According to the Norwegian Maritime Authority, a new survey by Safetec presented during Maritime Week in Haugesund (1-5 September) shows that growing efficiency demands are putting seafarer safety at risk.
Of the 30,000 surveyed, more than 3,300 responded, including 1,000 through phone interviews. The results reveal that efficiency pressures often clash with safe operations: 26% of seafarers admit they sometimes break safety procedures due to company demands, while 38% say they are assigned tasks that require them to be in two places at once. Many report feeling pressured to continue working even when safety is compromised.
The problem lies not in the absence of safety rules, but in how they are valued. Fourteen percent feel that following procedures isn’t recognized, while 20% believe companies only care about results, regardless of how they are achieved.
Time pressures also affect vital safety measures: 23% say they lack time for training, and 32% report maintenance and inspections are deprioritized. This creates a culture where safety is seen as secondary to productivity.
The survey also highlights how work environment affects safety. Although bullying at sea has declined somewhat, ships where it persists often show weaker safety cultures, strengthening the link between well-being and risk management.
Safetec stressed that the findings provide a “diagnosis” of safety culture at sea. Reaching the industry’s zero-vision goal of no fatalities or serious injuries will require shipping companies to lead by example, prioritize safety over efficiency, and listen to seafarers’ feedback.
