The purpose of this book is to introduce the fundamental aspects of ship operations that can provide a safe working environment for all on board, from the regulations and guidance that governs and controls safety, to the basic onboard measures that can be used to mitigate risk.

These will include the shipboard safety organisation, inductions and familiarisations for new crew, safe means of access to and on board ship, general housekeeping, risk assessments, permit to work systems and specific hazardous activities such as dry-docking, lifeboat launch and recovery, entry into enclosed spaces and mooring operations.