Prevention of and Response to Violence and Harassment, including Sexual Harassment, Bullying, and Sexual Assault

Aim:

To provide seafarers with the knowledge, awareness, and competence to recognise, prevent, and respond effectively to incidents of violence and harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and sexual assault in the maritime workplace, ensuring a safe and respectful working environment onboard.

Objectives:

On completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Define and identify different forms of violence and harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and sexual assault.
2. Understand the continuum of harm and the social, physical, and psychological consequences for victims, perpetrators, bystanders, and the broader crew.
3. Recognise contributing factors such as abuse of power, discrimination, stress, isolation, fatigue, drug or alcohol use, and cultural barriers.
4. Take appropriate action to intervene, report, and respond to incidents following established onboard and company policies.
5. Apply the principles of trauma-informed response, offering appropriate care and support to victims and bystanders.
6. Promote a culture of mutual respect, inclusivity, and zero tolerance towards harassment and violence onboard.

Course Modules

Module 1: Understanding Violence and Harassment

• Definition and types: verbal, physical, psychological, sexual
• The continuum of harm: from incivility to assault
• Global and maritime perspectives (ILO and IMO frameworks)

Module 2: Consequences and Impacts

• Physical, mental, and social consequences on victims
• Impact on team morale, safety, and operational efficiency
• Role and responsibility of bystanders and ship management

Module 3: Contributing Factors

• Abuse of authority or power imbalance
• Discrimination and bias
• Stress, isolation, and fatigue onboard
• Substance abuse and cultural sensitivity

Module 4: Prevention and Intervention Strategies

• Company policies and IMO expectations
• Establishing respectful communication and an inclusion culture
• Recognising early signs and risk factors
• Bystander intervention: when and how to act safely

Module 5: Reporting and Response Procedures

• How to report incidents (shipboard and ashore)
• Maintaining confidentiality and protection from retaliation
• Recordkeeping and follow-up in accordance with SMS and DPA procedures

Module 6: Trauma-Informed Response and Support

• Principles of trauma-informed care
• How to respond appropriately to victims
• Providing immediate emotional support and referral pathways
• Self-care for responders and bystanders