A recent survey by the Lloyd’s Register Foundation and Gallup has identified ocean workers as the most hazardous profession, with 25% reporting job-related injuries in the past two years. The survey revealed inadequate safety training and cultural norms that discourage injury reporting, highlighting the unique risks faced by those working at sea.
After over seven years of anticipation, dredging surveys for the Brahmaputra River have commenced at Bogibeel. A team from the Inland Waterways Authority of India is focusing on a critical 300-meter stretch to enhance navigation, significantly improving ferry, cruise, and cargo services in the region. Actual dredging is expected soon.
Jotun’s recent report, based on a survey of 1,000 ship owners, reveals alarming trends in biofouling management. With 41% facing penalties and 38% denied port access due to inadequate strategies, the need for effective antifouling solutions is pressing. Awareness of biofouling’s impact on the shipping industry is growing rapidly.
The second Women in Maritime survey by the IMO and WISTA reveals a significant rise in female employment, from 151,979 in 2021 to 176,820 in 2024. Despite this, women comprise just under 19% of the workforce, with alarming disparities in roles, particularly among seafarers, where only 1% are women.
InterManager, in collaboration with industry partners, is conducting a survey to gather feedback from seafarers on enclosed space risks. The goal is to identify specific areas of concern and improve safety procedures. Despite efforts to reduce fatalities, incidents in enclosed spaces remain a major issue. Seafarers are urged to participate in the survey.
The salvage team from T&T Marine Salvage and the Canadian Coast Guard are working together to assess and develop a plan for the stranded MSC Baltic III in Newfoundland, Canada. Despite challenges from weather conditions, efforts are underway to prevent potential oil leaks and pollution, ensuring the safety of all involved.
The maritime industry is making strides in gender diversity, but there is still work to be done. WISTA International President Elpi Petraki stresses the importance of breaking down barriers for true equity. The Women in Maritime survey, launched by the IMO and WISTA International, aims to measure progress and inspire action towards gender equality.
EIVA and Tuco Marine have partnered to develop integrated autonomous systems for inspecting subsea assets, focusing on renewable energy cables. Utilizing Tuco’s ProZero 8m USV and EIVA’s ViperFish ROTV, they aim to enhance subsea monitoring, delivering high-resolution data for improved asset management and safety in challenging underwater environments.
The recent survey on disparities within the seafarer community revealed alarming rates of psychological and sexual harassment among women and LGBTQ+ members. The lack of DEI training for senior ranks was also identified as a concern. Despite challenges, there were positive aspects, highlighting the need for a more inclusive maritime industry.
Marine mammal populations are rebounding, but conflicts with fisheries and property owners are on the rise. The NOAA is conducting a survey on deterrent methods to protect fishing gear and infrastructure from these interactions. Understanding these conflicts is crucial for developing effective strategies to coexist with marine mammals while preserving economic interests.
