Overcoming Language Barriers

Safety4Sea https://safety4sea.com has published an excellent article on issues with language barriers at sea. The article can be found here.

Language barriers are a common challenge in the shipping environment with multinational, multilingual and multicultural crew. What native speakers often don’t realize is that their own way of speaking the language ‘correctly’ can be as big a barrier as the listener’s limited comprehension of the language, thus creating a barrier to effective communication.  The article highlights some clear principles for overcoming language barriers.

• Speak slowly and clearly, don’t rush through your communication; 
• If in doubt – ASK: Ask for clarification. If you are not 100% sure you’ve understood what others say, politely ask for them to make it clearer. Don’t assume you’ve understood what’s been said;
• Frequently check for understanding. Use two-way communication and reflective listening – repeat back what you have heard;
• Be specific. Spell out your expectations and deadlines clearly; 
• Be patient. Cross-cultural communication takes more time. 

The full article can be found here: https://safety4sea.com/overcoming-language-barriers/

Members may wish to refer to:

• Rope under tension parted on deck [language barrier: the workboat crew did not speak much English];
• Pipelay technician sustained cut to wrist whilst handling testing equipment [The injured person did not have clear communication or eye contact with the other technician who released the scanner belt. It was also found that language barriers between the technicians contributed to poor communication;]
• Fall from height during yard visit [the injured worker spoke neither English nor Norwegian. Translation was conducted by co-workers. This yard routinely employs foreign workers with limited or no skill in English, although laying down rules for sub-contractors on how such workers were to be deployed;]