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Safe and effective manual handling is essential at sea, as lifting and moving heavy objects is a routine part of daily work. 

As part of the Ship-Shape series, demonstrates the correct way to lift and set down items safely, both alone and with a partner, as routine tasks onboard often involve moving heavy, bulky, or awkward objects, making proper manual handling techniques critical to prevent injury. 

Key considerations:

  • When lifting independently, proper training and consistent attention to lifting form are essential. Practicing safe techniques every time enables seafarers to work longer, stronger, and more safely—while significantly reducing the risk of injury.
  • Proper lifting techniques are essential when handling items commonly found in warehouses or on-board ships. While some objects can be lifted alone, having assistance ensures safer handling. Correct technique—lifting with the legs while protecting the back—is critical to prevent injury.
  • The proper setup involves bending at the knees, entering a squat position, and positioning the body underneath the load. Items should be lifted using the legs, not the back, and moved safely. When setting objects down, lowering them in a controlled, coordinated manner is important.
  • Twisting motions should be avoided, and effort should come from the legs through the heels to reduce the risk of lower back pain, strains, and other injuries.
  • Even when lifting independently, proper form requires bending at the knees, lifting through the legs, and keeping the back out of the movement. Controlled placement of the load ensures both safety and efficiency.
  • Routine tasks, including walking long distances, checking equipment, and tightening lines, demand full-body engagement and can also serve as physical exercise. These activities require intentional movement, coordinating legs, arms, and core while maintaining focus. Tightening lines, for example, involves using both upper and lower body strength to secure them effectively.
  • Stretching is important to maintain flexibility and prevent injury. Effective routines include toe touches, calf stretches, arm mobility exercises, and stretches for the sides of the body.
  • Handling heavier equipment, such as mooring lines, requires careful attention to technique. Starting from a stable position, lifting with the legs, and maintaining full-body awareness reduces the risk of injury.
  • Consistent practice improves both efficiency and safety, allowing physically demanding tasks to be performed over extended periods while minimizing strain or injury.
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Attacks on commercial shipping are escalating as the Middle East conflict enters its 13th day. Overnight, Iranian explosive-laden boats reportedly attacked two fuel tankers in Iraqi waters, setting both vessels ablaze and killing one crew member.

In the past 48 hours, six vessels have reportedly been struck by projectiles or missiles, leaving several ships on fire and seafarers at the center of the unfolding crisis. To remind, on 11 March, three vessels were reported attacked. The Japan-flagged container ship ONE Majesty was struck by a suspected projectile, while the bulk carrier Star Gwyneth was hit while anchored, sustaining hull damage. The Thai-flagged vessel Mayuree Naree also suffered a strike which caused a fire and damage to the engine room. Three crew members remain missing and are believed to be trapped in the engine room.

Overnight on 12 March, two foreign oil tankers were set ablaze in Iraqi waters (reported as the Greek-owned chemical/product tanker Zefyros and the US-owned Safesea Vishnu) following an Iranian attack. At least one person was killed and 38 crew members were rescued. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the incident occurred approximately 5 nautical miles south of Al Basrah in Iraqi territorial waters, where a third party reported that two tankers had been struck by unknown projectiles.

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Below you will a weekly report dated 11 March 2026, covering the period of 5 to 11 March, where the following incidents were reported:

  • 1 maritime security incidents in West Africa in the last 7 days
  • 8 maritime security incidents in the Indian Ocean/Middle East in the last 7 days.

Full advisory at the following link.

https://britanniapandi.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ARC-Weekly-Report-11.03.26.pdf

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Further to Circular No. 05/26 of March 1, 2026, regarding the cancellation of War Risks cover for certain non-mutual covers in the Persian/Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, the Club advises that arrangements have now been made which may allow for the reinstatement of such cover for Charterers on a buy-back basis.

This coverage is subject to additional premium on a per voyage basis. For further details, rates, and terms and conditions, Members are asked to contact the Club’s Underwriting Department with full details of the relevant voyage.

The Notice that was issued on March 1, 2026, does not apply to mutual entries for P&I and FD&D cover.

Full advisory at the following link.

https://www.american-club.com/files/files/cir_05_26.pdf