Abstract
This paper aims at pointing out the necessity of raising the levels of both communicative competence and Maritime English knowledge of seafarers, as well as of introducing a common language testing system into maritime education and training. It provides insight into the process of implementation of improvements in a different, but related practice of Aviation English and the relative regulations. Also, the paper presents the accounts of one aircraft accident, and two ship accidents due to the participants’ misunderstanding, or deficiency in English. This is followed by the results of an investigation into the reports published by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) about the sea accidents due to inadequate English language competence, or inadequate professional communication. Although there are commonly more than one cause which combine in each accident, these are usually fuelled by inadequate language competence. It is of utmost importance, especially in emergencies, that all the participants in the maritime venture are adequately competent in Maritime English to handle the emergencies to the benefit of all the persons involved. Therefore, the compulsory introduction of a uniform global language certification is suggested.
Highlights
The problem of inadequate English language skills among ships’ crews is not unknown
The Maritime English Instructor Training Course (MEITC), a course developed by Marlins for the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), which aims at enhancing the qualifications of the instructors of Maritime English, should not remain unmentioned either
From the data presented above and the relative discussion, it can be concluded that: 1. The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has long recognised the importance of the introduction of uniform testing of the English language proficiency of the personnel involved in the air traffic
Summary
The problem of inadequate English language skills among ships’ crews is not unknown. In 2016, 85 total losses of ships of 100 GT and above occurred worldwide resulting in 2,611 deaths. In the subsequent reports and discussion about the actual causes of accidents, technical failure or human error is often cited. In the subsequent reports and discussion about the actual causes of accidents, technical failure or human error is often cited. Overall equipment requirements are leading to progressive mechanisation, automation, and digitalization of ships’operation, a development which includes an increased surveillance of the crews. One such example was the introduction of Voyage Data Recorder on civilian ships starting from 1 July, 2002.3 These are comparable to Black Box flight recorders, which had existed for several decades in civil aviation before the date mentioned. In the following parts 1 and 2.1, there is reference to Aviation English, as the participants in the air traffic have already realised the importance of common occupational and working language in the avoidance of accidents, and have implemented the necessary changes. In order to emphasise the importance of Maritime English as occupational and working language in shipping, an analysis of MAIB reports of accidents at least partly due to language
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