In today’s episode Gareth and Abhijith delve into the complexities of maritime safety, focusing on the audit process and its implications. They discuss the dichotomy between first and second stories in safety management, emphasising how audits often fail to capture the true dynamics of operations at sea.

The conversation highlights the challenges faced by auditors, the influence of regulations on safety practices, and the need for a shift towards a more nuanced understanding of safety that goes beyond mere compliance. Abhijith shares insights from his experiences in ship management and safety, advocating for a more holistic approach to auditing that considers the realities of the maritime environment.

In this conversation, Abhijith Balakrishnan discusses the challenges and limitations of auditing practices in the maritime industry, emphasising the need for a shift in focus from compliance to understanding the context in which seafarers operate. He highlights the judgmental nature of audits, the lack of innovation due to strict adherence to procedures, and the role of auditors in system improvement. The discussion also touches on the importance of building trust and fostering open communication within organisations, as well as recommending resources for further learning.

Links and downloads

"Crimes of Obedience: Well-meaning auditors in dysfunctional systems" - Abhi's thesis.
The Design Of Everyday Things by Don Norman
“Humble Inquiry” by Edgar Schein
“Turn The Ship Around!: A True Story of Turning Followers Into Leaders” by David Marquet

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