Emergencies on large passenger ships in the remote High North may lead to a mass rescue operation with a heavy strain on the emergency preparedness systems of the Arctic countries. This study focuses on the need for competencies related to large-scale Search and Rescue operations (SAR operations) amongst the shipping companies, vessels and governments involved. A SAR operation is the activity related to finding and rescuing people in distress. Several international standards, in particular the conventions by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), provide direction for education and training of seafarers and rescue staff. This study elaborates on the operational competence requirements for key personnel involved in large scale SAR operations. Findings from real SAR incidents and exercises provide in-depth understanding on the operational challenges. The chapter gives directions for competence programs, beyond obligatory international standards, and recommendations for further research.

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Performing tasks under task complexity (TC), for example, during the management of a crisis, can be challenging. One relevant research stream has so far dealt with modelling task complexity while another research stream has established the importance of situation awareness (SA) during crisis management. This study takes into consideration these two research streams and builds a model on how SA is achieved under task complexity. The research shows that information of high information quality (IQ) reduces the level of task complexity, and influences—as well as is influenced by—situation awareness. The practice of collecting and disseminating relevant and timely information as a critical resource in improving SA should be carried out continuously. This continuous process can be improved by using information technologies as automating tools. Moreover, the study shows how shared mental models can improve SA under task complexity. A case study approach, based on qualitative data focusing on theory building, is applied. Unit of analysis is a Norwegian hospital.