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In the complex and highly regulated environment of maritime operations, technical competence and regulatory compliance are fundamental. However, after nearly four decades of professional engagement in shipping , one recurring theme continues to stand out: the underutilisation of common sense as a decision-making tool at all levels of the industry.

While often perceived as a given, common sense is not a trivial concept. In operational terms, it represents the ability to interpret information critically, apply judgment in real time, and respond to unforeseen circumstances using practical reasoning — especially when predefined procedures fall short.

Modern maritime operations rely heavily on manuals, safety management systems (SMS), and procedural protocols. These frameworks are essential, particularly in maintaining compliance with ISM, SOLAS, MARPOL and other conventions. Yet, strict adherence without interpretation can lead to counterproductive or even unsafe outcomes.

For instance, junior officers or cadets or even seniors in the  office may mechanically follow procedures without fully grasping the rationale behind them. Similarly, even experienced personnel can fall into the trap of procedural inertia, applying protocols without adapting them to the operational context. This disconnect between textbook knowledge and situational awareness often stems from a lack of critical thinking — the very space where common sense ought to operate.

Common sense in maritime operations is not about bypassing regulations or improvising dangerously. It’s about integrating training, experience, and context-specific evaluation to support decision-making. Whether on the bridge, in the engine room, or within the shipowner's office, real-time operational decisions frequently require balancing formal knowledge with real-world insight.

As vessels become more technologically advanced and crews more multinational and fragmented, the demand for officers and office managers who can exercise sound judgment — beyond what’s written in a manual — grows exponentially. Safety culture, environmental responsibility, and operational efficiency depend not only on what we know, but on how we apply that knowledge under pressure.

Unlike technical proficiency, common sense cannot be taught in a classroom, but it can be nurtured. Mentorship, onboard leadership, and an organizational culture that encourages reflection and questioning are key to its development. Companies that empower crews to think, rather than merely execute, build resilience across all operational levels.

My personal advice, often shared with junior officers and office  teams:

 In an industry where a single decision can impact lives, cargo, or the environment, common sense should not be considered an afterthought. It is an indispensable tool — a quiet force behind good seamanship and sustainable maritime leadership.