The Covid-19 pandemic has caused an enormous impact in our lives, personally and professionally. The uncertainty it brings leaves most of us operating in uncharted waters.
As a seafarer, I can say this pandemic has created problems in our working environment, with the biggest of these being crew changes.
After a year like no other, TradeWinds asked 40 shipping industry stakeholders what they see for 2021 after a year beset by the coronavirus, and how the pandemic will shape shipping's future.
Despite the general lockdowns, vessels continue to trade worldwide. People involved in the shipping industry, and specifically the seafarers — the “unseen heroes” of this pandemic — are playing an important role by ensuring the safe transportation of more than 80% of trade, including essential commodities, vital food, medical goods, energy and raw materials.
More than half of the global workforce is working remotely. But for people employed on board vessels, this is not an option. We have many seafarers worldwide that have been stranded on board. They are awaiting safe repatriation, while others are waiting at home to join a ship again and earn their living.
Contactless challenges
Aside from travel problems, a challenge I have faced in my working environment is the contactless operations put in place at ports.
Most, such as loading, discharging and bunkering, are being done remotely as a safety measure to avoid any contact with third parties. However, this requires high standards of professionalism, flawless preparation, excellent communication and the necessary support for a successful operation.
The company I am working for gives continuous support, appreciation for on-board crew and prioritises the safety, wellness and health of its employees while providing guidance and information on the measures that need to be implemented to manage a Covid-19 outbreak, both ashore and on board.
Besides the challenges we are facing on board, we also see many opportunities and new procedures established.
These include the improvement of our on-board communication with faster and free internet connection with our homes; virtual meetings between shore and ship staff with all ranks participating, [giving us] the opportunity to discuss any related concerns and immediate follow-up; weekly updates on crew changes and Covid-19, along with campaigns focusing on our well-being and mental health; and setting up 24/7 medical assistance, an action and outbreak management plan for coronavirus and the supply of pandemic protection kits to on-board crew.
We are unable to forecast the outcome from this pandemic, but I believe one person cannot make the difference.
Being proactive, with positive thinking and working together, will contribute to overcoming it.
We are entering a new era in the shipping industry, and adaptability is what is needed to transform the challenges into opportunities.
