Editorial (14)
The ability to properly convey information by word of mouth and/or by written communication is important not only to the safety of ships’ crews, visitors and passengers, but also to the wellbeing of crews.
It would seem that the standard of English of some seafarers is so bad that they have difficulty communicating not only between themselves but also with agencies outside the ship.
The aim of the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP) is to get round the problem of language barriers at sea and avoid those misunderstandings which can cause accidents. But, is it used at sea?
The key to improved verbal com- munication is in the recruitment of seafarers who have an understanding of the English language; in education in the art of effective communication and in the correct use of the English language in the maritime environ- ment; and in a programme of regular testing in their knowledge of the English language.
Today there seems to be more paperwork than ever, in the form of e-mails, questionnaires, procedures and checklists. How many of us have stopped to consider whether the e- mail that we have just sent to about 50 addressees was actually relevant to all of them?
Perhaps the questionnaires and checklists are necessary, but do we need so many? Checklists are not foolproof; if properly used, they can be of considerable assistance as an aide-memoir for ensuring that nothing has been forgotten when carrying out, for example, a safety critical procedure. But, they can lead to a ‘tick in the box’ culture that, in turn, can breed complacency.
Modern communications are sup- posed to make life easier for all. Some ship’s bridges serve as the communications hub, where can be found not only the communications fit in accordance with SOLAS, but also fax machines, desktop computers, and mobile telephones. All these systems of course make communication easier, but they can also have an effect on the safe operation of the ship. How many ship operators have thought to ensure that restrictions are placed on the use of mobile telephones and desktop computers on the bridge?
But, Communication is not just about talking, reading, writing, procedures etc. It is about exchanging ideas, information and knowledge between individuals, and between crew and management ashore. It is about the provision of telephone communic- ations and email and internet facilities to enable crew to keep in touch with their families.
It is about the dissemination of information through professional journals, company newsletters and noticeboard bulletins to inform the crew of important issues that have an effect on their professional life, health, safety and welfare. It is about recognising, interpreting and correctly reacting to people, incidences or situations that are open to misunderstanding due to cultural differences. It is about empowerment, inclusion, leadership and teamwork.
Effective communication therefore, is the key to the successful operation of any ship.