Safety at sea: more than just a life jacket

A ship in a harbour is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.

Would you like to know more about safety in the shipping industry? Read our interview with Jane Van Huylenbrouck, lawyer at the Directorate of Maritime Traffic Control (FPS Mobility and Transport) and former employee of the National Social Security Office (NSSO) and Joeri De Thaye, advisor at the Directorate of Maritime Traffic Control and former ship inspector.

Since time immemorial, working in the maritime industry has been synonymous with an adventure that calls for courage and endurance. Seafarers easily spend several months at sea. It is therefore important to ensure their health and safety on board. Thanks to advanced technologies and international regulations, life on Belgian ships is becoming increasingly safe. We asked Jane and Joeri what measures exist, in addition to the social security system for seafarers(New window).

Safety risks

Seafarers are more easily exposed to accidents at the workplace. Therefore, a good social protection is necessary. Joeri, a former marine inspector, knows the challenges faced by seafarers. 'It’s a 24/7 job with a high workload, often extreme weather conditions, and sometimes even piracy. Seafarers have to carry out physically demanding work such as welding, working at height and handling hazardous materials.' Jane stresses that fortunately there is a strong safety culture on board ships, supported by both shipping companies and regulations. 'All crew members have received at least basic medical training and some, including the captain, have received advanced medical training.'

International law

Regulations also play a role in ensuring health and safety at sea. Jane contributed to the implementation of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) into Belgian law. This convention aims to improve working and employment conditions for seafarers. 'Because of my knowledge of social law in my previous job as a lawyer at the NSSO, I acted as a bridge between DG Shipping (my employer) on the one hand and FPS Employment, Labour and Social Dialogue and the NSSO on the other. This allowed us to work together constructively and implement the MLC in our legislation. This is something I'm proud of', explains Jane. 'It’s important to get all stakeholders on the same page and ensure that regulations are not only understood, but are also complied with. A healthy work environment is a win-win situation for everyone.'

Maritime inspectors

Regulations and cooperation are indispensable, but when combined with control mechanisms, they really reinforce each other. This is where maritime inspectors have an important role to play. They maintain health and safety on board ships. As an expert by experience, Joeri emphasises that the role of a marine inspector is multi-faceted. In addition to technical checks, they also talk to crew members. 'Thanks to these personal experiences, we obtain a full picture of daily living and working conditions and possible areas for improvement.' Inspectors also ensure that the crew are paid correctly and that their social security is guaranteed. They also check that ships comply with national and international legislation on construction, equipment and environmental requirements. They carry out inspections on Belgian ships worldwide and check foreign ships entering Belgian ports. This is how they ensure compliance with the various conventions and codes.

Always improving

'The evolution of rescue equipment and the deployment of computer technology are helping us to develop more stringent safety procedures and take preventive actions.' Jane points to ongoing improvements in regulations and the adoption of new technologies. 'Tragic as it may sound, incidents often lead to stricter requirements and regulatory changes. In addition, shipping companies are obliged to constantly evaluate and improve their procedures to ensure the safety of their crews.'

Mental health

The welfare and the motivation of seafarers is also a major concern, especially during long voyages. Even if it is not mandatory, modern ships often offer recreational facilities such as TV, karaoke and internet. However, not all ships have these facilities. Some vessels still do not have an internet connection for the crew.

Rest and training

What seafarers can do for themselves? 'Get a good rest. In addition, frequent training and emergency drills arm them against the constantly changing conditions at sea.'

As such, the Belgian maritime sector is making significant progress as far as security is concerned. And just as ships are built to sail, Social Security for Seafarers(New window) is there to provide seafarers with the necessary protection.