ClassNK
and Lovoy have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to cooperate with
development and implementation of more user-friendly Safety Management Systems
(SMS).
Lovoy has highlighted that many SMSs
have grown so complex that they lose sight of the end user – the seafarer. If procedures are user-friendly,
people will use them more with reduced risk of mistakes. The industry faces
many new requirements making user-friendly SMS design even more critical.
Introducing elements such as LNG fuel will most likely make SMSs even more
complicated.
ClassNK has engaged in SMS audits for
6,000 vessels and 800 companies to ensure that each system complies with
regulations. The
society has also worked to provide valuable insights and tools for enhancing
safety practices.
Both
parties have agreed that overly complex SMSs are not only a problem but also an
opportunity for improvement. With the signing of this MOU, the two parties will
join forces to support and improve safety at sea.
Capt.
Naoki Saito, General Manager of Maritime Training and Education Department,
ClassNK, said:
“To
support the shipping stakeholders’ ongoing and steadfast pursuit of safety,
ClassNK is committed to examining every possible approach to ensure elevate
safety standards. I am pleased to join hands with Lovoy in exploring potential
and measures that will contribute to this endeavor.”
Capt.
Terje Lovoy, Senior Partner, Lovoy, said:
“Quality is not a quick fix – it’s about making lasting change.
ClassNK is a world leader in quality management. Together, ClassNK and Lovoy
will make lasting change by training companies to permanently stop their own
people from putting unnecessary complexity into their SMSs.”