In response to the recent surge in geopolitical uncertainty and heightened risks in maritime areas, Steamship Mutual, a leading Protection & Indemnity (P&I) insurance club, in collaboration with Marine Media Enterprises, has released a video offering crucial guidance on how to stay safe when navigating through high-risk maritime areas.
Instability In the Region
In the Red Sea, Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen continue to pose a major threat against commercial vessels, particularly those perceived to have links to Israel. These attacks, which began in late 2023, have significantly disrupted global shipping, forcing many vessels to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, adding considerable time and cost to voyages. While there have been periods of reduced Houthi attacks and a rebound in Red Sea shipping traffic, the underlying threat remains, with the Houthis repeatedly stating their intention to target Israeli-linked vessels or those bound for Israeli ports.
Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remains highly volatile amid escalating Iran-Israel tensions. This narrow chokepoint, through which a significant portion of global oil and LNG supplies pass, is a critical strategic asset. Iran has a history of threatening to close the Strait in response to sanctions or military pressure, and recent military operations and retaliatory strikes between Iran and Israel have intensified these concerns. While a full blockade remains unlikely due to the severe repercussions it would have for Iran itself, there is a persistent risk of disruptive actions, such as the harassment or seizure of commercial vessels, drone attacks, or mine-laying operations.
Widespread reports of electronic interference, including GPS jamming and AIS spoofing, in the Arabian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz further complicate the current situation. This interference poses significant navigational challenges and can lead to confusion and increased risk of accidents.
Key Measures
When transiting high-risk maritime areas, robust preparedness and adherence to established security protocols are paramount for the safety of the vessel, crew, and cargo. Here are key measures for ship masters and crew:
Pre-Transit Preparedness and Drills
- Familiarity with Security Plan: Crew members must be thoroughly familiar with the ship’s security plan, including emergency alarm warnings for an attack and the corresponding response procedures. Regular drills are crucial to ensure instinctive and effective reactions.
- Rest and Watchkeeping: Intense watchkeeping is essential in high-risk areas. Crew members must ensure they get sufficient rest to maintain these demanding duties effectively.
- Mental Resilience: Being prepared also involves strengthening mental resilience and building confidence among the crew. Onboard activities and support systems can aid in this.
Onboard Procedures During Transit
- Minimize Exposed Personnel: Only essential personnel should be on the bridge or in the engine room. All unnecessary activities on deck or in exposed locations should be ceased to reduce vulnerability.
- Designated Muster Points: In the event of a security alarm, all crew must immediately assemble in the designated safe muster point or citadel. They should remain there until the threat has passed and explicit orders to leave are given. Even then, personnel should stay clear of exposed locations until the ship is safely out of the high-risk area.
- Electronic Device Management: When approaching or within a high-risk area, non-essential electronic devices may need to be turned off. This reduces the ship’s electronic profile, making it less detectable to potential threats.
- Armed Security Guards: If armed security guards are on board, their guidance should be followed on strengthening the ship’s security. Their presence can also increase the crew’s confidence.
Communication and Support
- Reporting Procedures: Strict adherence to reporting procedures to control centers ashore is crucial. These centers monitor the ship’s progress, issue warnings of threats, and can mobilize military support for assistance and protection when necessary.
- Not Isolated: Crew members should remember that their ship is not as isolated and vulnerable as it might seem, as these control centers and international naval forces are actively monitoring and ready to respond.
- Family Contact: Once clear of the high-risk area, it is important to contact family members to assure them of safety and well-being.
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Source: Safety4sea
