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Effective ways to prevent maritime collisions

On Behalf of | Dec 15, 2020 | Injuries

Maritime workers in Texas face a laundry list of risks at work each day including vessel collisions. Because the elements are not always predictable, workers must follow industry-regulated protocols to stay safe. 

Maritime companies who execute frequent safety training addressing common causes of collisions can keep their workers safer. 

Preparation and maintenance

Before clearing a vessel for operation, workers must verify the completion of all procedural maintenance. According to The Maritime Executive, the National Transportation Safety Board investigates a notable number of accidents resulting from ignorance of standardized procedures. This may include skipping standardized tests and using incorrect maintenance methods. 

Company leaders should verify the integrity of their maintenance procedures, as well as the compliance of their workers. They can motivate their workers to abide by company protocols with the implementation of training, as well as conducting periodic audits to assess compliance. 

Communication and responsibility

Maritime workers need to practice consistent communication to keep each other informed of critical details. Even one missing piece of information could immediately endanger everyone and put a vessel at risk of crashing. Companies should establish clear guidelines for communication and implement consequences for workers who do not comply. 

Workers should practice responsibility to protect themselves and their cohorts. According to Marine and Offshore Insight, a vessel’s crew should remember the value of life and be mindful of each other when making decisions that will undoubtedly affect everyone’s safety. This includes their actions outside of work which may impact their attentiveness including getting enough rest, coming to work sober and refraining from consuming medications that could cause drowsiness.