Maritime industry responds to online speculation

Members of the South African maritime industry take to social media to correct speculative comments

SOUTH AFRICA: While the mainstream media has largely focused on reporting the verified facts relating to the accident that resulted in the loss of five crew members this week, the comment sections on social media have been more speculative, prompting members of the maritime community to rally to provide a better understanding of the offshore environment.

On the whole the online environment has been dominated by touching messages of condolence left by strangers, the industry and fellow seafarers, but human nature has led many to speculate about the facts of the incident and offer their own take on the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.

Probably one of the most prevalent comments has related to the use of lifejackets, with many suggesting that these were not being worn. The logic behind this speculation appears to rely on the deduction that, had the crew been wearing lifejackets, they would not have succumbed to the elements.

Members of the maritime industry are ensuring that this type of speculation is not allowed to fester. Confirming that the crew would have been wearing this form of personal protective equipment (PPE) as a matter of procedure, they have helped the public understand that, given the sea conditions, lifejackets are not always a guarantee of survival at sea.

Similarly, discussions around the need for all seafarers to be extremely proficient swimmers are being addressed in the same context of the same sea conditions. Even strong swimmers are challenged by conditions at sea and in large swells such as those experienced in the Mossel Bay incident.

Other comments about the decision-making process relating specifically to the launch of the Fast Rescue Boat (FRB) are understandable. However, no conclusions about these can be drawn ahead of the finalisation of the reports or inquiries being undertaken by both the company and the South African Maritime Safety Authority.

Operations continued yesterday in an effort to recover the two missing seafarers. The Umkhuseli has entered the Port of Mossel Bay where the crew will be relieved by a full complement of 22 to ensure that the vessel can return to station for marine emergency response.

Known for its safety-first focus, vessel owner African Marine Solutions (AMSOL) has formal resources available to employees and their families across the company, including access to a dedicated social worker. The company has confirmed that ongoing support is currently being provided to the families of the deceased at this time.

Comments from across the industry continue to underscore the reality of a close-knit community of seafarers that has been deeply affected by the accident.