Winners and losers an oft mentioned perception
This article considers how the human element relates to my role running the Assessment and Inspection department in BP Shipping. The department is responsible for approximately 3,500 bespoke pieces of assessment a year, largely SIRE ship inspections.
This article considers how the human element relates to my role running the Assessment and Inspection department in BP Shipping. The department is responsible for approximately 3,500 bespoke pieces of assessment a year, largely SIRE ship inspections but also encompassing technical manager, marine terminal and structural assessments.
The oft mentioned perception, particularly when it comes to ship inspections, is that there need to be winners and losers, that inspectors attend to find fault and that they are programmed to find as many issues as possible. My own perception of this is entirely different - inspectors attend vessels on behalf of a principal, and - certainly in the case of BP - they are onboard to undertake a quantified risk assessment of the vessel and her operation to determine if the level of risk to the business is acceptable for the potential carriage of one of our cargoes. Differing perceptions are a classic symptom of the human element. I believe that in this instance our required outcomes are similar and with some slight changes in behaviour we could be better aligned and able to deliver what we are all looking for - safer vessels.
The benefit a ship inspector brings to the equation is an independent, experienced set of eyes to help manage our risk, and yours. You possibly see one thing due to familiarity, we possibly see things differently, bringing a fresh, experienced approach.
To quote from UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) publication The Human Element - a guide to human behaviour in the shipping industry: ‘Humans are not simply an element like the weather. They are at the very centre of the shipping enterprise. They are the secret of its successes and the victims of its failures.’ And: ‘Our ability to share situations, goals and meaning depends on two other key human properties: empathy and communication.’
During an inspection, many of the conversations have the potential to become ‘difficult’. Ensuring all parties understand the outcome of these conversations is not about winning and losing, but about creating an opportunity for improvement. Instilling behaviours that are respectful of others’ positions, and empowering all parties to have a voice and be willing to use it, are important. In- spectors should be respectful of the officers and crew and the fact they are temporarily in their living and working environment. On the other hand, ship’s staff also need to be respectful of the inspector – he/she is a well-qualified and experienced individual representing a customer.
In the event that respect and basic communications are evident and in place, I believe the inspection process has the ability to deliver mutual benefit.
The Human Element publication has relevance for every aspect of what we do in our industry. I should have read it when changing roles recently; it helps inform your perception of everything you do.
The Human Element – a guide to human behaviour in the shipping industry is downloadable from: www.dft.gov.uk/mca/the_human_element_a_ guide_to_human_behaviour_in_the_shipping_ industry