NorthLink’s seafaring staff are benefiting from training that will help ensure passengers on the firm’s ferries enjoy alcohol on board in a responsible manner and in a safe environment.

Crew members from NorthLink’s three passenger ships – Hjaltland, Hrossey and Hamnavoe – have completed the Servewise training course, which educates employees about licensing laws, the effects of alcohol on customers and staff’s responsibilities when serving alcohol. The company’s aim is to set the highest standards possible for all those involved in the sale of alcohol on board NorthLink vessels.

Several crew members who fulfil customer facing roles, such as bar staff, hotel directors, stewards, and pursers have already attended the course, which was delivered on board each of the vessels by Anne Hill of Orkney College. NorthLink will continue to roll out the training to other members of staff in the coming weeks.

Brendan Cole, hotel director on MV Hjaltland, said: “All those who attended the course believe it has heightened awareness of our responsibilities when serving alcohol. I think it has given us all increased confidence in dealing with the kind of issues that can arise when people have been drinking.

“The course gives some great tips about how to anticipate behavioural changes in individuals who have consumed alcohol and recognise the less obvious danger signs linked to excessive consumption. It goes into some detail on the unit system for measuring consumption and how the body absorbs and disperses alcohol.

“Servewise is a great training course and would benefit even those who don’t work with alcohol as nearly everyone encounters alcohol related issues at some time in their life, even non-drinkers. It is hugely reassuring for me to know that my colleagues have received training that helps them anticipate situations before they arise and use their newly acquired skills and knowledge in a preventative manner. Northlink Ferries has always adopted a responsible and proactive approach to alcohol consumption on its vessels and I think the implementation of Servewise training is another very positive move on this front.”

Gareth Crichton, NorthLink’s commercial director, added: “We don’t want to be reactionary or overstate the issue but alcohol-related incidents do occur on our ferries from time to time, as they do up and down the country. We are determined that, for the safety and comfort of our customers and staff, our crew are provided with knowledge and skills that enable them to deal with any incidents that may arise effectively and professionally.

“We have made it clear that passengers should not expect to board our vessels if they are unfit to do so through drink. Airlines have operated such a policy for some time now and we believe it is just as important for us as a ferry company. We expect passengers to behave responsibly on board our vessels and this extends to the consumption of alcohol both before and during travel. It is not about us preaching to people, but about ensuring a safe and secure passage for customers and staff alike.”