Launch of #SaferSAR Initiative to Enhance Global Search and Rescue Operations

The International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) has launched the #SaferSAR initiative, funded by Lloyd’s Register Foundation, to improve global search and rescue (SAR) operations. The initiative will focus on creating a platform for SAR personnel and organizations to share lessons and best practices from SAR response incidents, accidents, and exercises to enhance safety at sea. Despite the existence of marine accident investigation branches and SAR organizations, there is currently no global system that collates and analyzes SAR data for trends, patterns, or safety concerns and disseminates these findings.

IMRF CEO Caroline Jupe emphasized the importance of sharing data and experiences to develop greater understanding and safer operations in global SAR organizations. The initiative aims to assist organizations that lack resources to collect information by providing data on identified safety risks. Olivia Swift, Senior Programme Manager at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, stressed the significance of access to information on evolving risks and how to mitigate them for the maritime sector. The IMRF will work closely with industry stakeholders and SAR organizations, including its membership of over 120 SAR organizations from 50 countries, to conduct a 12-month feasibility study for the initiative.

In an exclusive interview, Caroline Jupe highlighted the need for concerted efforts from industry stakeholders to address key barriers identified in the IMRF’s #WomeninSAR initiative. The initiative aims to enhance the safety of the maritime sector by reducing risks and improving SAR operations.

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