The operating environment in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz remains challenging and may change with little notice. The area has been designated as a Warlike Operations Area by ITF/JNG, reflecting increased risk to seafarers and activating specific crew rights and entitlements under IBF agreements.

Crew Welfare & Loss Prevention Priorities

Masters are advised to place particular emphasis on crew welfare and Loss Prevention measures during this period. Key focus areas include:

• Fatigue management: Ensure adequate rest hours, monitor workload distribution, and adjust routines where operationally feasible.
• Situational awareness: Reinforce bridge team management, lookout effectiveness, and adherence to company security procedures.
• Morale and communication: Maintain open dialogue, encourage questions, and provide updates on the situation as far as practicable.
• Psychological wellbeing: Be attentive to signs of stress, anxiety, or reduced performance. Encourage early reporting of concerns.

Crews should be reminded that raising safety‑related issues is both welcome and expected. Any requests for information regarding rights, repatriation, or safety should be escalated promptly through company channels.

Operational Considerations

Operational disruption — including navigational interference, delays, and port‑level constraints — may affect voyage execution and crew change arrangements. Decisions may need to be taken at short notice, with safety and wellbeing as the primary consideration.

Any difficulties relating to:

• medical access,
• crew changes,
• repatriation, or
• security concerns

should be reported immediately through the company’s designated reporting structure.

What Crew Can Do

Crew members are encouraged to:

• Stay informed through official onboard briefings.
• Follow all safety and security instructions without deviation.
• Report fatigue, stress, or wellbeing concerns early.
• Maintain vigilance during watchkeeping and deck operations.
• Support one another and promote a calm, professional atmosphere onboard.
• Use company‑provided helplines or welfare services if they feel distressed or need confidential support.

Welfare Support & Helplines

Where available, crew should be reminded of:

• Company‑specific helplines 
• 24/7 mental health support lines contracted by the company
• Welfare organisations (e.g., ISWAN’s Seafarer Help) if permitted by company policy

Masters should ensure that contact details for these services are posted in accessible areas and communicated during briefings.

Club Support

The Club continues to monitor the situation closely and remains available to support Members and vessels where crew welfare or Loss Prevention issues arise.