The challenges faced by seafarers and ship operators when undertaking large-scale rescues at sea will be examined and discussed during a practical workshop scheduled to be held during the European Shipping Week, March 2 to 6.
Delegates attending ESW, including ship owners, ship managers and Flag State representatives, will benefit from the workshop which is being organised jointly by InterManager, the international trade association for ship managers, and the European Community Shipowners' Association.
Recent months have seen several merchant ships come to the aid of small vessels in distress at sea and loaded, often overloaded, with large numbers of migrants.
Women, children and men have been taken onboard cargo vessels to save them from drowning at sea. Large numbers have been rescued – some vessels have transported more than 500 people to safety, often in the Mediterranean to Italy.
Such actions are both praiseworthy and expected from seafarers, who are following regulations such as the Safety Of Life At Sea (SOLAS). However, merchant vessels are not equipped to carry large numbers of passengers, some of whom may be injured, sick, very young, elderly or pregnant.
Best practice procedures, suitable equipment and training are needed to equip seafarers to handle such incidents and to ensure the safety of themselves, their vessel and the rescued people.
This workshop is intended to help shipping companies understand and evaluate the issues involved and understand recommended practices to ensure the safety of crew and refugees.
For further information and to register your attendance please contact Capt. Kuba Szymanski at kuba.szymanski@intermanager.org
source: ESCA