The International Group of P&I Clubs (IGP&I) has put together a video showcasing the purpose and objectives of the Personal Injury Committee.
In this informative video by IGP&I, Karen Williams, Chair of the International Group’s Personal Injury Committee, and Birgitta Hed, former Chair of the Personal Injury Committee, highlight the work of the Committee, particularly how the Group works together and collaborates with other organisations within the shipping community to protect life, health, and safety at sea.
What is the Personal Injury Committee?
The Personal Injury Committee is a pivotal component within the framework of the International Group (IG), an association of 13 Protection and Indemnity (P&I) clubs that provide liability insurance to shipowners. This committee focuses specifically on addressing personal injury claims within the maritime industry.
The committee serves as a platform for IG member clubs to convene and discuss various aspects related to personal injury claims, spanning injuries sustained by seafarers, passengers, and individuals on shore. Its primary objectives include facilitating discussions, sharing insights and best practices, and collaborating with relevant stakeholders to address challenges and improve standards of safety and care within the maritime sector.
The interview sheds light on the committee’s response to international crises such as COVID-19 and geopolitical events such as the war in Ukraine, which complicated repatriation efforts and efforts to provide support onboard. Despite these challenges, the committee swiftly navigated contractual obstacles to ensure the welfare of seafarers.
Beyond addressing physical injuries, the committee also places a high priority on mental health, recognizing the unique challenges faced by seafarers who spend extended periods at sea.
Moreover, the committee has been actively providing data to the IMO to demonstrate the scale of maritime injury claims and improve port security measures. Additionally, the committee is involved in a pilot project aimed at automating data collection, which will enhance information sharing in the future.
Looking ahead, the committee remains focused on ongoing issues. Moreover, a new working group has been established to address personal injury claims comprehensively, reflecting their proactive approach to emerging challenges.