Shipping companies can take several measures to Facilitate Muslim Seafarers on Ships During Ramadan while also keeping in view ships operations, workload, policies, and ship safety.
Ensure compliance with safety regulations, Shipping companies must ensure that all religious accommodations and adjustments are made in compliance with safety regulations. Any adjustments made should not compromise the safety of the vessel or crew members.
Muslims all across the world mark Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, as a time for prayer, fasting (sawm), introspection, and community. One of the holiest months for Muslims, it is distinguished by a period of fasting, which is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam
Muslims consume suhoor or sehri, an early morning meal before dawn. They abstain from all food and drink, including water, until the evening meal, termed iftar, at which they break their fast.
Only individuals in good health should practise fasting.
Certain Muslims are exempt:
• People who are sick or sickly and whose health would be adversely affected by fasting;
• Youngsters who have not yet reached puberty – although some begin practising fasting before this age;
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women;
• Menstruating women;
• Travelers;
• Those who are elderly or infirm not able to fast for prolonged period.
General guidelines that can help the master of the ship ensure that Muslim seafarers feel comfortable and respected while on board during the Month of Ramadan
Meals:
Provide pre-dawn and post-dusk meals for Muslim seafarers who are fasting. Fasting during Ramadan involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset. Providing pre-dawn and post-dusk meals (Sehri and iftar) SEHRI (food before dawn) and for IFTAR (food after sunset) can help Muslim seafarers maintain their energy levels and health while fasting to Facilitate Muslim Seafarers on Ships During Ramadan.
Rest Hours:
Allow Muslim seafarers to rest during the day and avoid assigning physically demanding tasks during fasting hours. Fasting can be physically and mentally taxing, and Muslim seafarers may need additional rest and time to recharge during the day.
Space to Break the Fast:
Provide a designated space for Muslim seafarers to break their fast together: Breaking the fast is traditionally done with family and friends, and providing a designated space for Muslim seafarers to come together and break their fast can help foster a sense of community and support.
Prayer & Meal Timings:
Be mindful of the schedule for prayer and meal times during Ramadan. Muslim seafarers will need to pray at specific times throughout the day, and their meal times will also be determined by the timing of the daily fast.
Fatigue & Weakness:
Provide extra support to Muslim seafarers who may be experiencing fatigue or weakness due to fasting. Fasting can be challenging, especially for those who are not used to it. Providing extra support and encouragement to Muslim seafarers during Ramadan can help them stay healthy and focused.
Inclusive environment:
Encourage a respectful and inclusive environment that honors Muslim practices during Ramadan. The master of the ship should foster an environment that is welcoming and respectful of Muslim seafarers and their religious practices during Ramadan.
Scheduling events or activities:
Avoid scheduling events or activities that conflict with Muslim practices during Ramadan: The master of the ship should be mindful of the scheduling of events or activities that may conflict with Muslim practices during Ramadan.
Medical Attention:
Be prepared to provide medical attention or accommodations if needed for Muslim seafarers who are fasting.Muslim seafarers who are fasting may need additional medical attention or accommodations to ensure their health and safety.
Taraweeh Prayers:
Allow Muslim seafarers to have time to perform taraweeh prayers at night: Taraweeh prayers are performed after the daily fast and are an important part of Ramadan. Allowing Muslim seafarers time to perform these prayers can help them feel supported and respected.
Religious Resources:
Ensure that Muslim seafarers have access to religious resources, such as a Quran and prayer mats: Providing access to religious resources can help Muslim seafarers feel more connected to their faith during Ramadan.
Work Breaks:
Allow Muslim seafarers to take breaks for personal reflection and prayer during Ramadan. Muslim seafarers may need additional time for personal reflection and prayer during Ramadan. Allowing them to take breaks as needed can help support their religious practices.
Iftar Arrangements:
Consider scheduling a special iftar celebration to honor the end of the daily fast.A special iftar celebration can help foster a sense of community and support for Muslim seafarers during Ramadan.
Respect Religious Practices:
Encourage all crew members to learn about and respect Muslim practices during Ramadan. Fostering an environment of cultural exchange and understanding can help all crew members learn more about and respect Muslim practices during Ramadan.
Work Schedules:
Be understanding and flexible with scheduling and work assignments during Ramadan The master of the ship should be understanding and flexible with scheduling and work assignments during Ramadan, taking into account the needs and practices of Muslim seafarers.
Not to Compromise Safety:
Ensure that religious accommodations do not compromise safety. While accommodating religious practices, it is important to ensure that these accommodations do not compromise the safety of the vessel or crew members. For example, designated prayer areas should not obstruct emergency exits or safety equipment.
Provide training and education:
It is important to provide training and education to all crew members about the religious practices and needs of Muslim seafarers during Ramadan. This can promote cultural exchange and understanding while also ensuring safety policies are maintained.
HEALTH PRECAUTIONS
Whether or not it is safe for Muslim seafarers to observe fasting during the Month of Ramadan while on board a ship depends on a number of factors, including the individual’s health status, the nature of their work on the ship, and the policies and accommodations provided by the shipping company and ship master.
Fasting during Ramadan involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset, which can result in dehydration and low blood sugar levels, especially in hot and humid conditions. For this reason, Muslim seafarers should consult with their healthcare provider and obtain medical clearance before deciding to fast during Ramadan while on board a ship and master need to consider this to Facilitate Muslim Seafarers on Ships During Ramadan.
By following these policies and guidelines, shipping companies and ship masters can ensure that Muslim seafarers are able to observe the Month of Ramadan while also maintaining safety and the well-being of all crew members on board.