First living notation

ClassNK has granted its first "ELW (HP)" (Excellent Living and Working Environment (Hydroponics)) notation to Royal Laurel, a bulk carrier owned by Tokei Kaiun. The ELW (HP) is the result of a scheme that ClassNK has established to indicate on a class certificate that a ship is equipped with measures and facilities that contribute to the improvement of the onboard environment in its "Guidelines for Excellent Living and Working Environment". It is expected that efforts to improve working conditions that exceed the regulations set by the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) will not only create attractive workplace environments but also help reduce crew fatigue and contribute to safe operations at sea.