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cyber security coverage for covered vessels and facilities.

PVA’s Flagship Safety Management Program has been around a long time. List some long- term bene? ts of this program, and what mem- bers have improved as they employ the tool.

PVA’s commitment to safety goes back to its roots as an organization and is institutionalized in the work of the

PVA Safety and Security Committee, which has tapped into the extensive knowledge and expertise of its mem- bers to develop a variety of powerful training tools for

PVA members to use in their company risk management programs. As these member resources have evolved, so Guard which is approaching a 60-year lifespan. There is too have the demands of PVA members for more sophis- generally a sense of mutual respect which enhances our in- ticated tools in which to enhance their safety practices. teractions and our appreciation for each other’s missions is

The Flagship Safety Management System (SMS) grew a direct result of this long-term connection. But the key to out of this demand and that of Congress and the Coast maintaining positive relations constant communications.

Guard for additional ways to improve safety aboard U.S. At PVA, we have been advocating, whenever possible, for passenger vessels. As a result, a Coast Guard/PVA Qual- more Coast Guard Industry Days. We recognize that it is ity Partnership working group was formed and tasked to dif? cult for the Coast Guard to sponsor these events. This create a voluntary alternative safety management system is why PVA, and PVA members, regularly offer to step in for the domestic passenger vessel industry. and host Industry Day meetings locally to foster an open

Implementing a safety management system such as Flag- dialogue between industry and the Coast Giard so that we ship offers PVA members numerous bene? ts. First, it en- can address pressing issues. In addition, many PVA mem- hances employee safety by identifying and mitigating risks, bers who are located in Coast Guard training ports have which reduces workplace accidents and injuries. This leads offered their vessels as training platforms during non-in- to a healthier, more productive workforce. spection times to assist the Coast Guard in training inspec-

Next, it ensures compliance with existing Coast Guard tors. We see this activity as being mutually bene? cial.

safety regulations. It will also help improve operational ef- ? ciency by streamlining safety procedures, reducing down- The environment is important, no matter what time caused by accidents. Additionally, implementing a sector of the marine industry and collective

Flagship SMS will help foster a positive company culture, waterfront you operate in. Domestic passenger and boost employee morale and engagement. Most im- vessels know this only too well, especially with portantly, implementing a Flagship SMS will improve a such a public-facing task of carrying hundreds company’s overall risk management program by providing of thousands of passengers monthly. That said; a structured approach to identifying, assessing, and con- the PVA Green Waters program is a voluntary trolling vulnerabilities. Ultimately, it supports long-term tool in the PVA toolbox. Have you used it to sustainability by reducing ? nancial losses from accidents “green up” your carbon signature, and if so, and insurance premiums, leading to cost savings. how? What can all PVA members do to become better stewards of our environment?

Your primary regulatory partner is the U.S. Coast PVA’s Green Waters Program is designed to promote en-

Guard. What would PVA like to see changed or vironmental sustainability within the U.S. passenger ves- improved within the Coast Guard’s domain in sel industry. The program, which was launched in 2012 the coming year? on Earth Day, encourages vessel operators to adopt eco-

PVA has a professional relationship with the Coast friendly practices that reduce their environmental impact, www.marinelink.com MN 15|