Maritime safety remains one of the fundamental pillars of global shipping. Despite advances in technology and regulation, the risks inherent in navigation — from human error to extreme weather conditions — require proactive and well-structured risk management.

In this article, we explore best practices in maritime safety, with a particular focus on three key areas: operational protocols, crew training, and technology applied to incident prevention. We also discuss how new regulations and digital tools are transforming the approach to safer and more efficient navigation.

Maritime security protocols: the first line of defence

Risk assessment and contingency plans

Every maritime operation must begin with a systematic risk assessment. This identification allows for the development of Risk Management Plans (RMPs) that consider possible emergency scenarios: fires on board, collisions, spills, medical evacuations, among others.

Organisations such as the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) establish international guidelines in their ISM Code (International Safety Management), which requires shipping companies to implement safety management systems tailored to their operations.

Standardised procedures on board

Having standard operating procedures (SOPs) reduces the risk of human error, which according to DNV accounts for more than 75% of maritime incidents. From cargo verification to maintenance routines, each phase must be documented, audited, and updated.

🔍 Practical example: On passenger ships, evacuation drills must be conducted weekly with the entire crew, and signed records must be kept.

2. Crew training: the human key to safety

STCW programmes: international basis for training

The training of seafarers is regulated by the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) Convention, adopted by more than 150 countries. This framework defines the skills required to operate safely on board: from navigation to firefighting and first aid.

Courses must be recertified periodically and include specific training depending on the type of vessel (chemical tankers, LNG carriers, cruise ships, etc.).

Simulation of real scenarios

A growing trend in maritime training centres is the use of bridge and engine room simulators, where crews can train for emergency situations without any real risk. This improves decision-making under pressure and strengthens coordination between departments on board.

💡 Relevant fact: According to a report by Lloyd’s Register, companies that incorporate simulators into their training programmes reduce incidents related to operational errors by 28%.

3. Technology and digitisation: real-time prevention

Advanced navigation systems (ECDIS and RADAR ARPA)

The implementation of electronic systems such as ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) has revolutionised safe navigation, enabling dynamic route visualisation, proximity alerts and hazard detection.

Combined with the AIS (Automatic Identification System), ships can anticipate collisions, optimise trajectories and reduce risks in congested areas.

Internet of Things (IoT) and predictive maintenance

Onboard sensors—from engines to maritime safety systems—allow real-time monitoring of the status of each critical component. Thanks to predictive maintenance, breakdowns can be avoided before they become emergencies.

🛰️ Example: On refrigerated cargo ships, IoT sensors can detect leaks in cold storage rooms before they compromise the cargo, preventing millions in losses.

Artificial Intelligence and data analysis

Artificial intelligence applied to maritime big data makes it possible to detect risk patterns based on thousands of trajectories, weather conditions, or types of previous incidents. Platforms such as Wartsila’s Fleet Safety and DNV Veracity are already integrating this type of analysis to suggest real-time adjustments and prevent incidents.

4. Safety culture: beyond the rules

Active leadership and open communication

A strong organisational culture of safety begins with setting an example. Captains, officers, and shipowners must encourage open communication, where any member can report anomalies without fear of reprisals.

Safety leadership programmes and anonymous safety reports (Near Miss Reports) are key tools for building a more risk-aware environment.

Internal audits and external reviews

Regular internal inspections together with third-party audits ensure regulatory compliance and continuous improvement. Organisations such as the Paris MoU publish black and grey lists of flags with the worst safety performance, which directly affects the reputation and operations of shipping companies.

📌 Check the updated list of Paris MoU:
https://www.parismou.org/detentions-banning/white-grey-and-black-lists

Conclusion: security, a strategic investment

Risk management in the maritime sector is not simply a matter of regulatory compliance, but rather a key strategy for sustainability, competitiveness, and operational efficiency. The combination of robust protocols, well-trained crews, and cutting-edge technologies makes it possible to reduce incidents, protect human lives, and safeguard the environment.

Companies that adopt a preventive and innovative approach will be better prepared for the challenges of the present and the future of the maritime industry. Need advice? Contact us now!