Safety Operation on Board an Economical Human Factors Perspectives

Abstract

This research was aimed to present some research-based information about conditions and obstacles which commonly become issues on board. This research provided various human factors related to safety operation on board which more or less influence seafarer’s duty and responsibility. The research data were collected through questionnaire. Some literature studies of factors on board were also presented including ship familiarization, life-saving appliances, sanitary and hygiene, accommodation, food, wages, work hours/rest hours, communication, interpersonal relationship, teamwork, language and culture diversity. The research showed that Indonesian seafarers who work on either national or international vessel definitely require human factor fulfillment to guarantee their safety. Human factors play important roles which determine seafarer’s safety. Several studies proposed numbers of maritime accidents which were caused by human factors were greater that numbers caused by weather and technical factors. Safety operation and working motivation will be increased as some regulations were established. They included STCW (Standard Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers), SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), ISM (International Safety Management) Code, and MLC (Maritime Labour Convention). They are all covered in IMO (International Maritime Organization). Ship companies need to ensure that their crews follow the safety procedures and regulations.