A study by the Seafarers International Research Centre at Cardiff University sounds the alarm after research based on questionnaires and interviews with over 1,200 seafarers
A study by Cardiff University’s Seafarers International Research Centre has revealed alarming trends in the maritime industry, highlighting increasing fatigue and inadequate medical care among seafarers on board cargo ships.
Questionnaires with more than 1,200 seafarers
The research, based on questionnaires and interviews with more than 1,200 seafarers, reveals that more than a third of crew members reported insufficient sleep in the previous 48 hours. Workers attributed sleep deprivation to excessive working hours, irregular work patterns, port shifts, ship movements and noise – problems that have worsened since previous studies conducted in 2016 and 2011.
The gravity of the situation
The gravity of the situation was recently highlighted when a cargo ship, the Ncl Salten, ran aground in Trondheim, Norway, after the officer on watch fell asleep on the bridge. The ship had visited three ports in the 24 hours before the incident.
Related:Nouhed Chine writes : Beyond Seafarers’ Rights
An intractable problem for seafarers
“Despite better monitoring of staff work/rest hours, fatigue remains an intractable problem for seafarers,” said Professor Helen Sampson, director of the research centre. Sampson also revealed that work/rest records are often falsified to hide overwork.
Significant health concerns.
The study also highlights significant health concerns. Nearly 20 percent of cargo ship seafarers who suffered serious injuries or illnesses were unable to access necessary medical care. Most cargo ships operate without trained medical personnel, relying instead on limited telemedical assistance until they arrive in port.
The maritime industry, which employs more than 1.5 million people globally, faces widespread under reporting of these issues, researchers say. Many seafarers concerned about job security due to precarious contracts, are hesitant to report problems.
Related :Inspection Campaign (CIC) on Crew Wages and (MLC, 2006)
Professor Sampson advocates for regulatory reform: “Regulations need to be changed to ensure that all seafarers receive uninterrupted rest, in line with recommended adult sleep levels.” She also highlights the critical need for trained medical personnel on board cargo ships, saying that “access to medical care on board cargo ships is woefully inadequate.”
The research was conducted with funding from Stiftelsen Sveriges Sjömanshus and additional support from Sjöbefälsföreningen.
Sources : Press – Releases + Shipping Italy
