#Japan #Safety Culture #Mitsui O.S.K. Lines #Ibaraki #Memorial Ceremony

MOL Holds Memorial Ceremony to Honor Victims

On October 9, 2023, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) organized a solemn memorial ceremony at the scenic Kashimanada Beach in Ibaraki Prefecture, attended by 177 employees and executives from the company. This event serves to commemorate the tragic marine accident that occurred on October 6, 2006, when the bulk carrier 'GIANT STEP' operated by MOL ran aground and sank in the Kashimanada area, leading to the loss of ten crew members who remain either deceased or missing.

The primary goal of this memorial is to preserve the memory and lessons learned from this severe maritime disaster, ensuring that such an event is not forgotten. Through this dedication, MOL aims to instill a strong safety culture by learning from past incidents and promoting proactive measures to avert future occurrences. The ceremony involved attendees reflecting on the past and reiterating their commitment to safety and responsibility in maritime operations.

The ceremony was not only a tribute to the lost crew members but also an integral part of MOL's broader efforts in fostering a safety-conscious environment. This initiative aligns with the company's 'Safety Action 1.0' plan which emphasizes reforming safety awareness through mutual enlightenment among the employees. Additionally, it falls under the umbrella of the 'BLUE ACTION for ALL Campaign,' which advocates for corporate social responsibility across the MOL group.

Executives delivered speeches highlighting the importance of remembering those who were lost and the continual commitment to safety in maritime operations. Group activities like these are essential not only for honoring the past but also for educative purposes that aim to strengthen safety protocols and practices within the shipping industry.

Participants, gathered for a group photo, further illustrated the solidarity among MOL's employees and their resolve to uphold the values ingrained in the company's safety vision. The company recognizes that ensuring the safety of vessels and crew remains their top priority, thus activities like this memorial serve to renew their vows and reinforce an understanding of safety practices that must be upheld by all.

Moreover, MOL plans to conduct periodic safety drills, workshops, and training sessions as part of their ongoing commitment to a safer working environment. These steps reflect their proactive approach in mitigating risks at sea and serve as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with maritime operations.

The remembrance ceremony acted as a heartfelt occasion for MOL employees to stand together, honoring their peers while reaffirming their dedication to preserving safe maritime practices. MOL encourages everyone in the industry to learn from the past and collaborate towards a future where maritime accidents become a relic of history rather than recurring events. Moving forward, the company will continue fostering a culture that prioritizes safety, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice and ensuring their legacy guides current and future operations.

In conclusion, MOL's commitment to safety and remembrance ensures that the lessons learned from the tragic incident of the 'GIANT STEP' continue to resonate throughout the organization and the maritime community as a whole. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ocean's unpredictability and the critical need for vigilant safety measures in all maritime activities.