KVH Videotel have launched free Zika Virus training materials for seafarers. The workbook and accompanying short video provide useful tips on how best to avoid contracting Zika Virus and is specifically aimed at mariners.“Zika Virus – Staying Safe” is designed to provide shipowners, managers and crew with a greater understanding of:
the nature of the disease: its symptoms, how it is treated, and how it spreads
how to avoid becoming infected
what to do if someone develops symptoms
the importance of keeping oneself and others safe from infection
the role of a pest management plan to avoid passive transportation of virus-infected mosquitoes on ships
In collaboration with I.M.E.Q., Sophia Bullard, Crew Health Director at UK P&I Club, discusses the issue of grief and its impact on crew, exploring the stages, signs and symptoms of grief, as well as coping mechanisms.
The UK P&I Club recently held a Webinar on the subject of Mooring operations and safety; the Webinar received overwhelming response with about 2350 registrations from 78 countries.
The preparation of cargo holds for the next intended carriage is a critical operation which requires careful planning and execution; this article considers a number of legal issues which may arise, including terms commonly used in charterparties to describe the cleanliness of cargo holds, the consequences of failing to comply with such terms, potentially resulting in off-hire claims and damages, and the role of the independent surveyor.
Hold preparation is probably the most vital part of bulk carrier operations; if it is not undertaken properly, it can result in substantial cargo claims, delays, additional cleaning, survey costs and expensive off-hire disputes.
