(NEWS) WEBINAR - Safety Learning Culture for Shipping

April

2022

WEBINAR - Safety Learning Culture for Shipping

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On 7 April, the World Maritime University (WMU) hosted a webinar that introduced the White Paper “Towards a Safety Learning Culture for the Shipping Industry”, which has been developed within the framework of the EU-funded SAFEMODE project and involves a maritime-aviation partnership.

Captain Kunal Nakra, Deputy Director for the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau, Singapore, and Chair of the Casualty Analysis Working Group at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) was the keynote speaker. His remarks focused on how a learning organization gains insight from routine, including management reflecting daily on both positive and negative outcomes. He commended the SAFEMODE project in driving change towards a Safety Learning Culture in Shipping, commenting that in order for a Safety Learning Culture to thrive, the disconnect, whether perceived or actual, between the management and the front end must be addressed.

Guest speaker, Captain Jörgen Zachau Senior Maritime Safety Investigator for the Swedish Accident Investigation Authority and coordinator of the Casualty Analysis Correspondence Group within the Subcommittee of Implementation of International Instruments III at the IMO, provided insight on the ongoing work of the Group in trying to understand what can be done to increase the level of the Safety Management System (SMS) implementation and its adequacy to produce a better safety culture and reduce the risk of accidents. He highlighted a dual approach that addresses the front end as well as the blunt end including senior management, surveying organizations and regulator levels.

The White Paper was presented by Dr. Barry Kirwan, European Safety Culture Programme Manager from European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation. It included results of the exploration of Safety Culture through interviews with national investigators and seafarers, as well as discussions with maritime stakeholders including shipping companies, NGOs and regulators. The importance of a Safety Learning Culture was emphasized including ten good practices to enhance Safety Learning. Several maritime cases showed Safety Learning in practice within the shipping industry today.

Following the presentation, WMU Professor, Dr Raphael Baumler, highlighted the importance of the way forward. He stressed that the research conducted is the beginning of a long journey ahead that still needs significant research and work within the maritime community to absorb the ideas and move forward. The panelists, representing industry, seafarers, maritime authorities and administrators, discussed the issue of Safety Culture and Learning Culture in shipping, including its possibilities and limitations. The panelists included:

Captain Ashok Srinivasan Maritime Safety and Security Manager, BIMCO
Professor Jens-Uwe Schröder-Hinrichs Vice-president (Academic), World Maritime University
Commodore Jim Scorer Secretary General, International Federation of Shipmasters’ Associations
Dr. Michelle Grech Manager Vessels Operations, Australian Maritime Safety Administration
Mr. Oessur J. Hilduberg Head of Danish Maritime Accident Investigation Board
Ms. Victoria Norris Vice-Chair of Human Factors Committee, Oil Companies International Marine Forum

The webinar was moderated by Professor Baumler and WMU Research Associate Dr Maria Carrera. Over 300 participants from 65 countries registered for the event that was open to the general public.

To access the recorded webinar, click here.‍

WMU Webinars

WMU regularly offers webinars that are open to the general public, including from the The Knowledge for Life WMU Alumni Webinar series that was launched in 2019 with the aim of keeping WMU graduates connected with the cutting edge research and work of WMU faculty. Previous WMU webinar topics with links to the recordings are provided below.

Sustainable Shipyards

Marine Litter in the Eastern Caribbean

The World of the Seafarer

BUGWRIGHT2: Overcoming Regulatory Barriers for Service Robotics in an Ocean Industry Context

The “Ever Given” - A Legal Status Update

Ocean and Climate Challenges: Seeking Sustainable Solutions

Digital Innovation for Smart Shipping

‍Understanding the Effects of COVID-19 on Seafarers‍

The People We Need for the Ocean We Want

A Culture of Adjustment Research Report - evaluating the implementation of the current maritime regulatory framework on rest and work hours‍

Covid-19 and Labour: Revisiting the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006‍

Upgrade Your Professional Skills For The Future‍

Search and Rescue in the High North Region‍

COVID-19 and shipping: maritime law and policy highlights‍

The Journey Towards a Zero/Low Carbon and Energy Efficient Maritime Future‍

Transport 2040: The Future of Work

Decarbonization of International Shipping

Women in Leadership: Paths Through Education

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Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.

My research explored thetheoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis onmaritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the studyconducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritimegovernance—specifically, the implementation of International MaritimeOrganization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affectthe implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, theresearch aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmlyanchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling theintricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMOinstruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivatedby a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies inmaritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of ascarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in theexisting body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration,underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area ofmaritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarlyresearch.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of myeducational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections withinfluential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of theglobe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an internationalscale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also servedas a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding ofdifferent perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantlyto my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networkingand has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within theCaribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path,my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritimegovernance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the globalmaritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by apassionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritimedomain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly topositive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

The Transition to low and near zero carbon emission ports: Extent and Determinants

The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards

When I made the decision to embark on the journey of pursuing both my MScand PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for severalcompelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as aworld-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wieldedsignificant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a seniorprofessional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of acaptain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexusfor both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the disseminationof my wealth of industry experience.

WMU's unwavering commitment tomaritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realmsof academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMUwas the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched inmaritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University'sstoried tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within themaritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for myeducational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approachto maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

My research focus during my tenureat WMU was centered on the pivotal subject of achieving net-zero emissions inthe maritime sector, encompassing both offshore and onshore infrastructures,including ports and shipyards. This particular research avenue held greatappeal for me due to its unique capacity to amalgamate my extensive practicalexperience as a captain within the maritime operational field with the rigorousacademic environment provided by WMU. The maritime industry is inherentlydynamic, constantly undergoing transformative changes, and I was deeplyconvinced that my research endeavors could significantly contribute toenhancing sustainability within this vital sector. The prospect of influencingpositive change by addressing contemporary challenges and emerging trends inthe maritime industry, all closely aligned with my professional background,served as a compelling motivation for my choice of research focus.

One of the most memorable aspectsof my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant andinclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members andfellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been anincredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmospherehas offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectivesthat would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focusedsetting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritimedisciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching myeducational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtfuldiscussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritimetopics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time atWMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network ofmaritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections withprofessionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have notonly broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension tomy educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.

Upon graduation, I was awarded aprestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit ofnet-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University ofSouthampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the nextphase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed tocontinuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building uponthe invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. Myprimary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of thezero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within ourglobal community.

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The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards