Piracy is a threat to all sizes of vessels in some parts of the world.
The more we know, the more we can minimise the risks and react to dangerous situations – or avoid them altogether. To this end the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) has produced an Anti-Piracy & Hostage Situation Awareness DVD (IMCA SEL 028) in five languages on the one DVD (English, French, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese) as guidance for personnel working on board vessels operating in high risk areas.
“The DVD runs for just over 15 minutes and covers a range of measures intended to compliment company anti-piracy procedures,” says Hugh Williams, Chief Executive of IMCA. “It highlights the main areas affected, which constantly change and are the subject of differing motives, all of which could involve harm to crew members.
“Assessing the hazard, carrying out risk analysis, ensuring steps are taken to prevent the vessel coming under attack; and relevant responses are all covered – with sections devoted to protection, training, preparation and precautions. It also discusses the steps that should be taken if the vessel is boarded by pirates and the crew is taken hostage. ”It is in everyone’s interest to take precautions against attack, and to stay safe; we hope that many organisations will make good use of this DVD.”