From Stormy Seas to Smooth Sailing: The Influence of Quality Maritime Training

In the vast expanse of the maritime industry, the importance of quality maritime training cannot be overstated. As the industry grapples with a myriad of challenges, from safety concerns to regulatory compliance, the need for comprehensive and effective training solutions becomes paramount. This article delves into the most pressing pain points faced by the maritime sector and underscores the pivotal role of training in addressing them.

Pain Point #1: Constant Safety Accidents

The maritime realm is full of danger. Onboard fires, collisions, and other unforeseen accidents are ever-present threats. In 1976, a research board in the U.K. concluded that human error was the cause of 80% of accidents (Goulielmos, 1997). Ever since, most of the published studies on maritime accidents have found that maritime accidents are caused mainly by human errors (Berg et al., 2013a).

These accidents have serious consequences. According to EMSA's Annual Overview of Marine Casualties and Incidents for 2022, 2014-2021 saw 563 fatalities in the industry; averaging 70 deaths a year. In the same period, reported workplace injuries and casualties totaled nearly 12,000, with many more presumably not reported on.

Solution:

Quality maritime training is the antidote. Below are a few different ways that investing in a training program can provide relief to the industry pain points stated above. 

1. Comprehensive safety courses: Through Knowledge Anywhere's Course Library, we have access to high-quality, off-the-shelf Maritime Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) training, with courses spanning from fall protection, fire fighting, first aid, survival, mooring lines, evacuation procedures, and more to empower crew members to handle emergencies.
2. Virtual reality (VR) safety training: We offer safety courses in a revolutionary hands-on experience in a risk-free environment, designed for safety, construction, and manufacturing purposes.
3. A customized Learning Management System (LMS): Centralized training platforms play a crucial role in monitoring crew progress, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, and scheduling refresher courses. With advanced reporting, tracking, and automation capabilities, your Safety, Compliance, and HR teams can onboard and continuously upskill workers with less effort. To keep the training consistent with your company's brand and values, make sure you're able to customize your LMS!

Pain Point #2: Environmental Concerns

The maritime industry's environmental footprint is undeniable. Pollution, improper waste disposal, and oil spills tarnish not only the environment but also a company's reputation. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) responds to as many as 150 oil spills each year. According to Live Science and information obtained from the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 1.3 million gallons of oil are spilled each year.

These preventable spills wreak havoc on local environments and have a devastating impact on the environment.

Solution:

Environmental stewardship courses are the way forward. By educating crew members on best practices for waste management and spill response, we can significantly mitigate environmental harm. Modern LMS platforms, with interactive courses, exams, and real-life case studies, ensure that the message isn't just delivered but also retained. 

Pain Point #3: High Turnover Crew Rates

The solitude of the sea can take a toll. The demanding nature of maritime jobs, coupled with isolation, can precipitate mental health challenges. It is estimated that the annual turnover rate is between 25% to 35% in some shipping sectors such as cruise shipping (Bhattacharya, 2015) and there's an expected shortfall of 26,240 officers by 2026 (Seafarer Workforce Report from BIMCO and the ICS).

"25% of seafarers show signs of depression."

- Seafarers International Research Centre

These statistics are the canary in the coal mine warning us about the dangers ahead. It's clear to anyone paying attention that the maritime workforce needs help retaining crew. 

Solution:

Mental health training is no longer optional; it's a necessity. Courses on mental health awareness, stress management, and self-care are invaluable assets. With eLearning platforms, these resources are available round the clock, regardless of where or when the crew wants to access them, ensuring that help is always at hand. If retention rates have a high correlation with worker engagement rates, depression is a huge problem for any maritime company trying to hold onto its talent. By investing in the welfare of your workers, you'll see dividends pay off quickly!

You should also make sure your training system has the ability for Learners to leave feedback, providing a platform for crew members to voice their concerns, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This may come in the form of post-course satisfaction surveys or a place for Learners to rate and comment on completed courses. 

Pain Point #4: Highly Specific Technological Advancements

The maritime industry is in the throes of a technological revolution. From cutting-edge navigation systems to automation, the pace of change is relentless. However, this evolution brings with it the challenge of ensuring that all crew members are on board.

Here are a few examples of specific technological innovations that are impacting the maritime industry:

• Robotics and Automation
• Big Data and Analytics
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Advanced Monitoring Systems
• Artificial and Augmented Intelligence
• Data Sharing Technology
• Autonomous Ships
• Green and Sustainable Shipping
• Renewable Marine Energy (wind turbines, solar panels, hydrogen fuel cells, etc.)
• 3D Printing
• Blockchain Technology

Solution:

Continuous training bridges the gap. By offering interactive tutorials, videos, and simulations, modern training platforms demystify complex technologies. The best way to ensure you have quality content about specific product training is to hire an eLearning expert to create custom courses, which can save you time, money, and frustration. If you're interested in why you should outsource this work to an expert, watch our video on Why You Should Consider Hiring an eLearning Consultant: 8 Pros of Using a Pro.

Pain Point #5: Regulatory Compliance

The maritime industry operates within a complex web of regulatory frameworks that span both international and domestic jurisdictions. These regulations, set forth by entities such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United States Coast Guard (USCG), and the Maritime Administration (MARAD), are designed to ensure safety, environmental protection, and fair trade practices. The IMO's MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) and SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea) are prime examples of the intricate regulations that maritime entities must navigate.

Non-compliance doesn't just risk hefty fines and legal repercussions; it can also jeopardize a company's reputation, operational viability, and stakeholder trust.

Solution:

In this intricate regulatory landscape, regulatory training courses emerge as the lighthouse guiding maritime professionals. These courses, tailored to various roles within the maritime sector, ensure that everyone from deck officers to engineers and administrative personnel is well-versed in the latest regulatory changes and best practices. For instance, courses on the Ballast Water Management Convention can equip crew members with the knowledge to prevent the transfer of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens.

Advanced Learning Management Systems (LMS) play a pivotal role in this training ecosystem. With features like automated reminders, these platforms ensure that maritime professionals are alerted to upcoming training deadlines or regulatory updates, while maintaining comprehensive training records and providing an invaluable audit trail, demonstrating a company's commitment to compliance. 

While the regulatory challenges in the maritime sector are undeniably vast, with the right training and tools, they become navigable. By prioritizing regulatory training and leveraging advanced LMS platforms, maritime entities can sail confidently, knowing they are in full compliance with the industry's stringent standards.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the maritime industry's challenges are manifold, but with quality maritime training, they are not insurmountable. By investing in comprehensive training solutions, we not only address immediate pain points but also chart a course for a safer, more sustainable, and efficient maritime future. 

If you'd like to talk with an eLearning expert about your training program, please schedule a free meeting with us here. 

To try Knowledge Anywhere's LMS out for yourself, sign up for a free 14-day trial here.