Governance & safety solutions in maritime industry: The case of “Costa Concordia cruise liner”

Human resources management (HRM) has increased its functionality and popularity in the transportation industry as a dynamic and complex environment. Specifically, the maritime industry presents special challenges in managing human resources. Despite the requirements of International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers [STCW] and despite all best efforts, accidents do still occur by damaging environment, loss of lives and property. Since the human-based errors and risks are the dominant factor in shipping accidents [Baker & McCafferty, 2005; Er & Celik, 2005; Rehman, A.U. & Timraz, H., 2018], people become a strategic key in the transportation industry. As a consequence, the relevant issues of human resources management such as planning, training of personnel, competences, crew performance monitoring and payment of wages can be recognized as critical levers. Under these conditions, the paper aims to analyze and understand the implementation of HRM within the cruise ship. Specifically, which coordination mechanisms are used in a critical event. This paper uses a case study regarding “Costa Concordia cruise liner”.