By
Rebecca Gibson |
Christine Duffy, president and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), has outlined a number of proactive measures that CLIA’s members have taken to improve safety, self-regulation and training.
Speaking at the US Senate Commerce Committee in connection with the panel’s hearing on the cruise line industry in Washington, Duffy focused on the success of the ten industry-wide safety policies, developed following the results of the 2012 Global Cruise Industry Operational Safety Review.
Duffy highlighted the launch of the ongoing industry-wide Preparedness Risk Assessment Initiative, which aims to ensure operators are prepared for the loss of mains power in the event of an onboard emergency. She also reinforced the importance of the Cruise Industry Passenger Bill of Rights, which was adopted in May 2013 to emphasise CLIA members’ commitment to the safety, comfort and care of passengers.
CLIA also organised a three-day training and joint contingency planning exercise with the US Coast Guard and the Government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas in April. As part of the exercise, it tested the industry’s emergency response and evacuation procedures for cruise ships, medical treatment operations and land-based passenger care facilities.
“Today’s hearing provided an opportunity to have a dialogue on important issues and the industry appreciated the chance to detail the proactive initiatives that we have undertaken to enhance safety and shipboard operations in many critical areas,” said Duffy. “As a result of the cruise industry’s relentless focus on passenger safety, comfort and care, cruising is one of the safest, most affordable, and enjoyable vacation experiences available today.”