Applying the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to Evaluate Safety and Hazard-Related Objectives in Bangladesh’s Ship Recycling Industry

Abstract

As Bangladesh’s entry into force of the Hong Kong Convention approaches, the demand for safe and environmentally sustainable ship recycling practices has intensified. Despite Bangladesh and South Asia holding the largest share of the ship recycling industry, Bangladesh has faced criticism for inadequate safety measures, training, and tools, leading to accidents and unsafe working conditions. Thus, to prioritise safety measures and training, key recycling activities that require attention to personnel safety, environmental hazards, and regulatory compliance must be identified. This study aims to determine the most crucial activity, taking into account safety and hazard management in the Bangladesh ship recycling industry, using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) analysis. The objective focuses the industry on high-priority activities requiring immediate attention to ensure safer, more sustainable ship recycling practices. Six criteria are defined based on safety and hazards in the ship recycling industry. The AHP analysis has been conducted considering six ship recycling activity groups (alternatives), amongst which the most crucial one would be identified. This study conducted six expert surveys to create the pairwise comparison matrix (PWCM), gaining insights into evaluating criteria and alternatives. The results of the AHP analysis highlight that Personnel Safety (PS) is the most significant criterion in ship recycling, with Inspection Activities being the most critical activity (30.83%). Operational Risk Complexity, Safety Training, and Regulatory Compliance also play significant roles. Environmental and waste management concerns are comparatively less prioritised due to their long-term rather than immediate risks. According to the results, some recommendations have been suggested to ensure safe and hazard-free ship recycling. Recommendations include emphasising rigorous pre- and post-inspection protocols, providing proper training and safety equipment for workers, increasing regulatory oversight, and implementing effective waste management strategies to ensure compliance with safety standards and prevent incidents.