M2613 - Bullying ship manager – safety and leadership culture ashore?

Initial Report

“The vessel’s manager consistently behaves aggressively, intimidating and humiliating the crew.

He insists on illegal actions, such as MARPOL violations, pumping out engine room bilge water without using the oily water separator (OWS), and several other things. When we said that it was unlawful, he started shouting and threatening that we would lose our jobs. We don’t want to commit a crime or breach the regulations, but we also need to work to support our families.

We are seeking your assistance to stop this harassment, intimidation, and abusive behaviour by the vessel manager. We have already approached company DPA, but they are trying to hide the issue and are not helping us.”

CHIRP Comment

This report raises serious concerns about crew welfare and regulatory compliance. Aggressive, intimidating, or humiliating behaviour by a vessel manager can significantly affect morale and safety. Seafarers should never feel pressured to engage in illegal acts, such as bypassing MARPOL regulations. When internal reporting channels fail, it is essential to be aware of other options, including flag state authorities, port state control, and independent safety organisations. Maintaining detailed records of incidents is crucial, and seafarers should seek support from professional welfare or legal bodies if necessary. The main lesson is that safety and compliance must take priority, and a respectful working environment is essential for everyone on board. CHIRP has contacted the management company for a response.

Fear has no place at sea – compliance, respect, and safety must guide every decision.

Key Issues relating to this report

Communications – The vessel manager’s aggressive and intimidating behaviour prevents open communication, making the crew feel unsafe to report concerns and blocking proper feedback and reporting channels.

Pressure – The situation promotes “fear-driven compliance” rather than safety-oriented behaviour.

Teamwork – The manager’s behaviour creates a hostile environment and erodes trust within the team, especially towards the engineers. Effective leadership is absent, and intimidation prevails.

Key Takeaways

Regulators: Promptly address harassment and illegal practices.

Effective oversight and support for safe reporting are essential for vessel safety.

Managers: Leadership through intimidation endangers everyone.

Respect, communication, and adherence to regulations are non-negotiable. Kind leadership implemented across the company will ultimately eradicate poor management behaviours.

Seafarers: Be aware of the options for help globally when communications with your management company are difficult