Workforce Solutions Coastal Bend is hosting their second Annual Maritime Expo & Career Fair on October 2nd in Corpus Christi, Texas. The event aims to connect career seekers with opportunities in the maritime industry on the Gulf Coast. Students and the general public are welcome to explore potential career paths and job opportunities.
The mental well-being of seafarers, especially Filipino cadets, is a growing concern in the maritime industry. Halcyon Marine Healthcare Systems Inc. reports a rise in mental health issues like depression and anxiety among Filipino seafarers. These challenges, along with family and work-related stress, can significantly impact seafarers’ overall well-being and the industry.
A man on board the survey and supply vessel Kommandor Orca had a terrifying ordeal when his overalls got caught in the deck crane, causing his leg to be pinned under the machinery. Despite being airlifted to a hospital for amputation, the incident prompted the crew to implement safety measures to prevent future accidents.
Women leaders in Southeast Asia’s maritime sector recently completed an intensive IMO training course on green shipping technologies and digitalization. The program, part of the SMART-C Women Project funded by South Korea, aimed to enhance skills and job opportunities for female professionals in developing countries. Participants gained valuable insights and experiences to drive innovation and sustainability in the industry.
The Canadian Coast Guard has ceased its search for a crew member who disappeared from the CCGS Vincent Massey, a new icebreaker. The crew member went missing upon the vessel’s return to base in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. Extensive search efforts involving aircraft, vessels, and other ships in the area were unsuccessful. The incident is now under investigation by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
The ITF and JNG have implemented the Non-Seafarers’ Work Clause to improve seafarer safety by assigning tasks like lashing and unlashing cargo to trained dockworkers. This reduces physical strain, fatigue, and the risk of accidents. By following this clause, companies can create a safer maritime industry and promote a better working environment for seafarers.
Kenya has 11,000 seafarers, as recent statistics indicate, prompting government efforts to streamline the sector. President’s directives include expediting Seafarers Identification Document production. Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has appointed a Seafarers Wages Council. Recent evacuations of abandoned seafarers highlight ongoing welfare concerns, with calls for engagement with registered agencies.
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has released a report urging the rationalization of alarms on ships to enhance crew welfare and reduce safety risks from alarm fatigue. LR and partners have formed an industry task force to evaluate alarm system approaches. The Danish Maritime Fund is funding this initiative to manage the increasing number of alarms due to digitalization in maritime operations.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has issued draft criteria for new courses focusing on training for seafarers on electric-propelled vessels. The guidelines outline minimum learning requirements for safety and technical skills, aiming to help seafarers keep up with technological advancements in electric propulsion. Feedback on the criteria is being collected through a consultation process until 20 October.
The Goundar Shipping fleet is expanding with the addition of MV Lady Daya, promising improved services to Fiji’s outer islands and new career opportunities for local seafarers. Prime Minister Rabuka emphasized the significance of these developments for Fiji’s maritime industry, aiming to enhance career prospects and support economic growth through efficient transportation.
The grounding of the Manahau barge in Westport sparked concerns over potential disaster, with crew members unable to speak with Union representatives. Maritime Union of New Zealand Secretary Carl Findlay highlighted the risks, calling for intervention to uphold crew rights. The vessel’s seaworthiness and operator’s actions were criticized, emphasizing the need for New Zealand-owned ships.
The St Vincent and the Grenadines Sailing Association, along with the French Embassy and Blue Life Yacht Charters, are offering local youth training and work experience in the yacht charter industry. This program aims to prepare them for careers in this growing sector, with training taking place in Bequia over 8 weekends between October 2024 and May 2025.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch report revealed that a crewmember’s death on the Pelican of London was caused by heavy drinking and a poorly-rigged gangway. The relief cook fell into the water after consuming alcohol, highlighting safety gaps in rigging and emergency procedures. The incident prompted changes in policies to prevent future tragedies at sea.
The GLOBAL Maritime Forum has released a report on seafarer wellbeing, stressing the need for better working conditions to attract new workers. The findings highlight areas like abuse prevention and work-life balance improvements. With concerns rising over seafarer welfare and challenges they face, the industry must take action to protect global trade.
A study by the UK’s MAIB reveals that 40% of man-overboard incidents on merchant ships end in fatalities, with over 1,000 people falling overboard yearly. Sam Mayall, founder of Zelim, developed Guardian, an unmanned/manned rescue vessel to address this issue. With rapid deployment and advanced technology, Guardian aims to increase chances of rescue in harsh maritime conditions.
