Page 21: of Marine News Magazine (January 2026)

20 22

Column

Training Tips for Ships ? ned in other sectors. Consider the approach of aviation:

Creating Psychological Safety to Deviate

Pilots operate using rigorous checklists, but their training

When Needed is equally extensive in handling abnormal and unexpect-

Mariners must believe they are allowed to think. If training ed situations. When a deviation occurs outside standard implicitly teaches that deviation from procedure is punish- procedures, pilots are drilled to execute a critical decision able, crews may hesitate in critical moments. Training leaders framework: stabilize the situation ? rst, then diagnose the should clearly communicate that informed deviation, when underlying issue, and ? nally, act. The checklist supports documented and justi? ed, is sometimes the safest choice.

this process, but it never supersedes judgment.

This does not mean abandoning standards. It means

Maritime training can adopt this proven model. Teach teaching when adherence matters most and when ? exibil- crews to prioritize safety of life, immediately stabilize ity is required. Encouraging open discussion about past conditions, and only then adapt procedures as needed. situations where procedures did not ? t builds trust and

Emphasizing clear decision frameworks rather than rig- reinforces sound judgment.

id steps prepares mariners for situations the guidance never imagined.

Preparing for the Inevitable Unknown

No organization can write a procedure for every possible

Drills That Allow Safe Failure failure. Training that only prepares crews for known sce-

Many drills are designed to go right. Everyone knows narios leaves a dangerous gap. By incorporating uncertain- the scenario, the outcome is predictable, and success is ty, decision making, and adaptive thinking into training expected. To train adaptability, some drills should allow programs, maritime organizations strengthen their crew’s controlled failure. Equipment might be unavailable. A key ability to respond when it matters most.

crew member might be simulated as incapacitated. Com-

The day the manual is useless is not a failure of prepara- munications might be delayed.

tion. It is a test of whether training went beyond the page.

The goal is not to embarrass or catch mistakes, but to When mariners are trained to understand systems, think practice recovery. Post drill discussions should focus on critically, and act responsibly under pressure, they are pre- how decisions were made, what signals were noticed, and pared not just to follow procedures, but to protect lives what alternatives existed. These conversations are where when procedures fall short.

the most valuable learning occurs.

Thank you for reading, and until next time, sail safely.

www.marinelink.com MN 21|