Whether a superyacht or a cargo container, working on a large vessel will thoroughly put your wits and strength to the test. Ask any seafarer about it; they all will tell you how hectic it can get on a vessel. And of course, we are all humans. As newcomers or even as veterans, we will make mistakes. And in a highly demanding environment, mistakes are bound to happen. So, how do you avoid making these mistakes? The answer is ‘Awareness’. Here are some of the most important professional mistakes you should avoid while working on a ship.
Professional Mistakes to Avoid while Working on a Ship
Non-compliance towards illegal or irrelevant orders
No matter what your position is, you will always be taking orders from someone above you. This is where understanding certain international regulations such as SOLAS, MARPOL, COLREG, ISPS, and STCW would help you make the decision.
Do you comply with the order or not? What should you do? Recall your studies and training, and understand if the order complies with international regulations. In case the order seems irrelevant or illegal, do not comply. Instead, calmly talk out reason with your seniors.
Do not comply with illegal orders as they may land you in court or even in prison. It could deliver a devastating blow to your career.
If you are confused about an order, clarify it with your seniors before proceeding. Clarity and abiding by the regulations is how you stay out of trouble.
Be Honest about your Problems and Mistakes
If you are going to work on a ship, one thing is absolute: you are going to make mistakes. The worst thing you can do with them is hide the mistakes.
We all make mistakes and unless it is not a repeated occurrence, mistakes usually get forgiven. Report your mistakes to your seniors so that you can take the steps to correct them. Making mistakes but letting them
Besides that, it will be a learning experience for you. Working on any commercial ship is a giant learning curve. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes but let others know every time you make one.
Do Not Forge Entries
Documentation is a primary concern on the ship. Documents and records help you organise your work, keep track of inventory, ship’s activities, and much more. They are proof for authorities that the ship is operating as per all international regulations.
Apart from that, these records also help the crew understand future problems and other legal activities, such as insurance claim surveys and so on. Manipulating these records is a criminal offence. You might face criminal charges or jail time, thus resulting in a devastating blow to your career.
But most importantly, you endanger human lives onboard with the forging of these entries. Forged entries and documentation have led to fatal accidents and emergencies in the past.
No Brawling
People from different nationalities, cultural backgrounds, and etiquette work on a ship, hoping to make a living and support their families. When you are working in such a diverse environment, conflicts are bound to happen. However, regardless of the nature of the conflict, never lose your composure and stay away from physical fights.
Even if you were in the right, it does not look good on your record; you may even face suspension. But most importantly, these fights will not bring anything positive to your mental health. Is someone provoking you? Report such unwanted behaviour to your seniors.
For the sake of your mental health, no brawling.
Conclusion
When you sign up to work on a commercial ship or a recreational vessel like a superyacht, you must maintain your professional demeanour. Be honest, upfront, and mindful about your work. By having a passion for learning and accepting your mistakes, you can become a better seafarer.
If you wish to work on a superyacht, Sail and Power SA is here for you in South Africa. Based in Cape Town, we provide RYA courses and Superyacht crew training courses. For more information, please contact us or check out our website today!