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By the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU) for SeaVoices in Celebration of World Maritime Day 2024
In an industry where the well-being of seafarers is paramount, this year’s World Maritime Day theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First!” underscores the importance of both physical and mental safety in maritime operations.
On this occasion, the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU) delves into these critical topics through an episode of Seas The Day, SMOU’s signature podcast. The panel of experts, including Siti Ainul Nellisa (4th Engineer & Vice President, SMOU), Siti Noraini Zaini (Regional Manager, IBIA), Alvin Cheong (Executive Secretary, SMOU), and Capt. Hari Subramaniam (Regional Head, Shipowners’ Club), offers their insights on how safety in the maritime sector is evolving and the integral role of emerging technologies.
Technology is rapidly transforming the landscape of physical safety. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools are emerging as key players, allowing seafarers to experience real-life simulations in controlled environments. Capt. Hari emphasised the importance of this hands-on training, citing practical exercises such as firefighting simulations. These exercises help build muscle memory, ensuring that seafarers are ready to respond effectively in real emergencies.
However, with the adoption of these technologies comes the challenge of balancing cost and safety. As Alvin pointed out, companies must avoid burdening seafarers with obsolete training while consolidating new safety measures. This requires a fine balance, ensuring that training is comprehensive, efficient, and directly relevant to current maritime challenges.
The podcast also brought mental health to the forefront, highlighting it as a crucial aspect of safety. Maritime professionals often work under immense pressure, with long periods away from home. Nellisa and Capt. Hari discussed the stigma that still surrounds mental health in the industry. Both emphasised the importance of creating a culture of openness and providing mental health support systems onboard.
Siti shared the need for a holistic approach to mental health that includes both informal chats with management and formal systems like confidential counselling. Capt. Hari also stressed that the public perception of mental health in the industry needs to evolve, with top management playing a key role in fostering a supportive environment.
Looking ahead, safety in the maritime sector will continue to evolve alongside advancements in technology. The panel agreed that seafarers’ roles are shifting, with increasing emphasis on digital skills. As Alvin and Capt. Hari pointed out, the future will likely see seafarers taking on more data-driven roles, requiring continuous training and upskilling in areas like AI and predictive maintenance.
For older seafarers, this transition may present challenges. However, the panel highlighted the importance of offering targeted training that helps them adapt to these new technologies, ensuring that they feel supported and confident in navigating the evolving maritime landscape.
As we celebrate World Maritime Day 2024, the discussions from the Seas The Day podcast underline a crucial truth: the future of maritime safety is not just about adopting new technologies but also about ensuring that the human element—both physical and mental well-being—remains a central focus. As SMOU continues to champion seafarers’ rights and safety, we remain committed to fostering an industry that prioritises the holistic well-being of its workforce, navigating the future with safety first.
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