The eleven specialists, who work nomadically across the managed fleet of oil tankers, gas carriers, offshore vessels, Ro-Pax and Ro-Ro vessels, met for a series of training classes, discussion forums, teambuilding exercises and objective setting meetings.

Working onboard with crews, the vastly experienced group of former Masters and Chief Engineers ensure implementation of Behaviour Based Safety process, conduct HSE training, hold audits and inspections and assist with investigations as well as other HSEQ related key duties.

During the week, productive discussions were held with onshore colleagues and management.

Anwar Modak, Fleet Safety Specialist (FSS), attended the event.

He said: “The primary role of an FSS is to ensure that all shipboard operations are carried out in the safest manner while adhering to company policies.”

“This helps ensure the health and safety of the seafarers, the safety of the ships and the preservation of the environment.”

“The seminar held in August was one of the best I have attended. There were several value-added training courses in Maritime Partners in Safety Program, Asbestos Awareness, Lifting Equipment Examination and Fire Fighting Technique.”

“These courses provide us with more knowledge which can be used while carrying out onboard training and inspections.”

GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE EXPERIENCES

As well the opportunity for face-to-face operational discussions with fellow FSS’s and onshore management, the seminar also provided the opportunity for rare team building exercises including Helicopter Underwater Escape Training at Clyde Training Solutions, and a team hike in the nearby Kilpatrick Hills.

Bogdan Asalomia, FSS, added: “To have all the Fleet Safety Specialists together was a great opportunity to share our experiences.

“The seminar creates a positive and memorable learning experience that encourages teamwork and individual contribution, ultimately stimulating improvement.”

Ko Ko Naing, Head of Health, Safety, Environmental & Quality, added: “The objective of the seminar was to motivate Fleet Safety Specialists and members of HSEQ Team to promote Northern Marine Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental and Quality Policy within the Company and Fleet as a priority issue, as well as effective utilisation of Fleet Safety Specialists (FSS) and inclusion in Companywide visible leadership and management visit plans.

“It is also provided the FSS team with the additional skills that they need to carry out their tasks and increase their success during ship visits for training, audit and inspection.”

Fleet Safety Specialists have been deployed by Northern Marine since 2002.