Competency 1
1. What is occupational safety?
Occupational safety is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive work environment,
reducing absenteeism due to illness or injury, and fostering a positive workplace culture.
Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to prioritize the safety of their employees and
create conditions that minimize the risk of harm in the workplace.
Key aspects of occupational safety include:
1) Risk Assessment;2)Safety Policies and Procedures;3)Training and education;4) PPE; 5)
Emergency Preparedness;6) Health and Wellness Programs;7) Regulatory Compliance;8)
Continuous Improvement.
2. What is risk \ hazard? What seafarers’ risks \ hazards do you know?
Hazard:
A hazard is any source or situation that has the potential to cause harm, damage, or adverse
effects.
Hazards can be physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, or psychosocial in nature.
Examples of hazards in the workplace include moving machinery, exposure to toxic chemicals,
noise, repetitive strain, and workplace stress.
Risk:
Risk is the likelihood or probability that a particular hazard will lead to harm or an adverse
event.
It involves assessing the potential consequences of a hazard and the likelihood of those
consequences occurring.
Risk is often expressed as a combination of the severity of the harm and the likelihood of its
occurrence.
1)Vessel Operations:
Hazards: Collisions, groundings, capsizing.
Risks: The risk of accidents during navigation, berthing, and anchoring.
2)Weather Conditions:
Hazards: Storms, rough seas, extreme temperatures.
Risks: Adverse weather conditions can pose risks to the safety of the vessel and crew.
3)Chemical Exposure:
Hazards: Exposure to hazardous chemicals during cargo handling.
Risks: Health risks associated with exposure to toxic substances or dangerous goods.
4)Mechanical Hazards:
Hazards: Machinery and equipment on board.
Risks: The risk of injuries related to the operation and maintenance of ship machinery.
5)Confined Spaces:
Hazards: Enclosed or confined spaces on the ship.
Risks: The risk of accidents, such as asphyxiation or injuries, when working in confined spaces.
6)Fatigue and Stress:
Hazards: Long working hours, isolation, and demanding schedules.
Risks: Increased risk of accidents, errors, and adverse health effects due to fatigue and stress.
7)Piracy and Security Threats:
Hazards: Piracy, theft, and security threats.
Risks: The risk of harm to the crew and vessel due to criminal activities.
8)Fire and Explosion:
Hazards: Combustible materials, fuel, and machinery.
Risks: The risk of fires or explosions on board, which can lead to serious consequences.
3.What is MLC? What are the main aims of MLC?
MLC stands for the Maritime Labour Convention, which is an international labor standard
adopted by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The MLC, 2006, came into force on
August 20, 2013, and it sets out the rights and principles for decent working conditions for
seafarers worldwide. The convention aims to achieve fair competition and secure decent living
and working conditions for seafarers on board ships.
The main aims of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) include:
1)Minimum Standards for Seafarers:
The MLC establishes minimum working and living standards for seafarers, covering a wide range
of issues such as employment contracts, working hours, repatriation, accommodation,
recreational facilities, and health and safety.
2)Ensuring Fair Employment Practices:
The convention seeks to ensure fair and transparent employment practices for seafarers. It
outlines the rights and responsibilities of both employers (shipowners) and seafarers, including
the right to a safe and secure workplace, fair wages, and social security.
3)Promoting Social Dialogue:
MLC encourages social dialogue between shipowners and seafarers' representatives to address
and resolve labor-related issues. It recognizes the importance of collective bargaining and
effective communication between employers and seafarers.
4)Protection of Seafarers' Rights:
The convention emphasizes the protection of seafarers' rights, including the right to organize
and bargain collectively, the right to fair wages, and the right to decent working and living
conditions.
5)Improved Quality of Life on Board:
MLC includes provisions for improving the quality of life on board ships. This involves standards
for accommodation, recreational facilities, and access to medical care, ensuring that seafarers
have a reasonable quality of life while at sea.
6)Preventing Exploitation and Abuse:
The convention aims to prevent the exploitation and abuse of seafarers by setting clear
standards and guidelines for employment conditions. It establishes mechanisms for addressing
and rectifying grievances.
7)Global Application:
MLC is a global standard that applies to all ships engaged in international voyages, as well as
ships that operate in the territorial waters of MLC ratifying countries. This ensures that seafarers
worldwide benefit from consistent and standardized working conditions.
4)What are the main titles of MLC?
The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), is organized into three main
titles
Title 1: Minimum Requirements for Seafarers to Work on a Ship:
Title 1 sets out the minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship, covering issues such
as minimum age, medical fitness, qualifications, and training. It establishes the conditions that
seafarers must meet to be eligible for employment on ships.
Title 2: Conditions of Employment:
Title 2 focuses on the conditions of employment for seafarers and includes detailed provisions
related to employment agreements, wages, hours of work and rest, leave entitlements, and
repatriation. It aims to ensure fair and transparent employment practices and protect the rights
of seafarers.
Title 3: Accommodation, Recreational Facilities, Food and Catering:
Title 3 addresses the living conditions on board ships. It covers standards for accommodation,
recreational facilities, food and catering, and health and safety. The goal is to improve the
quality of life for seafarers during their time at sea and ensure that they have access to
adequate facilities and services.
5)What is the complaint procedure under MLC?
The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), establishes a complaint procedure to
address violations or alleged non-compliance with the convention.
Shipboard Complaint Procedures:
Ships are required to have procedures on board that allow seafarers to make complaints to the
master regarding any matter of concern. This shipboard complaint procedure is intended to
provide a means for seafarers to address issues at the workplace level.
Seafarer's Right to Complain:
Seafarers have the right to make a complaint to the master regarding any matter that affects
their employment or working conditions. The complaint can be related to non-compliance with
the MLC or other applicable laws and regulations.
Investigation by the Master:
The master is required to investigate the complaint promptly and take appropriate measures to
resolve the matter. This may involve addressing the concern directly or taking corrective actions
to ensure compliance with the MLC.
Access to External Complaint Procedures:
If the seafarer is not satisfied with the outcome of the shipboard complaint procedure or if the
matter is not resolved within a reasonable time, the seafarer has the right to access external
complaint procedures.
Access to National Authorities:
Seafarers can lodge a complaint with the competent national authorities of the flag state (the
country where the ship is registered) or the port state (the country where the ship is currently
located). The complaint should be submitted in a manner that ensures confidentiality and
protection against retaliation.
Investigation by National Authorities:
The competent national authorities are responsible for investigating complaints and taking
appropriate measures to address non-compliance with the MLC. This may involve inspections,
inquiries, and enforcement actions.
6)What are the main provisions of Drug and Alcohol Policy?
Drug and alcohol policies are established by organizations to address and manage the use of
substances that can impair an individual's ability to perform their job safeProhibition of
Substance Abuse:
Policies typically include a clear statement prohibiting the unauthorized use, possession,
distribution, or sale of illegal drugs or controlled substances on company premises or during
work hours.
Alcohol Use Restrictions:
Policies often address the responsible use of alcohol, specifying that employees should not be
under the influence of alcohol during working hours or on company premises.
Pre-Employment and Random Testing:
Many organizations include provisions for pre-employment drug and alcohol testing as part of
the hiring process. Random testing may also be conducted to deter substance abuse and ensure
ongoing compliance.
Reasonable Suspicion Testing:
Policies may outline procedures for conducting drug and alcohol testing based on reasonable
suspicion. :
Post-Incident Testing
After workplace accidents or incidents, policies may require drug and alcohol testing to
determine if substance use may have contributed to the event.
Confidentiality:
Drug and alcohol policies often emphasize the importance of maintaining confidentiality
regarding testing results and related information. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs):
Some policies may include information about available employee assistance programs or
resources to help employees seeking assistance with substance abuse issues.
Consequences for Violations:
Policies generally outline the consequences for violating the drug and alcohol policy, which may
include disciplinary actions, up to and including termination.
Legal Compliance:
Drug and alcohol policies may reference compliance with relevant laws and regulations,
ensuring that the organization follows legal requirements related to substance abuse in the
workplace.ly and effectively.
7)What are the sources of seafarers’ rights?
Seafarers' rights are derived from a combination of international conventions, national laws,
and industry-specific agreements. Here are the main sources of seafarers' rights:
International Maritime Organization (IMO) Conventions:
The IMO, a specialized agency of the United Nations, plays a central role in developing and
maintaining international maritime conventions. Conventions such as the Maritime Labour
Convention (MLC), International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and
Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), and others outline the rights and standards for seafarers.
Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006):
The MLC, 2006, is a comprehensive international labor standard that sets out the rights and
principles for decent working conditions for seafarers. It covers a wide range of issues, including
employment contracts, working hours, accommodation, health and safety, and social security.
International Labor Organization (ILO) Conventions:
The ILO has adopted several conventions addressing labor-related issues in the maritime sector.
Apart from the MLC, other relevant conventions include the Work in Fishing Convention, 2007
(No. 188), which covers the rights of fishers, and the Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention
(Revised), 2003 (No. 185).
National Laws and Regulations:
Seafarers' rights are also protected and regulated by the laws of individual countries. Each flag
state (the country where a ship is registered) may have its own laws and regulations governing
the employment conditions, health, and safety of seafarers on ships flying its flag.
Bilateral and Multilateral Agreements:
Some countries may enter into bilateral or multilateral agreements to harmonize standards and
protect the rights of seafarers. These agreements can cover issues such as recognition of
certificates, working conditions, and social security.
Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs):
Seafarers may be covered by collective bargaining agreements negotiated between employers
(shipowners or shipping companies) and seafarers' unions or associations. CBAs often address
specific terms and conditions of employment, including wages, working hours, and leave.
Flag State and Port State Control:
Flag states are responsible for ensuring that ships under their flag comply with international
regulations. Port state control, exercised by countries where a ship enters a port, also plays a
role in ensuring compliance with international standards, including the rights of seafarers.
International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) Agreements:
The ITF negotiates and enforces collective agreements on behalf of seafarers. ITF agreements,
often referred to as ITF-approved agreements, set out minimum employment conditions and
standards for ships.
8). What is right \ duty? What seafarers’ rights do you know?
Rights and duties are fundamental concepts in the context of legal and ethical frameworks. They
represent the reciprocal relationship between individuals or entities within a society or
organization.
Rights:
Definition: Rights refer to entitlements or privileges that individuals or groups possess, often
granted by law or moral principles. They denote what a person is owed or permitted to do.
Examples of Seafarers' Rights:
Right to a Safe and Healthy Workplace: Seafarers have the right to work in an environment that
is free from unnecessary risks to their safety and health.
Right to Fair Wages: Seafarers have the right to receive fair and just compensation for their
work, in accordance with employment contracts and applicable laws.
Right to Rest and Leave: Seafarers are entitled to reasonable working hours, rest periods, and
leave, as specified by international conventions like the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).
Right to Medical Care: Seafarers have the right to access medical care and facilities on board
and ashore, as outlined in international maritime regulations.
Duties:
Definition: Duties represent obligations or responsibilities that individuals or entities are
required to fulfill. They denote what a person is obligated or expected to do.
Examples of Seafarers' Duties:
Duty to Follow Safety Procedures: Seafarers have a duty to adhere to established safety
protocols and procedures to ensure their safety and the safety of others on board.
Duty to Perform Assigned Tasks: Seafarers are obligated to perform their assigned duties and
tasks competently and diligently, contributing to the overall safety and efficiency of the vessel.
Duty to Comply with Regulations: Seafarers must comply with national and international
maritime regulations, including those related to environmental protection, navigation, and crew
welfare.
Duty to Report Safety Concerns: Seafarers have a responsibility to report any safety concerns,
hazards, or violations to the appropriate authorities on board.
9)What is fatigue? What are the main causes of fatigue?
Fatigue refers to a state of physical or mental exhaustion resulting from prolonged periods of
physical or mental activity, inadequate rest or sleep, or a combination of these factors. It can
impair a person's ability to perform tasks safely and efficiently, affecting cognitive functions,
reaction times, and decision-making.
The main causes of fatigue can be multifaceted and may include:
1)Inadequate Sleep:
Lack of sufficient and quality sleep is a primary cause of fatigue. Seafarers may experience sleep
disruptions due to long working hours, irregular schedules, or challenging environmental
conditions on board.
2)Extended Working Hours:
Prolonged and irregular working hours, especially without adequate breaks, contribute to
fatigue.
3)Stress and Mental Strain:
High levels of stress, mental strain, or emotional exhaustion can lead to fatigue.
4)Environmental Factors:
Unfavorable environmental conditions, such as noise, vibration, extreme temperatures, and
motion at sea, can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to fatigue.
10)What symptoms of fatigue do you know? How can seafarers fight fatigue?
Physical Symptoms:
Tiredness and Sleepiness: Persistent feelings of exhaustion and a strong desire for sleep.
Muscle Weakness: A general lack of physical strength and reduced ability to perform tasks that
require physical effort.
Headaches: Dull or throbbing pain in the head, often associated with tension or stress.
Digestive Issues: Problems such as indigestion, nausea, or changes in appetite.
Cognitive Symptoms:
Impaired Concentration: Difficulty focusing on tasks, reduced attention span, and an increased
likelihood of making errors.
Memory Problems: Forgetfulness and difficulty retaining information.
Slowed Reaction Time: Delays in responding to stimuli, which can be critical in safety-sensitive
tasks.
Emotional Symptoms:
Mood Changes: Increased irritability, mood swings, and a generally negative emotional state.
Increased Stress: Elevated stress levels and a decreased ability to cope with stressors.
Depression and Anxiety: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or excessive worry.
Seafarers can take proactive steps to fight fatigue and promote well-being. Here are some
strategies:
Adequate Sleep:
Ensure that you get sufficient and good-quality sleep during scheduled rest periods.
Regular Breaks:
Take regular breaks during work hours to rest and recharge. Short breaks can help improve
alertness and concentration.
Healthy Lifestyle:
Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated. Avoid excessive caffeine intake, especially close to
bedtime.
Education and Training:
Receive education and training on fatigue management to increase awareness and adopt
effective strategies.
Seek Support:
If experiencing persistent fatigue or related symptoms, seek support from colleagues,
supervisors, or onboard medical personnel.
