A Lesson In Respect From Merchant Navy

We all know there are so many requirements on seafarers from the rules and regulations, training demands and the fact that shipboard life demands a lot more than working in an office ashore.

But did you know there is a “Code of Conduct for the Merchant Navy”? Not many people do, and granted it is very British in nature but it is worth a read for all that.

The Code was agreed between Nautilus International, the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) and the UK Chamber of Shipping and approved by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency in 2013.

It sets out disciplinary rules and procedures which apply when you are employed to work on board ship, and tries to deal with the difficulties of seafaring being civilian occupation but one which imposes certain demands not found in land-based jobs. The tough reality of life at sea versus the softer non-military mindset.

Seafarers are often required to spend both their working and leisure hours in the confined environment of a ship with the same individuals. This can make seafarers more susceptible to the stresses of everyday life than those working ashore. In this environment, the need for discipline and good behaviour is particularly important.