The most effective form of discipline is self-discipline.

Self-discipline involves  having a responsible attitude to work, concern for the efficient operation and safety of the vessel and for the comfort and convenience of other crewmembers.

 

Orders must be given and obeyed if a ship is to operate safely and efficiently. Co-operation will be gained if it is obvious to the crewmember that orders given are reasonable. If orders appear unreasonable then the crewmember is entitled to request an explanation. At the same time wilful or repeated refusal to comply with reasonable orders or other anti-social behaviour must be expected to have consequences.

 

An important factor in gaining co-operation is good communication. This applies both to communication between the Company and the vessel and to communications between personnel onboard the ship. If all concerned with the running of the ship are kept as fully informed as possible about the Company’s policies and objectives and are made aware of the importance of their own contribution to the voyage, co-operation and morale will be much improved.

 

Disciplinary procedures are a measure of last resort. They should only be needed where self-discipline and good communication have failed. Discipline procedures are designed to emphasize and encourage improvement in an individual's conduct and performance as well as to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel.

 

The following guidelines should be read in conjunction with disciplinary procedures embodied in the terms and conditions of employment for a particular nationality and the relevant flag state requirements.

     

A crew member who is alleged to have committed an act of misconduct or deemed to be under performing will be seen in the first instance by the Chief Officer or Chief Engineer (as appropriate). If the head of department is satisfied that an act of misconduct had occurred but that it calls for no more action than an informal warning, then he should proceed accordingly.

 

In the case of under-performance, it may be that additional training will provide the most effective solution.

 

If the offence is of a more serious nature or is a repetition of similar minor offences, then the case must be referred to the Master.

 

In any emergency or other situation in which the safety of the ship or of any person on board is at stake the Master, officers and senior ratings are entitled to look for immediate and unquestioning obedience of orders. There can be no exception to this rule. Failure to comply will be treated as among the most serious acts of misconduct and will lead to the crew members dismissal from the ship at the first opportunity. In extreme cases such an act of misconduct may also lead to prosecution.

    

In particular circumstances, especially where a member of crew has been involved in an operational incident, there may be a need for either retraining or further development. This may prove to be a more suitable alternative and/or addition to any other disciplinary action, particularly when dealing with experienced staff. In such cases, this will be fully discussed with the ship management team who shall make a decision on whether or not this is an acceptable solution.