Onboard Violence, Bullying, Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault PSSR Supplementary Module

In line with STCW Code Section A-VI/1-4, as amended & IMO Resolution MSC.560(108) requirements on preventing and responding to violence, harassment, bullying and sexual harassment at sea.

This online course is designed to help you recognise, prevent and respond to abusive behaviour at sea. As you work through real shipboard scenarios, you will see exactly what bullying and harassment look like in practice, what is acceptable and what is not, and how you can step in or report concerns safely. By completing this one-day, fully online programme, you will be contributing to a safer, more respectful workplace on board and aligning your own skills with the latest international requirements on violence, bullying and harassment.

Course summary

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Define bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual assault in a shipboard context, using clear, practical examples.
• Recognise early warning signs and patterns of abusive behaviour on board, including subtle or “low level” behaviours that can escalate.
• Explain how bullying and harassment affect individual wellbeing, team performance and shipboard safety.
• Apply simple, safe strategies to challenge or stop inappropriate behaviour as a target, bystander or supervisor.
• Follow the correct onboard and company reporting channels for concerns, incidents and complaints.
• Respond in a trauma informed way when someone discloses bullying or harassment, including what to do – and what not to do.
• Contribute to a respectful, inclusive shipboard culture that aligns with your company policies, the ISM Code and the updated STCW PSSR requirements.