The maritime industry is notorious for braving the elements. One element however — the human one — poses greater safety risk than rough seas or gale-force winds and is requiring more companies to take an aggressive approach in emphasizing every employee’s role in their risk management efforts. While maritime companies have developed technologically sophisticated hull designs, stability systems, propulsion systems, and navigational equipment, overall the industry’s safety record could be better. It is undoubtedly one of the world’s most risky and complex industries. And as such, it requires very attentive focus on safety and risk management issues, especially in light of the economic and workforce issues facing the industry today.