June 25, 2018 — Odfjell goes one with the world in upholding seafarers’ wellbeing and wishing all sailors worldwide a good day at sea.
The observance of the Day of the Seafarer every June 25 was established when the Manila Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (the STCW Convention) was adopted in 2010.
The annual Day of the Seafarer, first observed in 2011, aims to recognize the contributions made by seafarers to the seaborne trade, the economy and the society.
This year, the main theme for the Day of the Seafarer is seafarers' wellbeing, aiming to highlight good practices in promoting the wellbeing of the crew, as well as uncover opportunities for improvement. In his video message for this year's Day of the Seafarer, IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim enumerated some factors affecting the quality of life at sea, which include "even simple things like internet access and provision of exercise facility on board the ship". As Odfjell SE CEO Kristian Mørch said as he addressed the crew in a video greeting:
"I'm pleased to say that in Odfjell, we are in the industry forefront when it comes to internet connection on board our ships, and our ships' digital connectivity will be further improved in the coming months and years. Our ships have exercise facilities on board and you are all acquainted with the annual healthy living program and the fitness instructor's visit to further support healthy initiatives"
The Manila office, where a main portion of Odfjell's Crewing Operations resides, observed the event by making the day extra special for visiting crew. Decorations were put up on the Reception Area, where a photo booth was also set up. Snacks were offered, and Odfjell merchandise was raffled off exclusively to the crewmembers.
To show their appreciation for the work Odfjell seafarers carry out at sea, shore personnel came to the office in blue, and wore Salute to Sailing Ambassador badges.
Fitness Instructor Edson Jabson offered wellness assessment to the reporting crew, sharing with them diet and exercise tips they may observe while on vacation. As Kristian Mørch empasized:
"Seafarers have sailed with Odfjell for more than one hundred years. Much have changed throughout the years but one thing remains the same: the importance of a competent and healthy crew on board"
Another thing that has remained the same: that it takes an entire organization to ensure that the crew is healthy and competent. As the CEO said:
“Let us continue to embrace our values to always care, have integrity, be reliable and to never compromise on safety.”
