Evaluation of Shipping Companies Safety Management System: Basis for Policy Enhancement

According to the statistics by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG, 2016), there were 3,157 ship incidents reported from the year 2011 to 2016 in the Philippines. Researchers aim to conduct an evaluation among the seafarers regarding the maritime safety management system practiced by the company that will serve as a basis for policy enhancement. Researchers utilized the quantitative-descriptive method of research. In this study, the researcher used a three (3) part structured type questionnaire. Respondents of the study are those licensed seafarers that have seagoing service for at least one (1) year. A purposive sampling method was used by the researchers. The study was conducted in the Province of Quezon. Data gathered were analyzed and interpreted using the following statistical treatment: weighted arithmetic mean system and ranking. Findings revealed that the respondents strongly agree with the assessment of the guidelines that the shipping company follows in terms of SMS documentation, emergency response planning, hazard identification, and risk assessment and mitigation. In terms of the evaluation of the implementation of the safety management system (SMS) onboard, the respondents strongly agree that it helps the crew, vessel, and the environment. The aspect that needs further enhancement to reduce the risks and hazards onboard, the respondents most perceived needs are the following; the established and maintained SMS information in a suitable medium that provides direction in related documents; the process in place to investigate and analyze reported events and; the documentation and information that are in line with the most current regulations, standards and exemptions.