A Guide to Arriving at the Root Cause of an Accident/Incident Onboard Ships for the Safety of Seafarers
By: Rogelio Arcega Jr. M.M
Accidents and incidents onboard ships can have severe consequences, not only for the vessel itself but also for the lives of seafarers. Understanding the root cause of these incidents is crucial to prevent their recurrence and ensure the safety and well-being of those working at sea. By following a systematic approach, maritime professionals can effectively arrive at the root cause of accidents/incidents, allowing for targeted corrective measures and enhanced safety protocols.
The first step in determining the root cause of an accident/incident is to conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation. This investigation should encompass all aspects related to the event, including gathering information from witnesses, examining physical evidence, and reviewing relevant documentation. It is essential to create an environment where seafarers feel comfortable sharing their experiences and perspectives without fear of repercussions.
During the investigation, it is crucial to adopt a multidisciplinary approach. Involving individuals with
diverse expertise, such as marine engineers, navigational officers, safety officers, and human factor
specialists, can provide a comprehensive understanding of the incident. This collaborative effort
ensures that all aspects, from technical failures to human errors, are taken into account.
Furthermore, utilizing tools such as root cause analysis (RCA) can aid in the identification of
underlying causes (failures). RCA involves systematically analyzing the event, its contributing factors,
and the sequence of events leading up to the incident. By asking ‘why’ repeatedly, investigators can
delve deeper into the layers of causation until they reach the fundamental root cause. This method
helps to uncover not only immediate causes (Triggers) but also underlying systemic issues (Failures)
that may have contributed to the incident.
To arrive at an accurate root cause, it is crucial to maintain a blame-free environment throughout
the investigation process. The focus should be on understanding the factors that led to the incident
rather than assigning blame to individuals. This approach encourages open and honest
communication, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the incident.
Furthermore, it is essential to consider the human element in the investigation process. Human
factors, such as fatigue, stress, communication breakdowns, and inadequate training, often play a
significant role in accidents/incidents onboard ships. Examining these factors and identifying any
gaps in training, procedures, or crew resource management can help address underlying issues
(failures) and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Once the root cause has been identified, it is crucial to develop targeted corrective action. These
actions should be focused on addressing the underlying issues (failures) and improving safety
measures. It is essential to involve all relevant stakeholders, including ship management, regulatory
bodies, and seafarers themselves, in the development and implementation of these corrective
actions. Regular monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of these measures are also crucial to
ensure their long-term success.
Therefore, unraveling the depths and arriving at the root cause of accidents/incidents onboard ships is a vital process for the safety of seafarers. By conducting thorough investigations, utilizing tools such s root cause analysis, and considering the human element, maritime professionals can identify the underlying causes (Failures) and implement targeted corrective actions. This proactive approach not only enhances safety onboard ships but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and learning within the maritime industry.
RAJ
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