolutions/blue-book.
3. Indian defence contracts
Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has been discussing its growing role in advancing India’s defence capabilities through its participation in major new construction projects for the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, thereby taking a major step forward in realizing a self-reliant defence manufacturing capability, as envisioned under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Recently, ‘steel-cutting’ took place for several major new construction vessels, as mentioned below, all of which are being classified by the Indian Register of Shipping. The vessels include:
• Second ‘Fleet Support Ship’ at L&T Shipbuilding
• First ‘Next Generation Missile Vessel’ at Cochin Shipyard Ltd
• Second ‘Next Generation Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel’ and first Coast Guard ‘Fast Patrol Vessels’ at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders .
• Keel laying of the Third Cadet Training Ship at L&T.
The concurrent commencement of production of these modern Naval and Coast Guard platforms, including the complex Next Generation Missile Vessels and Fleet Support Ships, spread across multiple shipyards, presents a unique challenge, which will test IRS’s technical capabilities and capacity to the fullest.
4. Drewry insight
Drewry’s Global Container Port Throughput Index increased 1.6% month on month in November, 4.0% higher year on year.The rolling 12-month growth rate for global port handling softened to 5.6% and the year to date growth to November was 6.1%. Latin America recorded the highest growth – up 11.3% year to date, and North America close behind at 11.1%. According to Drewry’s Nowcast model, the Global Port Throughput Index is anticipated to have risen 1.6% MoM in December to 118.0 points.
Major ports across China, including Shanghai, Ningbo and Qingdao experienced congestion due to the pre-holiday cargo rush and weather issues which contributed to high yard utilisation. The Greater China Container Port Throughput Index rose 4.0% month on month to 120.8 points in November, up 3.1% year on year. On an annual comparison, volumes at Ningbo and Tianjin were well ahead of 2023, up 14.4% and 27.3% respectively.
The North American Container Port Throughput Index rose 3.2% month on month in November to 116.4 points (+12.7% YoY). The rolling 12-month growth rate increased to 10.4%, nearly double the global growth of 5.6%. West Coast ports continued to attract significant volumes in November compared to the previous year on year, except for strike-hit Vancouver where volumes were down 17% month on month.
The European Container Port Throughput Index fell 2.5% in November to 101.9 points, but remained up 6.4% year on year. The rolling 12-month growth rate improved to 4.5%, the closest it has been to the global average in over two years. The gap in growth between the sub-regions flipped in November, with the rolling 12-month average growth rate in North Europe (5.2%) higher than South Europe (3.7%) for the first time in over two years.
5. Australian maritime safety
In a new viewpoint piece Holman Fenwick Willan explores changes to Australian maritime safety regulations which are due to take place from June 1, 2025. All Australian domestic commercial vessels (DCVs) are required to implement a safety management system (SMS) which complies with Marine Order 504 (MO504). Following public consultations on proposed changes, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) will implement final revised changes to MO504 aimed at enhancing safety outcomes and making SMS requirements clearer, more practical, and better suited to the diverse range of DCVs in Australia.
The proposed changes will apply to all owners, operators, masters, and crew of DCVs. There is sufficient time before implementation for DCVs to update their SMS and implement necessary adjustments to comply with the new AMSA standards.
For further information see the Insights section on the HFW website.
6. Charcoal fires
The shipping industry is taking proactive steps to implement improved safety measures for transporting charcoal, ahead of mandatory IMO regulations in 2026. In response to a series of devastating fires caused by improperly handled charcoal, shippers should be ready to see carriers phase in new tighter regulations this year.
“We’ve seen too many preventable fires onboard vessels caused by improper handling of charcoal,” said Joe Kramek, President and CEO of the World Shipping Council (WSC). “These fires endanger crew and cargo and have had tragic consequences,” Kramek added. The new regulations require all charcoal shipments to be declared as dangerous goods under the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. There are also new treatment, packing and stowage requirements for shipments of charcoal. The World Shipping Council has been instrumental in negotiating and developing these significant improvements to international regulations. “We’re eager to see the new regulations implemented as the status quo hasn’t been adequate at keeping crew, cargo and vessels safe,” Joe Kramek said. “Treating all charcoal as dangerous goods ensures uniform safety standards and gives everyone involved – from shippers to carriers – the tools and clarity needed to prevent future tragedies”. The World Shipping Council, with IGP&I and TT Club have created a quick reference guide to ensure shippers are well informed about the changes.
7. Red Sea attacks
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) called this week on Yemen’s Houthis to halt attacks on all commercial ships in the Red Sea, to de-escalate threats to shipping and release seafarers who continue to be held hostage.
On Sunday, the Houthis declared they would suspend attacks on non-Israeli vessels following the new Gaza ceasefire—while maintaining threats to Israeli-owned or -flagged ships until all phases of the ceasefire agreement are implemented. The group also announced a conditional lifting of ‘sanctions’ against ships linked to Israel, the United States, and Britain, depending on how the ceasefire progresses.
This announcement follows hundreds of Houthi missile and drone attacks on ships transiting the Red Sea, the sinking of two vessels, killing at least four seafarers, and destabilising one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes.
“For too long, seafarers operating in these waters have been forced to endure unacceptable risks,” said Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary.
“The missile attack on the True Confidence is perhaps the most sobering reminder that promises alone do not protect lives. We need a permanent de-escalation to be confirmed now.
“We call on the Houthis to immediately end all hostilities, to release all crews currently being held captive and provide concrete guarantees that no other seafarer will suffer the same fate. Until that happens, shipping companies and charterers must take every possible step to avoid putting seafarers’ lives at risk in this region.”
Referring to the detention of the crew of the Galaxy Leader, “The wellbeing of the seafarer hostages must remain a priority amid these evolving developments,” said David Heindel, ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair and President of the Seafarers International Union (SIU). “We urge the Houthi leadership to take immediate steps toward the release of all captive seafarers—this is an urgent and essential matter.”
Despite the Houthi statements, many in the industry warn that the Red Sea trade route remains “too risky” for the foreseeable future. The ITF urges shipping companies and charterers to divert vessels away from the danger zone until seafarers’ security can be assured.
“The ITF remains committed to collaborating with governments, industry stakeholders, and all relevant parties to achieve a lasting solution,” said Heindel. “However, until clear and verifiable assurances are in place to ensure the safe passage of ships through the Red Sea, we urge the industry to prioritise the safety of seafarers above all else. Their wellbeing should never be compromised for commercial considerations.”
The ITF welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, stressing the need for full compliance from both parties, immediate humanitarian relief for Gaza, and the release of all hostages.
The region’s fragile security cannot withstand more broken promises—this pivotal moment should pave the way for long-term stability and protection of civilians, including transport workers, throughout the broader region, the organisation said.
8. Galaxy Leader release
Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Arsenio Dominguez has welcomed the release of the crew of the Galaxy Leader, after more than a year in captivity.
“I welcome the release of the 25-member crew of the Galaxy Leader, who have endured over a year of captivity since they were taken hostage in November 2023 while transiting the Red Sea. This is a moment of profound relief for all of us – not only for the crew and their families, but also to the wider maritime community.
I am grateful for all the Member States, regional entities and international partners whose steadfast support and strategic engagement were pivotal in securing the crew’s freedom, and to ensuring their wellbeing.
Today’s breakthrough is a testament to the power of collective diplomacy and dialogue, recognising that innocent seafarers must not become collateral victims in wider geopolitical tensions. It is also a return to operations in the Red Sea as we have been accustomed to and upholding of the freedom of navigation.
IMO will continue to rigorously uphold its commitment to the safety of seafarers worldwide, who continue to face risks in their essential work.”
9. FuelEU strategies
The FuelEU Maritime regulation provides shipping operators with various compliance options to meet the required GHG intensity of ships over 5,000 GT transporting cargo or passengers in the EU or EEA. A new DNV white paper comprehensively analyses a set of compliance strategies for an 80,000 dwt bulk carrier in a case study.
“Simulating outcomes for a theoretical case-study vessel demonstrates how different approaches impact expenses and FuelEU compliance over a 20-year period,” says Ola Gundersen Skåre, Consultant, Environment Advisory at DNV and lead author of the paper. See the DNV website for more details.
10. Collaborative approach
The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) has announced a strategic development in meeting the needs of its ever-growing global membership.
Following a productive INTERCARGO Quality Panel meeting with RightShip on 25 November 2024, both organisations have made significant progress in addressing member-raised concerns and developing solutions for the bulk carrier sector, while reinforcing their shared commitment to advancing operational standards in the bulk carrier sector. This collaborative approach is essential for developing effective and pragmatic solutions that enhance safety, transparency and efficiency across the maritime sector.
The next planned meeting is already confirmed for Q1 2025, underlining the long-term nature of this collaboration.
In response to the Quality Panel’s increasing scope of work, INTERCARGO is implementing a new structure starting January 2025. The Panel will operate through two regional divisions to better accommodate members across different time zones. The Western division will be led by Metaxia Psalti of Neda Maritime as Chair, with Tasos Karlis of Virono serving as Vice-Chair. The Eastern division will be headed by Debashis Sen of Swire Bulk as Chair, supported by Capt. Uttam Kumar Jaiswal of Pacific Basin as Vice-Chair.
“This strategic restructuring and our enhanced dialogue with RightShip demonstrate INTERCARGO’s commitment to proactively addressing our members’ needs,” said Capt. Uttam Kumar Jaiswal, Vice-Chairman of INTERCARGO. “By strengthening these sector partnerships and expanding our global reach, we’re better positioned to tackle critical challenges in vetting inspections, ship-port interfaces, and regulatory compliance.
In parallel, INTERCARGO reaffirms its confidence in established institutional organisations within the industry such as international regulatory bodies and classification societies, recognising their fundamental role in ensuring the long-term equitable governance and advancement of global maritime standards.
Through enhanced dialogue and strategic initiatives, INTERCARGO aims to address the evolving challenges faced by the bulk carrier sector while maintaining a focus on quality, safety and environmental stewardship.”
Concluding, Captain Jaiswal stated “The organisation continues to welcome new members, encouraging shipowners, operators, and managers to participate and contribute to the organisation’s meetings, discussions, working panels and groups.”
11. Power supplies
The shift towards decarbonisation has placed a spotlight on reducing emissions from sea going vessels while at ports, where vessels often rely on auxiliary engines that contribute to GHG emissions. Onshore Power Supply (OPS), commonly referred to as cold ironing or shore-to-ship power has emerged as a promising solution, allowing vessels to connect to a land-based electrical grid while at berth, enabling their onboard generators to be switched off. This significantly reduces NOx (nitrogen oxides) and SOx (sulphur oxides) emissions, and particulate matter in port areas, contributing to cleaner air and healthier port communities.
Recognising the critical role of OPS in achieving global decarbonisation targets, the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published recommendation, Rec. 182, a comprehensive framework to support the effective adoption of OPS systems. This recommendation provides detailed guidance for ship designers, builders, operators, and owners on integrating OPS systems into both newbuilds and retrofits, while addressing the technical and operational challenges associated with its implementation. This initiative not only aligns with the industry’s environmental and safety objectives but also supports the International Maritime Organization’s MSC.1/Circ.1675—Interim Guidelines on the Safe Operation of Onshore Power Supply (OPS) Service in Port for Ships Engaged on International Voyages. By emphasising interoperability, safety, and efficiency, it aims to ensure a seamless integration of this technology and outlines the following aspects to facilitate its adoption:
Ship Requirements for OPS: Ships engaged in international voyages should be equipped with ship-side installations capable of accepting shore power. This includes incoming power receptacles, shore connection switchgear, and necessary protections to ensure compatibility with shore-side systems.
Ship-to-Shore Connection Protocols: The recommendation outlines specific protocols for the connection of ship-side and shore-side systems, emphasizing the need for dedicated ship-side circuit installations to manage the connection and disconnection of power safely.
Testing Procedures for First Connection: At the first call at a shore supply point, ships should undergo mandatory tests, including visual inspections, insulation resistance measurements, functional tests of protection devices, and integration tests to ensure proper operation between ship and shore installations.
Periodic Testing Requirements: If the time between repeated port calls does not exceed 12 months and no modifications have been made, only limited verification tests are required. However, if the interval exceeds 12 months, comprehensive testing as outlined in the document should be conducted.
Operational Safety Measures: The recommendation emphasizes the importance of safety precautions during OPS operations, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adherence to “lock out/tag out” procedures, and ensuring effective communication between ship and shore personnel during power connection and disconnection.
Documentation of OPS Procedures: Ships are required to maintain detailed documentation of OPS operation procedures, including circuit diagrams, compatibility assessments, and emergency shutdown protocols. This documentation is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient operations.
Pre-Connection Checklist: A comprehensive pre-connection checklist should be completed prior to connecting to shore power. This checklist should cover operational limitations, communication methods, and contact information for personnel in charge (PICs) to ensure all safety measures are in place.
Maintenance and Testing Plans: The planned maintenance programme for OPS systems should include periodic testing and maintenance procedures to ensure ongoing reliability and safety of the equipment. This includes regular inspections and functional tests of all critical components.
Quality Assurance of Shore Supply: The recommendation highlights the necessity of assessing the quality of the shore power supply, including total harmonic distortion (THD) and voltage stability, to prevent potential damage to shipboard electrical systems and ensure a reliable power source during operations.
This recommendation addresses a long-standing need for standardised guidance to support the adoption of OPS systems, as voiced by maritime stakeholders. By aligning with the industry’s overarching goal of reducing ship-related pollution and enhancing operational safety, IACS aims to contribute to the development of sustainable ports and better shipping practices.
Commenting on the recommendation, IACS Machinery Panel Chair, Amir LOTFOLAZADEH stated, “The introduction of Rec. 182 underscores IACS’ commitment to advancing sustainable and safe maritime practices. We recognize the importance of shore power in achieving pollution reduction goals and are confident this guidance will drive the adoption of OPS systems industry-wide.”.
More details are available on the IACS website.
12. Integrated approach
The European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) is calling for the establishment of a new sustainable innovation partnership to strengthen Europe’s water, marine and maritime sectors and ecosystems. The Call for Proposals invites consortia of organisations and industry leaders bringing together water-related education, research and business to put forward their vision and strategy for EIT Water. The EIT is an integral part of Horizon Europe, the EU’s research and innovation framework programme.
While Europe is home to abundant water resources, challenges remain in significant fragmentation across ecosystem management, and overuse of natural resources. Latest statistics paint an alarming picture with approximately 38 percent of the European population affected by water scarcity, impacting 29 percent of the territory. The economic cost is substantial, ranging from EUR 2 billion to EUR 9 billion, burdening European citizens.
The EIT will develop an integrated approach across freshwater, marine and maritime sectors and ecosystems. EIT Water will support entrepreneurial education and skills development, innovation projects as well as the business creation and commercialisation of new technologies, products and services. Core to the EIT Model, the new KIC will serve as a pan-European partnership and strengthen capacities addressing Europe’s regional innovation divide. EIT Water will become the EIT’s tenth Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC), partnerships that have demonstrated remarkable impact driving the creation of new technologies, tackling global challenges and reinforcing Europe’s competitiveness and sustainable development.
13. Human rights at sea
Splash 24/7 website has highlighted a new EU initiative on human rights at sea. The European Union is investing in growing protections for persons at sea with the newly established BlueRights project.
The study investigates how the most fundamental universal human rights – the right to life, liberty and health can also be granted to people at sea, and what states and other actors must do to achieve this goal.
The project will run for four years and will bring together academics and practitioners working at the interface of the law of the sea and human rights. At the time of application, the network comprised 73 people from 38 different countries working for universities, international organisations, public authorities and NGOs.
“While the oceans are attracting growing attention, people at sea still receive little consideration by stakeholders, scholars and the public at large. The frequent violations of their most basic human rights, which safeguard their life, liberty and health, often go unseen and unpunished,” the backers of the project in introducing the study, warning that death, slavery, unlawful arrest and other human rights violations result in the practical negation of the universality of human rights – the idea that all persons are equally entitled to human rights – advocated by the European Union and the United Nations,“ Splash 24/7 says.
The action aims to assess, from a legal perspective, how human rights can be enjoyed also by people at sea and by all people at sea, Splash 24/7 says.. It will aim It will answer two fundamental questions: firstly, what is the content and scope of the rights to life, liberty and health when applied at sea and secondly who is responsible for protecting them.
14. Soft skills training
The maritime industry is experiencing a pivotal shift, with the rising recognition that soft skills are just as critical as technical expertise in ensuring the safety, effectiveness, and overall wellbeing of seafarers, according to the Nautical Institute.
As awareness grows around crew mental health and the human element in maritime operations, industry leaders are acknowledging that soft skills, such as communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence, are essential in fostering a safer and more productive working environment.
There is no doubt that seafarers must have the technical skills needed to carry out their daily tasks, but today, the value of soft skills is increasingly appreciated for their role in enhancing operational safety and efficiency – both of which directly impact the bottom line.
By investing in soft skills training, the maritime sector can not only improve vessel operations but also address key challenges such as crew attraction and retention. According to a Gallup survey, soft skills training has been shown to boost productivity by 12% and improve workplace morale by 27%, and with safety and talent attraction among the industry’s top concerns, leveraging soft skills presents an opportunity that cannot be overlooked.
Steven Gosling, Head of Information and Publications at The Nautical Institute, explains, “While the Nautical Institute offers a range of courses which have been developed to ensure seafarers are technically competent, we are of the opinion that soft skills have an equally vital role to play in the smooth running of vessels. Communication, leadership and emotional intelligence enhance teamwork and mutual support which can lead to fewer errors, greater safety and crew wellbeing.”
Carole Davis, Professor Emeritus at Warsash Maritime School, Solent University, firmly believes that soft skills take the human element to a new level and their adoption creates change for the better in workplaces where they are implemented. “Soft skills should be seen as the golden thread running through professional life. In complex systems, both operational and strategic, soft skills are essential since the key driver of human performance is social context. It is also about creating, or facilitating, teachable moments within a reflective environment.”
Having been tasked by the United Kingdom Maritime and Coastguard Agency to lead a review of human element leadership and management courses, Davis realised there was a need for an ‘informative and encouraging handbook aimed at colleagues teaching soft skills’.
The Nautical Institute is publishing Professor Davis’ book, ‘Developing Soft Skills in Mariners’ aimed at, among others, course designers and facilitators as well as maritime organisations seeking tangible outcomes from investing in soft skills training, and includes:
• Soft skills definition and discussion
• Tips for creating effective learning environments
• Experiential learning and handling sensitive issues
• Facilitator assessment and evaluation methods
See the Nautical Institute website for more information.
15. Surveyor safety standards
Protecting Class surveyors who are often faced with various occupational health and safety (OHS) risks, requires robust measures to address the challenges they face during inspections and surveys.
Recognising the critical need to address these risks, the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published guidelines on safety standards for work, Rec. 184. With a focus on collaboration and sharing of experiences, this comprehensive document offers a structured approach aimed at enhancing safety practices, reducing incidents, and promoting uniform safety practices across the industry.
Designed to creating safer working conditions for surveyors and all personnel engaged in maritime operations, these guidelines outline critical measures to mitigate risks and addresses key areas such as risk assessments and situational awareness, ensuring that they are equipped to handle the hazards they may encounter.
By introducing these guidelines, IACS aims to enhance OHS standards, prioritising the safety and well-being of surveyors and all associated personnel. This initiative supports the development of consistent OHS practices across classification societies and contributes to a safer and more sustainable maritime industry.
Key highlights of the guidelines include:
- Comprehensive Risk Management: The document provides guidance for surveyors to exercise appropriate risk assessment and situational awareness prior to commencing work for prevention of accidents, near-misses, injury or ill health to surveyors, associated personnel and damage to property.
- Increased Focus on Collaboration: IACS encourages surveyors to share experiences and safety challenges to improve the overall safety culture across the maritime industry.
- Fitness for Work: The guidelines emphasize the importance of physical and mental readiness, including undertaking all periodical medical checkups required by their society.
- Fatigue Management: The guidelines stress the importance of ensuring adequate rest to prevent fatigue, which can impair performance and increase the risk of accidents.
- Empowering Surveyors to Use Stop Work Authority: Surveyors are empowered to stop work if they believe safety conditions are at risk, ensuring that corrective measures are taken before continuing with tasks.
- Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The guidelines mandate the use of appropriate PPE and provide instructions on the maintenance and replacement of worn or damaged gear.
- Standardised Safety Practices: The guidelines reinforce the importance of uniform safety practices, ensuring that surveyors adhere to a consistent set of safety protocols regardless of the work environment.
The guidelines further address activities that pose elevated OHS risks for surveyors, providing tailored recommendations to enhance safety. These include working at height, transfers between boats, and performing surveys in confined spaces or using rafts. The document also covers managing pressure tests, control of stored/electrical energy, and participation in sea trials. Additionally, it highlights precautions for exposure to extreme weather conditions, hazardous materials, and travel-related safety concerns, ensuring surveyors are equipped to navigate the varied risks associated with their roles.
The guidelines are now available on the IACS website and serve as a valuable resource for surveyors, classification societies, and industry stakeholders aiming to uphold the highest standards of safety.
Notices and Miscellany
Mare Forum
8th Mare Forum Singapore 2025 —28 February, Novotel Singapore .
For details see https://www.mareforum.com/events
Xeneta
Data and intelligence organisation Xeneta has announced changes to its Board of Directors. Marie-Pierre Rogers has been appointed as the new Chair, succeeding Birger Magnus. Additionally, Doug Friedman, Robert Toms, and Jesper Kjaedegaard have stepped down as part of the Board’s consolidation.
Michael Allen comments
I always enjoy reading Michael Grey’s articles. In “Who’s for dinner”, he referred to “different ships, different long splices”. We had a similar expression in the RN but it was “different ships, different cap tallies”.
Michael Shea comments
I always enjoy reading your Blog, but I totally disagree with your perspective of green fuel. It’s not a question of whether we should reduce the use of fossil fuel, it’s a question that we must or forget this planet.
I live in Florida, and we’ve experienced increased hurricanes while watching droughts and terrible forest fires, even in Los Angeles. The world is tragic, drastically changing. A(my house got flooded. last year). Last year was the hottest, warmest temperatures on record. Just another thought on the subject.
Neil Baird comments
I was delighted to read your article on the realities of the energy debate. Spot on. The world is awakening but far too slowly. The cost of following the green dream is staggering. Keep well, and productive!
Davies Turner
Davies Turner has nominated an additional head of trade for ocean freight development. The company has appointed Guillaume Bouyer as head of strategic accounts – ISC & South East Asia within its ocean freight forwarding department.
ICS publication
The new and improved edition of the ICS Guide to Helicopter/Ship Operations provides up-to-date and practical guidance for shipping companies and crew based on the latest best practices from maritime and aviation experts. The sixth edition is now available in print and e-book formats.
Readers can buy credits for the associated e-learning course Helicopter Operation Procedures for Ships at the same time as purchasing the print book.
Shearwater appointment
Shearwater Law, the global maritime and commodities law firm, has appointed David Richards as a Director in its Maritime Practice Group, bringing nearly two decades of expertise in maritime law and P&I claims management to the firm’s expanding team.
He joins Shearwater Law following his role as Deputy Global Head of P&I Claims and Head of Legal & Expertise at an IG P&I Club, where he oversaw global mutual P&I claims and led the club’s expertise teams.
Please notify the Editor of your appointments, promotions, new office openings and other important happenings: contactus@themaritimeadvocate.com
And finally,
With thanks to Paul Dixon
WISE KIDS
TEACHER: How old were you on your last birthday?
STUDENT: Seven.
TEACHER: How old will you be on your next birthday?
STUDENT: Nine.
TEACHER: That’s impossible.
STUDENT: No, it isn’t, Teacher. I’m eight today.
TEACHER: George, go to the map and find North America.
GEORGE: Here it is!
TEACHER: Correct. Now, class, who discovered America?
CLASS: George!
TEACHER: Willy, name one important thing we have today that we didn’t have ten years ago.
WILLY: Me!
TEACHER: Tommy, why do you always get so dirty?
TOMMY: Well, I’m a lot closer to the ground then you are.
TEACHER: Why are you late?
WEBSTER: Because of the sign.
TEACHER: What sign?
WEBSTER: The one that says, “School Ahead, Go Slow.”
SILVIA: Dad, can you write in the dark?
FATHER: I think so. What do you want me to write?
SYLVIA: Your name on this report card.
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Maritime Advocate Online is a fortnightly digest of news and views on the maritime industries, with particular reference to legal issues and dispute resolution. It is published to over 20,000 individual subscribers each edition and republished within firms and organisations all over the maritime world. It is the largest publication of its kind. We estimate it goes to around 60,000 readers in over 120 countries.
