Labelling Onboard Equipment: Why Clear Identification Could Save Lives
- Hannah M
- Mar 31
- 2 min read
Updated: May 16
Emergencies at sea don’t wait. When seconds matter, being able to quickly locate and identify critical safety equipment—like first aid kits, EPIRBs, and fire extinguishers—can make all the difference. Properly labelling your onboard equipment ensures that both your crew and passengers can act swiftly and effectively, even under the pressure of an emergency.
Why Labelling Matters
In the chaos of an emergency, communication gaps can lead to delays. Imagine asking a passenger to retrieve a first aid kit, only for them to freeze, unsure of what it looks like or where it’s stored. These moments of confusion can be avoided with clear, visible labels and signage. Proper labelling ensures:
Quick Identification: Bright, clear labels help everyone locate equipment immediately.
Overcoming Language Barriers: Universal symbols on signs make it easier for passengers who may not read English.
Improved Preparedness: Both crew and passengers can act with confidence, knowing exactly what to do.
Key Equipment to Label
Labelling is essential for the following onboard equipment:
First Aid Kits: Clearly mark their location with universal symbols like a red cross.
EPIRBs: Add instructions like “Emergency Use Only” and a simple explanation of what it does.
Life Jackets and Lifebuoys: Ensure their storage areas are visible and labelled.
Fire Extinguishers: Indicate their type (e.g., electrical or chemical fire).
Emergency Exits: Highlight muster stations and evacuation points with signs and diagrams.
How SeaLogs Can Take Your Labelling to the Next Level
SeaLogs’ Inventory section makes safety management simple and organized. With SeaLogs, you can:
Log Equipment Locations: Create a detailed inventory of safety equipment and note exactly where each item is located onboard.
Standardize Across Your Fleet: Ensure every vessel is equipped with consistent labelling and easy-to-reference logs.
Maintain Up-to-Date Records: Keep track of equipment inspections and updates to labels, ensuring nothing gets overlooked.
This digital record ensures that you and your crew know exactly where to find vital equipment, eliminating guesswork in critical moments.
Educate and Empower Your Passengers
Even the best labelling won’t work if passengers don’t know what to look for. Use pre-departure briefings to point out labelled safety equipment, explain signage, and provide simple instructions. By giving passengers the tools they need to assist in an emergency, you turn them into assets rather than liabilities.
Safety Starts With Preparation
Labelling your equipment is a small but crucial step toward a safer vessel. And with SeaLogs, you can take your safety practices to a whole new level by maintaining a comprehensive digital inventory that keeps you prepared for anything.
Ready to improve safety onboard? SeaLogs makes it simple. Let’s ensure your vessel is equipped to handle emergencies with confidence.
