Shipping and

UNIT 2 SHIPPING AND SPECIAL NEEDS Special Needs

Structure
2.1 Introduction
Objectives

2.2 Nature of Job

2.3 Various Demands of the Career
2.3.1 Technical Needs
2.3.2 Practical Demands
2.3.3 Physical Needs
2.3.4 Emotional Needs
2.3.5 Psychological Needs

2.4 Personal Traits for Effective Functioning On board

2.5 Need for Maintaining High Hygienic Standards On board
2.6 Basic Essentials of Personal Hygiene
2.7 Physical Fitness Requirements as per International Standards
2.7.1 List of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases
2.7.2 Some Medical Examination Standards

2.8 Managing Personal Fitness

2.9 Travel Arrangements for Joining Ship
2.9.1 Procedure Prior to Joining Ship
2.9.2 Procedure for Air Travel

2.10 Making and Confirming Accommodation Reservations

2 11 Summary
2.12 Answers to SAQs
2.13 Appendix

2.1 INTRODUCTION
No man will be a sailor who has contrivance enough to get himself into a jail; for being
in a ship is being in a jail, with the chance of being drowned ... a man in a jail has more
room, better food and commonly better company — Samuel Johnson
To the novice, joining the merchant navy seemingly appears to be an opportunity to
embark on a trip around the world and get paid for doing it. One joins it with
expectations of salaries as high as the ship’s mast, and love for the idea of travelling
around the world at company expense.
But after joining this industry and getting a feel of it, do you think this all is the only
reality or the reality is much beyond these persuasions and lures? There are also other
aspects of this job apart from the normal attraction attached.
Good health is a goal toward which many of us strive. After all, we know that, in great
measure, our physical well-being determines the quality of our life. Quality of life
onboard ship depends on following some simple principles of basic hygiene and
balancing life with positive living and eating habits, some active work, play and rest’s
Joining ship for the first time can be a daunting experience since everything is new and
unfamiliar. Being aware of the basic processes involved in joining ship formalities will
help you feel more comfortable and better prepared.
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English and Human Objectives
Factors
After studying this unit, you should be able to
• describe the nature of a job in the merchant navy,
• discuss various needs of the industry, and
• discuss various traits required for being successful.
• explain importance of hygienic living onboard ships,
• list the basic essentials of personal hygiene,
• recognize physical fitness standards for serving onboard a ship, and
• describe simple steps to aintain good health onboard
• discuss and confirm travel arrangements for joining ship,
• make and confirm accommodation reservations, and
• plan a journey.

2.2 NATURE OF JOB

The glamour and charm is very soon replaced by the hardships and rigorous work
schedules. Stark reality stares you in the face and all of a sudden you realize that all is not
hunky dory and what you achieve is directly proportional to your sweat investment.
A seafaring job is for one who does not mind being out in the middle of nowhere for an
extended period, can spend hours on the deck gazing at the North Star, has an easygoing
friendly manner, enjoys hobnobbing with people and is itching for long hours of work –
8 to 14 hours a day, seven days a week. Since there is a premium on space, you have a
small room for a cabin, which you may have to share with others. Of course, when you
are off duty, you can relax and socialize in designated areas on the vessel. You can
disembark and explore ports of call, but only if you have offshore leave and are not
exhausted after your gruelling work schedule.
Of course, we must not forget the benefits of the profession. The unique life style gives
you the opportunity to spend long uninterrupted periods of time with your family where
you have no pressure and can pursue other interests. You earn a handsome salary and
gain status and respect. You learn to be responsible and independent at a young age.
Work has to be done in a professional manner. To be a professional, implies that a person
is good at his job and can be depended upon. Clearly, it is easy to be a professional in the
first sense. If we do anything over and over again in our lives, we become professionals
of some sort. The second implication, however, is more difficult. It is easy to do a job,
but to do it well as if our heart was in it − Ah! There lies the catch. Most of us are content
in ‘making do’, or finishing the task at hand with the least amount of effort. We are not
interested in putting our best effort because we think that the job is too small or too
meaningless or that nobody is going to appreciate it.
How does one become a professional? Did we ever utilize our time and energy in
thinking about what characteristics are required to be successful in this profession? How
to gear ourselves up for the challenge ahead?
SAQ 1
(a) Did you take into account the nature of job on Merchant Ships while
choosing this profession? If yes, then what was your impression then?
(b) What impression do you now have about the nature of job on ships after
reading this section?
(c) To what extent is your pre-joining assessment in tune with your present
impression about nature of job? Are the differences causing concern to you?
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 Shipping and
2.3 VARIOUS DEMANDS OF THE CAREER Special Needs

If we understand the needs of our profession, that is to be mentally, emotionally and

physically strong, we can probably deliver quality output by acclimatizing ourselves to
the demands of the profession.
We can classify the special demands entailed by the job in the marine industry as
follows:
2.3.1 Technical Needs
This job entails learning various aspects of operating and maintaining the vessel and the
cargo it carries. A vast amount of technical knowledge is required to undertake tasks such
as navigation, care of cargo and maintenance of the vessel. As one progresses through the
ranks, technical expertise increases both through experience and further study.
2.3.2 Practical Demands
The practical demands on the officer are many. For example,
Working with your Hands
The ability to work with your hands to carry out practical tasks and operations is
very important for a merchant navy officer. Much of your daily work schedule will
be practically oriented. You also need to ensure that all work is carried out safely.
You will need to follow strict procedures and guidelines for working both safely
and efficiently. It will be important to develop an attitude of pride for any task that
has to be carried out on board, whether it be seemingly small and insignificant, or
large and important. Remembering that work on board is interrelated and your
actions will affect others. This will help you to ensure that you approach all
practical tasks with care and attention.
2.3.3 Physical Needs
Long and Irregular Working Hours
The ship never stops. It may also reach port in the middle of the night. Working
hours could be irregular; one could be sailing for nine months in a year, with a
minimum duty of eight hours a day. Physical stamina will be one of the criteria for
success on board. Remaining physically fit and strong through regular exercise
should form a part of your daily routine. Something as simple as sit ups or push
ups in your cabin will keep you on track.
Confined Working Space
Working areas could also be cramped and initially some people may feel a sense of
limited space. However, with the busy work schedule and with time, individuals
learn to adapt and cope with the different set up.
Good Health and Hygiene
Since there are no doctors on board, it is important to look after your health and
hygiene. Positive personal living habits need be followed at all times. Ensuring
that you eat as healthily as possible, keep yourself fresh and clean and regular
exercise should form part of your daily routine.
2.3.4 Emotional Needs
Dealing with Loneliness
A person may be on a ship for extended periods of time, without family. This
could become lonely and may cause stress. It will be important to learn to find
happiness wherever you are. Setting professional goals for yourself will help you
to focus when you are on board. Writing to family and loved ones whenever you
get the time, keeping a personal diary or journal and bringing along small
momentos of home will all help you to adjust to being away from home for long
periods of time.
Missing Out on Some Special Occasions
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English and Human You may miss out times on when birthdays and anniversaries of loved ones are
Factors celebrated back home. You may miss the special cuisines, uniqueness of various
festivals at your house, when you will be on board. At these times, you will need
to learn to appreciate the benefits of the career rather than concentrate on what you
are missing. Like two sides of a coin, our choices in life have both positive and
negative implications for us.
Absence of Choice of Companions
You will have to spend months with the same crew members on board. You may
be left with limited options to make friends. Relationships on board will be based
more on professional requirements and you will need to learn to get along with all
types of people.
2.3.5 Psychological Needs
Lack of Colleagues at the Same Level
Generally there will be one person at a particular level in the hierarchy followed on
the ship. This will leave you with no colleague of same rank as yours to share your
feelings and emotions. You will have the limitation of being on your own support
system and also you have to make adjustments be ready to deal with people with
different personalities.
Changeable Work Environment
With each new contract the ship changes, and you face a new group of people. The
amount of effort that is required in adjusting with one team has to be made again
with each new contract.
Having Realistic Expectations from Colleagues
In an environment where there are limited resources, everyone has a job pressure
to accomplish his objectives within stipulated time. Under such situations one has
to empathize with others, be patient and have expectations that are objective and
realistic.
Multi-Tasking/Multi-Functional Adaptability
One must know how to swiftly change one’s focus from one job to another. An
aptitude to deal with multiple tasks at a time is a must to gauge all the activities for
ensuring safety. Adapting to changing situations and environments is part of the
nature of your job.
Working without Complaints under a Hierarchal Set Up
A hierarchical regime has to be followed wherein one has to be tolerant and
respectful of structure. A subordinate has to follow instructions and take orders
from seniors. At the same time, it is essential to realise that you are working in a
team environment, and if you feel that you have something to contribute, then it is
your duty to do so.
Developing Multi-Cultural Respect
You may have to live in a multicultural environment working with people from
varying countries and background. At times you could be the only Indian on the
ship. So you have to be open and show acceptance for other’s cultures, values and
systems.
Aptitude to Study
In merchant navy your promotions depend not only on your experience but also on
your ability to clear examinations. Therefore unlike other professions, here one has
to continuously study and clear examinations for progressing and getting
promotions in one’s job. An individual’s ability to study along with job would play
a major role in shaping their career.
Team Work

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 Due to the close working and living conditions of life on board ship, the ability to Shipping and
work well within a team is an important quality. You will have to accept that on a Special Needs
ship all sink or all swim together and hence appreciate the importance of working
for the common good.
SAQ 2
(a) List the special technical needs of the sea-faring profession.
(b) “Life onboard ships is emotionally and psychologically demanding.” Justify
this statement OR “Life at sea not a bed of roses.” Do you agree and why?
(c) What are the practical demands of a naval officer?

2.4 PERSONAL TRAITS FOR EFFECTIVE

FUNCTIONING ON BOARD
A person with a strong mental make-up and tough physical constitution, along with a
sporting, and adaptive attitude will find life at sea adventurous and full of fun. Life at sea
is not a comfortable break from the routine of academics. A newly enlisted merchant
navy officer must involve himself in a rigorous course of learning; he will need to pass
the stipulated examinations to get promotions.
Manual dexterity is very essential as the work involves the servicing and repairing
equipment. You must enjoy solving problems, and be flexible enough to adapt to
advancement in technology and working practices. You need to be aware of the work and
should have good administrative skills.
Attributes of responsibility, adventure, willingness to be away from home for long
periods and compatibility with others is essential. You should be able to handle technical
work independently. Flexibility, dexterity and the attitude to pitch in when needed are
appreciated.
The job calls for genuine interest that can help the entrant adjust with ease and
confidence. The ability to withstand long stretches of hard work in an emergency like
situation on board a vessel physical strain of needs a person with tough mental and
physical self to sustain himself through such stress.

SAQ 3
List the personal traits, classifying them into two categories viz. desirable and
Undesirable, for being a successful seafarer. How do you plan to work upon the
traits listed in the undesirable column?

2.5 NEED FOR MAINTAINING HIGH HYGIENIC

STANDARDS ON BOARD
For long periods of time, seafarers spend months in the restricted area of their ship, with
a small number of fellow crew-members around them. Ships visit different countries and
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English and Human seafarers come in contact with workers from different countries and environments. More
Factors over, most of the seagoing cargo ships have no doctor onboard and some vital medication
may not be readily available. These factors stress the need of maintaining high hygienic
standards onboard.
When on ship, you spend a lot of time in restricted areas of the ship. This means that
simple infections can be spread from one person to another. Thus, preventive measures
and good hygienic standards are essential. As the saying goes ‘Prevention is better than
cure’ Though a medical chest is provided onboard and medical advice by radio is
available, if one falls sick, one may not be able to get the same kind of medical services
as one gets onshore. If a person falls sick, he should be isolated from other crew members
to prevent the spread of disease. He should be kept isolated till he is cured or there is no
threat of outbreak of communicable diseases.
Unsafe management and disposal of ship wastes can easily lead to adverse health
consequences. Exposure can also occur via environmental transfer of disease-causing
organisms or harmful substances due to unsafe management and disposal. Food wastes
and refuse readily attract disease causing organisms and vermin including rodents, flies
and cockroaches. Details concerning the proper retention, selective collection, storage
and disposal of such wastes on board, on shore, and overboard (where shore areas will
not be affected) is described by MARPOL Annexure V. This annexure also includes
measures to prevent the creation of health hazards. Follow these guidelines in totality for
the sake of maintaining good hygienic standards onboard and for protection of
environment. Moreover one should not store food items in one’s cabin and cupboards so
as to prevent the spread of cockroaches, fungus and other organisms.
All food refuse should be received and stored in watertight, non-absorbent and easily
cleaned containers, fitted with tight covers which should be closed during food
preparation, food serving and cleansing operations in food-handling spaces. These
containers should be placed in waste storage spaces, specifically constructed and used for
this purpose, or on open decks when necessary. After each emptying, each container
should be thoroughly scrubbed, washed, and treated with disinfectant, if necessary, to
prevent odours and nuisances and to minimize attraction of rodents and vermin.
Apart from waste, unsafe water is another area of concern while onboard ships. Water on
ships is stored in large tanks. These tanks should be inspected and maintained regularly
to remove any rust. While working in tanks, ensure that no ill person or person having
rashes or cuts enters the water tanks. Water tanks should be thoroughly washed and dried
before putting any fresh water in them after maintenance. If necessary, Chlorine tablets
should be put in the water to prevent any disease causing bacteria germinating in water.
Another area where ship staffs are susceptible to diseases is in contact with shore
workers. When a ship is visiting ports where there is danger of outbreaks like malaria and
yellow fever, etc., there should be minimal contact with the shore staff and vessels are
advised to keep disinfectant solution near the gangway. All persons boarding the ship
should wash their hands before being allowed onboard. Moreover, the vessel should take
advice from reliable authorities to prevent outbreak of these diseases onboard ship.
In many ports, port health inspectors and port state officials board the ship for inspection.
These officials lay a lot of importance on maintaining high hygienic standards onboard.
If they find accommodation dirty and evidence of low hygienic standards onboard, they
can make a remark in their inspection report that can lead to fine and even detention of
the vessel.
In the light of these facts, maintenance of high hygienic standards onboard assumes
greater importance. So for the sake of one’s own health, health of fellow crew members
and to follow the local and international regulations, everyone onboard should maintain
cleanliness and good hygienic standards.
SAQ 4
(a) Why should we maintain high hygienic standards onboard? List four reasons
34 for this.
 (b) What are the consequences of Port Health inspectors making an adverse Shipping and
remark about hygienic conditions onboard? Special Needs

(c) Which Annexure of MARPOL deals with storage and disposal of garbage
onboard?

2.6 BASIC ESSENTIALS OF PERSONAL HYGIENE

It is the seafarer’s responsibility to look after his own health and maintain high standards
of personal cleanliness and hygiene. Hygienic living protects the health of the individual
and of those around him.
Personal cleanliness includes good care of the skin, ears, hair, nails, mouth, teeth, and
genitalia and proper maintenance of clothing, towels, and other personal gear. Personal
cleanliness extends to maintaining areas surrounding you in clean and in a spic and span
condition.
At least a daily bath or shower, and more often particularly in hot weather or after
working in hot compartments, is conducive to good health and prevention of itches,
rashes and other skin ailments. Brisk rubbing with a rough towel after a bath or shower
stimulates circulation and gives a feeling of well-being. Almost all of the ships have good
facility for hot water, so take daily baths even in cold weather.
Maintaining good personal hygiene is important for all persons working onboard
specially so for the catering department. All persons involved with food handling should
keep their hands clean and all vegetables, fruits and meat should be washed properly
before cooking. Any cuts and bruises should be tended to by giving proper first aid so as
not to pass infection on to others.
Clean clothing should be worn at all times. Special precaution should be taken while
working on dirty and oil containing equipment so that oil does not spill or spray on your
clothes or body. Continuous contact of oil with skin can lead to rashes and other skin
ailments. Take off contaminated clothing immediately, wash the affected area and put on
dry and clean clothes. Do not put oily rags in your pockets. Oil contaminated clothes
should be washed separately to avoid contamination of other clothing items.
The importance of washing hands at appropriate times cannot be overemphasized. If you
do not wash your hands frequently, you can pick up germs and then infect yourself when
you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash your hands before eating, after using the
bathroom and after work.
Care of the mouth and teeth by regular use of a toothbrush after meals is an essential
factor in the prevention of gum disease, infection, and tooth decay. Hair should be
shampooed frequently, cut at regular intervals, and preferably kept short.
Most ships have separate washing machines for working clothes like boiler suits etc, and
other relatively clean clothes. Working clothes should be washed separately so as not to
cause inconvenience for others who are using the same laundry facilities.
These simple steps should be followed at all the time as they go a long way in
maintaining a healthy and safe atmosphere onboard.
SAQ 5
(a) List three good practices of personal hygiene.
(b) What can be the consequences of contact of skin with oil/oil soaked clothes?
(c) Why it is important to wash hands regularly?

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English and Human
Factors

2.7 PHYSICAL FITNESS REQUIREMENTS AS PER

INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS
Every seafarer, prior to his registration in the Seamen Employment Office shall appear
before the appointed Medical Authority and obtain a certificate of physical fitness.
These certificates are given in accordance with the guidelines of the latest Merchant
Shipping Regulations.
Seafarers should be free from evidence of any contagious or infectious disease. They
should not be suffering from any disease, which is likely to render them unfit for sea
service. The medical examiner considers with regard to the individual examinee whether
such conditions render him or her unfit for the duties he or she is expected to perform.
The medical examiner considers the health and safety of the examinee but also the health
and safety of other seafarers and passengers, as well as the safety of the ship. The
following medical conditions generally render a person unfit for work at sea. This list
here is given as guidance only and you should refer to the latest regulations for a more
detailed list.
2.7.1 List of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases
• Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS),
• Enteritis,
• Hepatitis, active or chronic, within 6 months,
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD),
• Active Tuberculosis (The examining physician should take into account the
advice of a chest physician, whether the lesion is fully healed and whether
the patient has completed a full course of chemotherapy. Cases where either
one or both lungs have been seriously affected are rarely suitable for
re-employment.),
• Typhoid,
• Active or carrier Malaria,
• Lice,
• Scabies,
• Any other infectious or parasitic disease in its communicable or carrier state
which would present a health hazard to other crew members or passengers
through casual contact.
There should be no evidence of any morbid condition of either eye or of the lid of either
eye, which may be liable to risk of aggravation, or recurrence.
2.7.2 Some Medical Examination Standards
Visual acuity
Deck Department (including Deck and General-Purpose Crew)
Minimum requirements for vision of officers and crew of deck department are as
described below:
Distance Vision (Unaided):

36
 • (Values given in Snellen Decimal Notation)/(6/6) in better eye and Shipping and
Special Needs
minimum 0.67 (Values given in Snellen Decimal Notation)/(6/9) in
other eye
• Normal colour Vision (to be tested by Ishiara test chart).
In addition, Deck Cadets and Deck Officers for certification upto Master are
required to pass sight tests conducted by Mercantile Marine Department.
To be able to identify navigational lights of a ship from a distance, normal colour
vision is essential for navigators onboard.
Engine Department (including Engine-room Crew)
Minimum requirements for vision of officers and crew of engine department are:
Distance Vision (Unaided)
• Minimum 0.5 (Values given in Snellen Decimal Notation)/(6/12) in
each eye; or
• Minimum 0.67 (Values given in Snellen Decimal Notation)/(6/9) in
better eye and minimum 0.33 (Values given in Snellen Decimal
Notation) / (6/18) in other eye.
Hearing
There should be no impaired hearing, discharge from or disease of either ear,
unhealed perforation of the tympanic membrane or signs of acute or chronic
supportive otitis media or evidence of radical or modified radical mastoid
operation, and no congenital malformation of the ear.
Seafarer should be able to hear a whisper at a distance of 5 meters on each side.
No disease should be present. No hearing aid shall be permitted.
These regulations and measures ensure that seafarers of sound physical health are
permitted to serve onboard ships.

SAQ 6
(a) Why it is necessary for deck officers to have a normal colour vision?
(b) Who conducts the sight test for deck officers at the time of their competency
examinations?
(c) What are the distance vision requirements for deck officers?

2.8 MANAGING PERSONAL FITNESS

The nature of a job at sea presents unique demands and challenges. Life at sea can be
tough. The work is strenuous and physically demanding. Moreover, the hierarchy on ship
is such that there is only one person at that particular level. If a person falls sick and is to
be landed ashore, workload on others will increase and ship can also be detained for
falling below minimum manning standards.
In the light of factors mentioned above, seafarers should take steps to manage their own
fitness. ‘Good health for your own sake and also for the ship’s sake’.
Good health depends on an even and thoughtful balance of work, rest and active play, on
sensible regular and balanced meals, on adequate sleep and an avoidance of excessive of
rich food, alcohol and tobacco.
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English and Human High humidity and heat can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke which may be fatal.
Factors When working in these conditions it is advisable to drink at least 4-5 litres of water daily.
It is best to take small quantities at frequent intervals. Extra salt is essential; this can be in
the form of lime juice with salt and sugar or added to food or ORS (Oral Rehydrating
Solutions).
In tropical areas especially, exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day should
be avoided as far as possible. When it is necessary to work in very strong sunlight,
appropriate clothing offering protection to both head and body should be worn, whatever
the degree of acclimatization may be.
Similarly in cold weather, appropriate winter clothing should be worn including long
johns, winter jacket, caps and gloves to protect against frost bite and cold. Ideally, many
layers of clothes are recommended to help to trap heat in between the layers. Low
temperature combined with strong winds on the deck can substantially increase the wind
chill factor, so proper precautions are necessary at all times. Wet clothing should never
be worn as one will catch cold easily in wet clothing.
Special precautions should be taken while working in enclosed spaces or in areas where
there may be dangerous gases around. Continuous inhaling of even less harmful gases
can induce headaches and illness and may weaken the immune system. When working in
a dusty atmosphere or spray painting, appropriate respirators and masks should be worn.
Scurvy used to be a common ailment onboard ships not so long ago, hence all crew
members are well advised to take orange juice, lime juice and vitamin C rich fruits and
vegetables. Positive personal living habits need to be followed at all times. Avoid
overeating, eat at regular timings and avoid excess of alcohol.
Life during long sailing can sometimes be very sedentary. Many ships are equipped with
a gym and other indoor games like table tennis, etc. If these facilities are not there or
workload or work timings prohibit usage of these facilities, a simple walk on deck or on
bridge is a useful exercise to keep one fit. Jogging is a good exercise, but is not
recommended on steel decks, unless the shoes are well padded.
Adequate sleep is necessary for health, well-being and efficiency. Sleep requirements
may vary considerably, and the sleeping habits of crew members may be quite dissimilar.
However, unbroken periods of rest for everyone are desirable. STCW Convention lay a
lot of emphasis on providing adequate and unbroken rest hours for watchkeepers. Section
A-VIII/l of the STCW Code states that watch keeping personnel (i.e., all persons
assigned duty as officers in charge of a watch, or as rating forming part of a watch) shall
be provided a minimum of 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period. The period of rest may
be divided into two periods, one of which must be at least 6 hours. This regimen is
followed on all ships.
Prevention against external factors like cold and heat, etc., exercise, good food habits and
rest are four main pillars of managing personal fitness onboard. By understanding these
basic principles of healthy living and applying them with sense and moderation, everyone
can vastly improve the quality and may well increase the length of their lives.
SAQ 7
(a) What kind of food items you should eat to prevent scurvy?
(b) What should you do to prevent heat stroke onboard?
(c) What may happen to you in an enclosed space?

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 Shipping and
2.9 TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS FOR JOINING SHIP Special Needs

2.9.1 Procedure Prior to Joining Ship

(a) When you have to join a ship, the company will give the following
Documents: Your Contract Letter, Introduction Letter, and Air Tickets.
(b) At the destination airport, you will meet the Company’s Agent. The Agent will
have a fax copy of the introduction letter. He will help you clear all the customs
formalities, shipping office formalities and Immigration formalities (outside the
airport), and then he will escort you to the ship.
2.9.2 Procedure for Air Travel
Since seafarers need to travel by air frequently, you must get familiar with the procedures
and requirements of travelling by air internationally.
If you're planning to travel overseas, the most common form of transportation is by
airplane. Knowing the entire procedure from purchasing plane tickets to coping with in-
flight emergencies can ensure that you have a pleasurable trip.
First of all, choosing an airline carrier might depend on a number of factors including the
company's service record, price of the ticket, length of time to destination, and even in-
flight service. Flight bookings are usually done by your shipping company or agent and
you may receive a hard or e-ticket for travel.
As security measures have been increased at all airports you will now have to arrive
nearly up to three hours before your departure time. It is important to check from the
airline how many hours before the flight departure are you expected to check in.
Once you've purchased your ticket, on your outward flight the first thing you'll do is
check in your baggage. At some airports you need to x-ray your check in baggage before
proceeding to the airline check in counter. At the check in counter you will need to show
your ticket and passport and you will be issued with a boarding card which states your
seat number, boarding gate and time of boarding. Thereafter, you have to pass through
the passport control/immigration check and security checkpoint where your baggage will
be screened for any banned items such as firearms, explosives, knives and any other
sharp objects. and liquids of any kind Once you've gone through passport control into the
departure area you can't come back out.
Once you arrive at your destination you will go through a passport and immigration
control section. As well as checking passports and other documents such as visas,
immigration officers may want to check that you have enough funds, particularly if
you're planning a long stay.
All countries have strict regulations about what you are not allowed to bring in and
penalties from stiff fines to imprisonment for those who try to violate the regulations
At check-in
• Make sure that your bag is correctly tagged with the airport's three-letter
destination code.
If your bags arrive damaged or not at all
• File a written report with the airline before leaving the airport.
SAQ 8
Read the words listed below and consult a dictionary if you need a definition.
Write a paragraph about air travel which includes the listed words:
(a) aisle (b) aisle seat
(c) baggage claim area (d) boarding area
(e) boarding pass (f) carry-on luggage
(g) cockpit (h) emergency exit
(i) flight attendant (j) gate
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English and Human (k) lavatory (l) life jacket
Factors
(m) metal detector (n) overhead compartment
(o) oxygen mask (p) pilot
(q) seat belt (r) security checkpoint
(s) security officer (t) terminal
(u) ticket counter (v) tray table
(w) window seat (x) X-ray machine

Of course, once aboard the plane, flight attendants will serve you food and
beverages and anything else you require. No one ever wants to experience any
emergencies, but the plane is equipped with emergency exits in case you have to
leave the plane. There are also life jackets under the seats, and oxygen masks in
case the plane's cabin unexpectedly loses pressure. Be sure to read the safety
instruction card located in the pocket of the seat in front of you. After the plane
lands, you can pick up your luggage from the baggage claim area usually a
conveyor belt where usually your Flight no. may also be displayed.
You need to follow some social etiquette while travelling in the air plane. Take a
look at some of the basic rules of social etiquette that you need to take care of:
(a) Show your boarding pass to the flight attendant and reconfirm your
seat.
(b) Place your cabin baggage at the designated space and if that is full ask
the flight attendant for assistance.
(c) Your limbs should be within your seating area.
(d) Be courteous with the flight attendants and co-passengers.
(e) Do not indulge in drinking alcohol during the flight as you will be
joining the ship immediately on arrival.
(f) While getting down from the aircraft do not rush to the exit and do
not push any of your co-passengers.
(g) Since most flights are non-smoking, refrain from smoking in the
flight.

Airplane travel can be exciting, the knowledge of what to expect before you go can make
this experience even better.
Sample of Letter given to the Officer joining the Vessel
ABC Limited (Logo of the company)
XYZ address
REF: ABC/MUM/0050/2005 DATE: 03.03.2005

TO WHOMSOEVER IT MAY CONCERN

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 MT XYZ @ NOLA, U.S.A ON 03.03.2005 Shipping and
Special Needs

This is to certify that DEF has been appointed on behalf of our principals, MJs. Bright
Ship 12,24397, LINSBURG, GERMANY to join their captioned vessel at the said port
of call. His details are as follows:

PPNO : E1234529 D.O.I. : 19.12.2003 / P.O.I : NEW DELHI

CDC NO : CL 5678 / D.O.I. : DD/MM/YY/ P.O.I : CALCUTTA
The listed person is a bonafide seaman and is travelling by following flight schedule to
join above mentioned ship in the capacity of CHIEF OFFICER:

SECTOR FLIGHT NO DEPARTURE ARRIVAL

DEL/BOM 9W-352 1345 03.03.2005 1540 03.03.2005
BOM/MCT GF-465 1930 03.03.2005 2040 03.03.2005
MCT/FRA GF-017 0020 04.03.2005 0640 04.03.2005
FRA/IAD UA-933 1700 04.03.2005 1955 04.03.2005
IAD/MSY UA-499 2145 04.03.2005 2331 04.03.2005

Our principal's agents will receive, assist and transfer the above person to join the
captioned vessel. His name and full address are given below:
Mr. JKH
2457 N CAUSEWAY, SUITE 153-159
METAIRIE, LA 70002
U.S.A
TEL: 001- 504 - 83378468
FAX: 001 - 504 - 83378469
TLX: 40075634
EMAIL: jkh@,jkh.com
MOB: 001 - 507 - 918505
We, ABC Limited, hereby hold ourselves responsible for deportation in the unlikely
event of such contingency arising for any reason.
For ABC limited

(AS AGENTS)
SAQ 9
Now, complete the sentences below with the best answer:
(a) The ___________ will be serving food and beverages after the plane reaches
its cruising altitude.
(i) flight attendants (ii) pilots (iii) security officers
(b) After the plane lands, you can pick up your luggage at the ______________.
(i) boarding area (ii) baggage claim area (iii) overhead compartment
(c) If the cabin loses pressure during flight, you should put on your
_____________ so you can breathe comfortably.
(i) seat belt (ii) life jacket (iii) oxygen mask
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English and Human Prior to joining a vessel, here is a sample of the information you would be
Factors expected to understand and comply with.

2.10 MAKING AND CONFIRMING

ACCOMMODATION RESERVATIONS
The check-in and check-out time in hotels is usually 12 noon. You, as a traveler, should
always book hotel reservations as far in advance as possible to ensure room availability.
Be precise about the name and location of the hotel you are requesting.
Once you have arrived at the hotel, provide your confirmation number to the hotel agent
at the front desk. Because of high no-show rates, most hotels overbook their rooms. If
you become a victim of an overbooking, know your rights! The hotel is expected to find
you another hotel of similar quality, provide you transportation and pay for any rate
differences.
If you need to cancel a confirmed/guaranteed reservation, you must do so by 4:00 p.m.
(cancellation time may vary by city or hotel chain) local time, on the day of arrival to
avoid a no-show fee. Some major hotel chains charge penalties for early check-out. For
example, if you confirm three nights but decide to stay only for two, you may be
penalized. Be sure to ask at check-in if there is a possibility that you may check out
earlier than reserved.
Decide what particular kind of room you want, and request it in advance. For example,
looking for a quiet, sunny spot with a garden view? Or perhaps a room with a balcony
overlooking the ocean? Do you want a non-smoking room and a king-sized bed?
Do you need a room with business facilities such as a fax machine, internet facility and
data ports?
It is also a good idea to ask for a written confirmation of your room selection and rate.
Never place your purse, laptop or other valuable items on hotel baggage carts. They can
be stolen while you're standing at the check-in counter. Don't flash cash, especially when
you visit the hotel's cashier. This is a favorite observation post for pickpockets. Do not
display a "clean the room" sign on the outside of your door as this indicates to potential
thieves that you are not in the room. When you leave your hotel room at night, turn on a
light and keep the television on a low volume to give the impression that you are in your
room.

2.11 SUMMARY
In this unit you have learnt about some procedures for joining a ship, traveling by
air keeping in mind certain social etiquettes and some tips for your stay /
accommodation reservation.
Now-a-days with limited manpower resources onboard the ship, a job in the merchant
navy is no more lucrative and glamorous. A person has to prepare in advance for the
tough life at sea.
In this unit, the demands that the job entails are described. The special needs for which a
candidate has to acclimatize himself are technical, practical, physical, emotional and
psychological.

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Personal traits that are most important for this job are flexibility, dexterity, positive Shipping and
attitude. Initiative, responsibility, punctuality, dedication are few of the desirable Special Needs
attributes.
In this unit, we introduced you to the fact that life at sea is full of contradictions at times.
Working hours can be long and a ship travels across various time zones. It is possible to
go from severe summer to acute winter in one voyage as the ship sails across the
Northern and Southern hemispheres. You may also be doing continuous night shifts
depending on your rank onboard.
We explained that all these conditions require you to be in top physical health at all
times. Positive and clean living habits are very essential for maintaining a healthy and
trouble free tenure onboard ship. Ensure that you maintain yourself fresh and clean, keep
your surroundings clean and follow the environmental regulations at all times. We also
showed in this unit that these simple steps are the key to maintaining quality of life
onboard ships.

2.12 ANSWERS TO SAQs

SAQ 1
Attempt the answers yourself.
SAQ 2
(a) Technical needs not given in detail in the passage.
(b) Life on ship makes a person lonely.
- Living away from family may cause depression stresses.
- Miss out on special occasion.
- Homely atmosphere is missing
- No close friends to shore emotions feelings
- Frequent change in the ships contract brings new people to adjust &
adapt. New work environment & nature of work also requires
adjustment.
- Job pressure
- Need to follow instructions without complaining etc.
All these factors make the job very demanding.
Practical demands of naval officer.
(c) (i) Work with hands.
(ii) Long irregular working house.
(iii) Work in limited working space.
(iv) Need to maintain good and clean Sanitation and Hygiene.
SAQ 3
Attempt yourself
SAQ 4
(a) The sea fare spends many months on ship which has limited space
therefore it is very essential to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in
the living and working space. Secondly living in Limited Space can
spread simple infections more easily and rapidly the ship visits
different countries and thirdly its initiate come in contact with various
people and environment therefore to prevent ourself from infections
we need to follow the basic hygiene standards.
Another important reason to follow hygiene and sanitation is that
there is no doctor on board a cargo ship so one needs to take
care and precaution to remain healthy and fit.
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English and Human (b) Adverse remark by the Port Health Inspectors may lead to fine and
Factors detention of the vessel.
(c) MARPOL Annexure V
SAQ 5
(a)
(b) Attempt yourself
(c)
SAQ 6
(a) Deck officers need to have a normal colour vision so that they are
able to identify navigational lights of a ship from a distance.
(b) Eye test are conducted by Mercantile Marine Department
(c) Distance vision should be unaided
SAQ 7
(a) Diet should be rich in vitamin c such as orange juice, lime vegetables
(b) Drink 4-5 litres of water at regular intervals
Extra salt is essential
Take lime juice with salt and sugar at intervals
(c) Working in closed area lead to continuous inhalation of harmful
gases. This can cause headaches giddiness and may weaken the
immune system.
SAQ 8
Attempt yourself
SAQ 9
Attempt yourself

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