Program of shipboard inspections and reports on equipment safety, crew training and consumables is proving a valuable contributor to promoting best practice.
Shipowners and operators are reaping the benefits of the Wilhelmsen Ships Service Welding Safety Campaign, which highlights the need for safe equipment and working practices, together with quality training onboard ship.
The campaign comprises inspections of onboard equipment to provide help and guidance to shipowners in complying with local and national standards and promoting crew competence.
Working with leading shipowners and managers, WSS has completed dozens of onboard inspections and produced reports that enable superintendents and crew to practise safe and efficient welding. The following are a selection of the comments received.
“The inspections have been very valuable to us as a general assessment of equipment on board and also to bring awareness to our crew on risks involved for user and equipment. The recommendations are valuable and we now have a good and documented understanding of which specifications on what machines to look for.” Superintendent, Dredging International
“The inspection report is really comprehensive and has been forwarded to the vessel for action on improving the safety of the on-board welding installation in near future. Our crews have a very busy work schedule but at the end of the day, they understand that properly maintained and safe installation can prevent them from being injured.” Milan Smrcek, TMA Monaco.
Danny Ingemann, WSS Business Director, Marine Products says the response from owners validates the need to raise awareness among crews of the need for safe practice and high quality equipment when carrying out welding.
“The strong link that the Unitor brand has with shipowners and seafarers means we can fulfil equipment needs while maintaining a central focus on the safety of welding practices. The safety inspection service provides a practical means for owners to assess their current outfit, identify where improvements can be made and take steps to invest where needed.”
The core welding safety offer combines upgraded versions of Unitor-branded welding equipment, the provision of tailored solution packages, safety inspection services and improved logistics for fast and flexible supply of hardware and consumables. Additional training from WSS’ marine products specialists will be teamed with improved customer service throughout the WSS global network.