Ship safety highlighted on Intl Seafarer's Day

SAFETY onboard ships is the theme for the International Day of the Seafarer celebrated today, June 25.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) kicks off the celebration with a campaign that highlights seafarers' contribution to making the maritime sector a safer workplace.

«I have seen you work on deck and below in engine rooms, on bridges, in canteens, and in cargo holds, making the world's largest methods of transportation go. You do this with the highest levels of safety while always ready to tackle emergencies. No one knows your work better than you. Your experience is vital for the future of shipping and a safe sector,» Arsenio Antonio Dominguez, IMO secretary-general, said in his message to the world's seafarers.

Seafarers have been at the forefront of keeping the maritime industry safe. PHOTO BY DUNCAN TORRES

Dominguez acknowledged the resilience and bravery of seafarers who are «facing hostile acts from piracy or in conflict zones.»

He attributed the stability of the world's supply chain to the merchant mariners and their professionalism.

He urged seafarers all over the world to join IMO's campaign to promote safety at sea through photos and recommendations as part of this year's International Day of the Seafarers.

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«Join the safety conversation. We want to hear from you. Let us know how you keep up with the pace of technological change and innovation to stay safe onboard and how you cope with mental challenges,» Dominguez said.

«Be creative, you can share the equipment you use to keep your workplace safe or any special training you received, and tell us how you work to enhance maritime safety and security, in tandem with the protection of the marine environment. I invite you to share your photos or tips for safety at sea #SafetyTipsAtSea,» he added.

The Day of the Seafarer, celebrated every June 25, was established in a resolution adopted by the 2010 Diplomatic Conference in Manila to adopt the revised Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Convention.

The resolution «encourages governments, shipping organizations, companies, shipowners, and all other parties concerned to duly and appropriately promote the Day of the