Crowley Maritime Corporation was recognized today with a 2015 AMS Safety Award by American Maritime Safety, Inc. (AMS) for the company’s implementation of a drug and alcohol awareness program for crewmembers that perform safety-sensitive functions on vessels calling U.S. ports. This program contains various non-industry standard items, above and beyond the requirements including: searches that prohibit all types of substances that may impair safety; specialized online refresher training; and development of an onboard collector’s guide to provide step-by-step instructions in the event a drug collection must be performed aboard one of Crowley’s owned or managed vessels.
“Crowley evinces a determination to not just meet, but exceed U.S. Coast Guard standards relating to the prevention of substance abuse,” commented AMS President Lee Seham. “We see this with respect to testing levels, training programs, and Crowley’s pro-active efforts to identify new forms of substance abuse in the general population and prevent their introduction into the maritime community.”
Each year, the AMS Safety Advisory Committee presents member companies with safety awards in recognition of their dedication to preserving the marine environment and promoting safe vessel navigation, operations and maritime work practices. These safety awards are designed to recognize vessel operators for their proactive efforts toward achieving safe and responsible vessel practices.
“Crowley has a long, historical focus on safety and we are always honored when organizations such as AMS recognize our prioritization of safe operations,” said Charlie Nalen, vice president of safety, security, quality and environmental stewardship. “Over the years, we have worked to enhance our safety culture resulting in a continuing reduction in incidents and increased protection of people, property and the environment – setting the tone for our employees to assume accountability for their own personal safety, as well as that of those around them. This focus has been successful as is evidenced by this prestigious recognition.”
Each company in the Crowley family places the highest emphasis on individual safety, security, environmental protection and customer satisfaction. Crowley’s management system processes ensure a safe, secure and healthy workplace; protection of the environment and quality service for customers.
“This system is critical to our performance and upholding it is the responsibility of all employees,” said Nalen.