ALERT — ISSUE 31 — HUMAN RESOURCES

This is the human resources-related issue of our bulletin. Throughout the last three issues of Alert, the authors have been focusing on the matters influencing the interaction between people as well as between people and machines or systems aboard vessel. We have performed through examination of all potential causes and effects of the fatigue and offered some effective solutions for mitigating it.

The importance of establishing effective communication has been stresses; we have also explained the best ways to avoid complacency. We have touched the design of the vessels and seafarers' rights for decent living and working conditions on board their vessels, emphasized the critical importance of professional training, technical skills, practical experience and competence, and cautioned our readers against ineffective management systems.

In short, we did our best to provide coverage of all important aspects of human life and work on board. And now we will be trying to discuss human resources. It is important to have right number and correct mix of people having required competencies as well as familiarity with the vessel to achieve the desired effectiveness of the vessel and avoid any accidents...