Synergy Group, one of the world’s leading ship managers, is rolling out new tailor-made Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to its growing number of female seafarers across 60 Synergy-managed vessels worldwide.
Synergy, which employs over 20,000 seafarers, commissioned Hercules Safety to manufacture the new gear to the highest specifications.
Captain HS Swaminathan, COO Crew Management of Synergy Group said that ensuring female seafarers have comfortable PPE designed to the highest safety and functional standards is a critical part of making them feel safe at work.
The PPE was designed by textile engineers in conjunction with female seafarers and maritime safety experts to ensure the final cut maximized comfort and versatility for crew deployed in a maritime work environment where the highest standards of protection are required.
The material consists of 100% soft and durable cotton, with seams reinforced in high stress areas to ensure both safety and comfort over extended periods of time. The PPE is also highly visible with 3M reflective strips designed to maximize visibility in all maritime working environments.
Many seafarer products are designed with only men in mind, rendering them ill-fitting for women, according to Third Officer Noopur Mohire.
Captain Radhika Menon, winner of the 2016 IMO award for exceptional bravery at sea and a mentor to Synergy’s young female seafarers, said: “These new PPE designs represent a clear commitment to supporting the role of women in shipping and illustrate why Synergy is making so much progress in its efforts to attract more women to our marvelous industry.”
