SAY NO TO BULLYING - SAY NO TO HARRASSMENT

The safe and efficient operation of any ship relies, amongst other things, on good team work. However, crew morale can be severely affected by two problems that, regrettably, still occur at sea - harassment and bullying. This training package comprises a video, which clearly spells out the effect on the lives of the victims, and an accompanying Guide that suggests how companies should go about eliminating such behaviour. There is also a CD-ROM aimed at those responsible for implementing policy on this subject.

The video features three dramatised scenarios aimed to provoke discussion on board. In the first story, a young cadet on a general cargo vessel is undermined by an aggressive and bullying Chief Engineer. His confidence is so destroyed he decides to quit the sea altogether. The second story shows a woman working on laundry operations on a cruise liner. She is harassed by an overbearing Manager and receives no support from her Staff Captain. The final tale, set on a Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel, involves the sexual harassment of a young, female supply officer by the ship's First Officer. She reports the incident to her Captain who takes appropriate action.

Companies should make it clear that people are entitled to work with dignity and without fear whether at sea or on land. They should provide clear guidelines that harassment and bullying of any sort is not acceptable. There must also be a designated person on board to deal with such matters. Further information on implementing appropriate policies can be found in the Guide.