Shipboard Safety Officer Notes

Shipboard Safety Officer Notes is a clear and practical guide for seafarers undertaking the role of Shipboard Safety Officer. Focused on the day-to-day realities of maintaining onboard safety and responding to hazards, it explains both the regulatory requirements and the soft skills needed to build a strong safety culture at sea.

The book covers selection and appointment of a Safety Officer, applicable IMO requirements, onboard safety organisation, communication and motivation, risk assessment, and incident investigation. With advice on how to approach the role professionally and effectively, this guide helps ensure that drills, inspections and risk mitigation are meaningful and compliant.

This is an ideal reference for deck officers undertaking the Safety Officer role, whether newly appointed or seeking to refresh their knowledge in line with best practice.

Table of Contents

• 1. The Role of the Safety Officer
• 2. Background to the Creation of the Role
• 3. The Safety Organisation Onboard Ship
• 4. Safety Culture
• 5. Risk Assessment
• 6. Incident Investigation and Prevention
• Appendix 1 - Codes and Legislation
• Appendix 2 - MAIB Incident Report Form and MGN 289
• Glossary of Main Terms
• Acronyms and Abbreviations
• References
• Bibliography

About the Author

Abdul Khalique is a Master Mariner with extensive teaching experience in maritime safety. Formerly a Principal Lecturer at Warsash Maritime Academy and Head of the LJMU Maritime Centre, he brings a wealth of knowledge in practical safety management and regulatory compliance.