Introduction to Human Relations

Human relations onboard are of paramount importance since these can ensure a happy working environment. When a seafarer finds himself surrounded by people who respect and support him, he will in return do the same. This makes it easier for the crew onboard to work together in a team. 

It is therefore of utmost importance that every crew member onboard is treated with full respect and dignity. To achieve that, the working environment onboard should be free of any harassment or discrimination.  With that said, unfortunately, any workplace comprised of human beings is susceptible to friction between members of different gender, race, or culture therefore there is no way to ensure there will never be disputed.  

A set of rules is provided onboard to ensure that no crew member is ever permitted to engage in any verbal, physical, racial, or even sexual harassment. 

Keeping in mind that small spaces such as shared cabins increase the possibility of personal differences such as issues with regards to cleanliness, being a smoker or non-smoker, being a person who likes nightlife, etc. These disputes must be solved in a friendly manner to ensure the retention of a good relationship onboard and avoid grudges and confrontations. For this to take place, an individual would need to make changes to his lifestyle to compromise with his fellow roommate. 

Sometimes negotiations between crew members, even though carried out in a dignified way, might still not be successful. It is at this point that persons involved should ensure that they take their problem to their supervisor to avoid it becoming bigger and unsolvable. 

Every crew member onboard should understand that the successful operation of the ship depends entirely on the cooperation of all the seafarers onboard. Hence, it is a responsibility that belongs to every crew member onboard to ensure proper maintenance of personal relationships. The maintenance of good friendship and team spirit is, therefore, a priority onboard ships.