THE International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has announced the release of its new Deck Procedures Guide.
This publication seeks to address a gap in maritime safety guidance by providing the industry's “first comprehensive resource” specifically aimed at deck operations.
Together with the Bridge Procedures Guide and Engine Room Procedures Guide, this new publication completes a trilogy of core resources.
While these three guides provide department-specific procedures, they form part of ICS’s broader portfolio of safety publications that support shipowners and operators.
"Deck operations are fundamental to ship safety, and crews need clear, validated procedures for every scenario they face," said John Stawpert, ICS principal director-marine.
"This guide delivers that comprehensive knowledge, from traditional practices to new considerations such as alternative fuels, helping crews operate confidently while maintaining the highest safety standards."
The Deck Procedures Guide has been developed via a review process involving representatives from Swire Shipping, Anglo-Eastern Univan Group, Japanese Shipowners Association, MISC Group, Intercargo, and CLIA.
The content is designed to be adaptable, enabling organisations to tailor procedures to their specific operational needs while ensuring compliance with international codes.
The guide is designed as an invaluable tool for masters, chief officers, deck officers, bosuns and other members of deck crew, as well as engineering officers.
ICS recommends a copy be carried on board every ship.
It also serves ship superintendents, technical superintendents, HSEQ managers, shipping company shoreside safety teams, training institutions, terminal operators, and organisations transitioning to alternative fuel operations.
"Every onboard department needs to work together to ensure the safety and security of the crew, ship, environment and cargo," said ICS commercial director Emily Yates.
"The Deck Procedures Guide complements the Bridge and Engine Room Procedures Guides, creating a harmonised set of resources that uphold best practice across ship operations.
“While aligned for consistency, each guide is tailored to its audience, ensuring masters, engineers, and deck crews receive guidance directly relevant to their responsibilities.”
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