The life of a seafarer is one of unique challenges, rigorous routines, and a relentless commitment to safety. As these maritime professionals wake up early each morning to carry out their tasks that help the rest of the world gain access to necessary resources, they enter a world of responsibilities that extend far beyond the shores.
As Anglo American continues to charter fleets of vessels to connect customers with the resources they need in a way that is safe, efficient and sustainable, the company recognises the importance of safeguarding the lives and wellbeing of its seafaring crew by implementing and maintaining strict safety policies to be carried from the shore to the sea.
Seafarers' days begin by waking up in the early hours of the morning before gathering for a well-rounded and nutritional breakfast to power them through the busy day ahead, alongside the same 20 individuals who become not just colleagues but an extended family during their time at sea.
Navigating life at sea has many difficulties, ranging from the unpredictable sway of ships in harsh weather conditions to the complex duties necessary to maintain the vessel's continuous upkeep and safety. The maritime environment is plagued with inherent risks that necessitate an alert and skilled crew to negotiate the ever-changing conditions and complete the numerous jobs critical to the ship's and its inhabitants' well-being.
While pirates may seem like they only exist in fairytales, the reality is that seafarers must remain ever-vigilant against potential pirate threats. Aside from routinely conducting bridge watchkeeping during the early hours of dawn, all seafarers must also be well-versed in the time-sensitive safety protocols that must be put in place in the event of a pirate attack such as diligently securing every entry point.
Handling the High Stakes of LNG-Powered Vessels
While seafarers consistently maintain stringent safety standards when it comes to handling cargo, the stakes are significantly higher when it comes to dealing with vessels powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). Due to the low temperature, Cryogenic nature, and explosive characteristics of LNG, crew members must exercise heightened vigilance during LNG bunkering operations.
In addition, the ships are fitted with machinery and controls that has higher sophistication, thus requiring more specialised skill sets, than traditional marine fuel vessels. Taken together, these mean a longer training process as well as being familiar with additional emergency response measures.
Upholding Safety Standards
Safety is ingrained within the seafarers, where their preparedness for emergencies is a top priority. Regular safety drills form the cornerstone of this readiness, ensuring that the entire crew is well-versed and ready to handle any potential crisis that may arise during their voyage.
Among the most crucial drills are the fire drills, meticulously designed to simulate and practice the response to onboard fires. These drills cover a range of scenarios, from identifying the source of the fire to executing effective evacuation procedures while utilising firefighting equipment with precision. Additionally, rescue exercises are conducted to ensure that the crew can swiftly and efficiently respond to emergencies like man overboard situations, fostering a sense of teamwork and quick action in critical situations.
The maritime environment is replete with a diverse range of complex machinery integral to the ship's operation. These machines demand specialised knowledge and expertise to operate safely and efficiently. Consequently, only seafarers who have undergone rigorous training and certification for handling such machinery are authorised to operate them, especially during tasks involving welding or cutting tools. This ensures not only the safety of the individuals operating the equipment but also the overall security and integrity of the vessel itself.
The emphasis on expertise and authorisation in handling complex machinery is a critical aspect of maritime safety protocols. It's a testament to the commitment to ensuring that every task onboard is executed with precision and adherence to safety measures, reducing the risk of accidents and maintaining a safe working environment for all crew members. This dedication to training and specialisation significantly minimises the potential for mishaps caused by human error, underscoring the paramount importance of safety in the maritime profession.
The Importance of Mental Wellbeing
Aside from physical wellbeing, mental health is another priority for seafarers. After working hard to ensure operations are running smoothly, the crew onboard use initiatives such as ‘Social Sundays’ to unwind through sports, games and exercise.
“Our company fosters a culture that prioritises the wellbeing of seafarers, ultimately ensuring that they receive necessary rest for safe and effective operations while at sea,” said Shreyus Nayak Bantwal, a 3rd Engineer working onboard the Ubuntu Humanity, one of the ships from Anglo American’s fleet of LNG-fuelled vessels.
While there are thrilling activities that take place onboard daily, there are also mundane yet crucial tasks that need to be done. To maintain a safe and hygienic environment on board, crew members must carry out essential cleaning tasks such as washing and dry cleaning.
“I believe that each crew member is responsible for immediately stopping and reporting any health, safety and environmental violations,” said Anino Gabriel Lera Og, one of the Able Seamen working on the Ubuntu Humanity.
Whether they are a Master, Engineer, Bosun, Electro-Technical Officer, Able Seaman, or Chief Cook, each crew member has their responsibilities and role to play in ensuring the collective safety of all those onboard.
The significance of shore support in maritime operations cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the crew. Shore support serves as the backbone of maritime endeavours, providing a vital connection between the onshore infrastructure and the vessels navigating the open seas. This support system is essential for effective communication, timely provision of resources, and emergency response coordination.
The safety of the crew members relies heavily on the seamless interaction between onshore support personnel and those at sea. Whether it be in routine operations or during critical situations, the steadfast support from shore ensures that the crew is equipped with the necessary resources, guidance, and assistance to navigate challenges and mitigate risks effectively. A robust shore support system not only safeguards the personnel onboard but also enhances the overall efficiency and success of maritime operations, fostering a collaborative and secure environment on the high seas.
In the realm of maritime challenges, seafarers not only navigate the capricious waves of the open sea but also steer through the complexities of their demanding workplaces. Examining the daily experiences of these resilient individuals, it becomes clear that their journey extends beyond the physical boundaries of the ocean. Navigating both waves and work, seafarers embody adaptability, resilience, and unity.