Enhancing Safety Culture Through Effective Soft Skills Training in Maritime Education

Abstract

The maritime industry, fundamental to global trade, faces persistent safety challenges primarily driven by human error. This review explores the role of soft skills training in enhancing safety culture within maritime education. It examines the impact of training in communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving on maritime safety. Effective communication is essential for preventing misunderstandings and ensuring clarity, especially in high-pressure situations. Training programs tailored to address language barriers and cultural differences can significantly improve safety outcomes. Teamwork and leadership skills are crucial for coordinating operations and making informed decisions, particularly during emergencies. Problem-solving training, through simulations and case studies, enhances critical thinking and situational awareness, leading to improved safety performance. The review also offers recommendations for integrating soft skills training into maritime education, emphasizing the need for curriculum development, instructor training, and continuous evaluation. By investing in comprehensive soft skills training, maritime organizations can foster a robust safety culture, reduce the incidence of accidents, and enhance overall operational efficiency.