Why Maritime English Testing is Paramount to Effective Communication & the Safety of Vessels

Maritime English is a specialised form of communication used by professionals in the maritime industry, designed to ensure effective communication, safety, and operational efficiency at sea and in ports used by seafarers on land and sea. In a field where seafarers, ship officers, engineers, and port authorities come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, Maritime English acts as a standardised language that transcends potential language barriers. It plays a critical role in maintaining safety, coordinating complex operations, and adhering to international regulations.

Maritime English encompasses a wide range of terms, phrases, and protocols relevant to maritime operations. Its scope covers everything from navigation to emergency procedures, making it an indispensable part of life at sea. Professionals in the industry, including deck officers, engineers, and even port authorities, rely on Maritime English for their day-to-day operations.

Miscommunication is a significant contributing factor to maritime accidents, quantifying the exact number of incidents solely attributed to this issue can be challenging. However, several studies and reports indicate that a substantial percentage of maritime accidents result from communication failures.

Research indicates that around 70% to 80% of maritime accidents can be traced back to human error, which includes miscommunication, misunderstandings, and lack of clarity in instructions. A report by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) in the UK found that communication issues contributed to approximately 50% of maritime accidents they investigated.

Studies on Bridge Resource Management (BRM) suggest that poor communication, especially in multicultural crews, is a significant factor in incidents and accidents. Effective communication practices have been shown to reduce accident rates. An analysis of specific maritime accidents, such as collisions or groundings, often reveals that miscommunication between crew members or between vessels can lead to disastrous consequences.

Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP)

Developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), SMCP is a collection of standardised phrases designed to facilitate clear communication between ships and shore. These phrases help minimise misunderstandings and ensure effective communication, especially during emergencies.

The ultimate goal is to minimise misunderstandings between vessels and between ships and shore authorities, especially in situations where crews come from different linguistic backgrounds. The development of SMCP was part of the IMO’s broader efforts to enhance maritime safety by ensuring clear and unambiguous communication, particularly during navigation and emergency situations. The SMCP was formally adopted in 2001 and remains an essential tool for safe maritime operations.

Maritime English Testing & Certification

To ensure that maritime professionals can effectively communicate in English, Maritime English Testing is often required. This involves assessing a seafarer’s proficiency in key areas of communication relevant to their role.

VIRSEC’s Maritime English Tests (METs) are Approved by The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). Each test is an assessment that evaluates a seafarer’s levels of English competency and communication skills for maritime roles. Designed to support ship operators and employers in making informed recruitment and training decisions, METs evaluate the English language comprehension and skills of crew members, including Deck Ratings, Engine Ratings, Junior Deck Officers, Junior Engine Officers, Senior Deck Officers, Senior Engine Officers, and Cruise Ship Staff. These Maritime English Tests are taken completely online with no requirement to travel to a Test Centre.

Key Components of Maritime English Testing Include

• Language Proficiency: Testing the ability to speak, listen, read, and write in English, with a focus on maritime-specific vocabulary and phrases.
• Use of SMCP: Ensuring candidates can use and understand the standardised phrases outlined by the IMO for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication.
• International Compliance: Maritime English testing ensures compliance with the IMO’s STCW requirements, helping shipping companies and crew meet international safety and operational standards.

Those who successfully pass these tests receive a certificate verifying their language competency, assisting them with employment opportunities in international maritime operations.

Maritime English as a Requirement for Employment

Proficiency in Maritime English is often a requirement to work on commercial vessels and cruise ships. Whether for crew members, engineers, or officers, being able to communicate effectively in English is necessary for maintaining safety, adhering to regulations, and carrying out operational tasks. For cruise ships in particular, the ability to communicate in English is also essential for interacting with passengers from diverse language backgrounds, ensuring smooth guest services and safety procedures.

Official Standards for English Language Testing

The official standards for English language testing are generally set by various organisations and institutions to assess language proficiency for different purposes, such as academic, professional, or immigration requirements. The standards are often aligned with internationally recognised frameworks such as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) Scale, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), among others.

To Summarise

Maritime English is the cornerstone of communication in the maritime industry, crucial for both safety and efficiency. From ensuring compliance with international regulations to improving operational workflows and preventing accidents, it forms the foundation of the global maritime sector. Given the international nature of shipping and the high stakes of safety at sea, proficiency in Maritime English is not just an asset … It’s a necessity.

An Article By: Sheldon Kaye | VIRSEC Global Business Development

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To make enquiries regarding these Maritime English Tests (METs), please contact us at: training@virsec.org, by phone: +44 (0)161 763 4427 (UK Head Office) asking for Olivia or Cathy.