THOUGHTS ON SAFETY OPERATION
By: Captain Ronald Allan H. Cabral
Fostering safety awareness is of utmost importance in vessel operation as it protects our irreplaceable lives, the vessel, its cargo and the natural environment. Having a full understanding of the safety standards and enhancing safety measures by being firm and being consistent in enforcing these is of great importance in maintaining the four zeroes in safe operations
Being a Master of the ship does not only mean commanding the vessel operations, it is more than that, being the Master I have ultimate responsibility for safety and security not only of my crew but the whole vessel itself as well as its cargo. I have to ensure that the procedures are properly implemented, and safety practice is adhered to at all times. As Master, I believe that good communication is one tool to work well with each department, the support from the company is also important as this encourages us to work well. Based from what we have learned from previous vessel incidents which resulted in casualties, complacency must not have a place in our daily operation. Safety needs to be ingrained in the minds and in every action regardless of the command level, and situations. Well-trained crew members, adequately qualified and trained should clearly understand the ship’s safety protocols.
In these extraordinary times of the global pandemic, now more than ever the shipping industry is facing its greatest challenge. Its resilience amidst the drastic changes should redound to the sea masters who must be self-reliant, competent leaders able to quickly and properly assess the current situation even with the shroud of the COVID 19 above his head. We, the seafarers can also be regarded as front liners, as we are playing an essential role in ensuring that valuable cargoes are delivered to our loyal clients. As an essential part of the chain, we must continuously provide necessities for people to move forward while making sure that the safety of our crew members, our vessel and the environment is not compromised. As such, we will continue to stay committed to our safety values and mission.
Thank you very much.
