Working and living together
Effective communication keeps the ship safe: instructions are given clearly and confirmed, the working language is used, and misunderstandings — which can cause accidents — are avoided. Aboard a modern ship the crew are often from many nationalities and cultures, and living and working together in a small space for months demands tolerance, respect and good working relationships. The seafarer contributes to a positive shipboard community by communicating clearly, respecting others, resolving disagreements maturely, and supporting good morale, because a crew that works and lives well together is a safer and happier ship.
- Communicate clearly and confirm important instructions to avoid misunderstanding.
- Use the ship's working language so everyone understands.
- Respect the different nationalities, cultures and backgrounds of the crew.
- Build good working relationships, resolve disagreements maturely, and support morale.
NOTE — Clear communication is a safety matter Misunderstood instructions cause accidents. Giving instructions clearly, in the working language, and confirming that they are understood is not just courtesy — it is part of working safely.
TIP — A crew that lives well together is safer On a ship people work and live in the same small space for months. Tolerance, respect and good relationships are not soft extras; a harmonious crew communicates better and is a safer, happier ship.