To mark IMO Day of the Seafarer on 25 June, Lloyd’s Register and Lloyd’s Register Foundation have published a report titled ‘Shining a light on seafarer wellbeing’.
It identifies the link between wellbeing and safety and stresses the need for structural support for seafarers, better assessment of mental wellbeing, and a closer look at which interventions have been most welcomed by seafarers.
Lloyd’s Register’s Chief Marketing Officer Philippa Charlton said: “Seafarers cannot be expected to operate vessels safely without an environment that fosters good psychological wellbeing and mental health. We’re seeing some good examples of progress within the industry towards a more supportive and human-centric working environment for seafarers – but there is still a long way to go.”
Several anonymous comments from seafarers around the world are included in the report, which calls for more research and development to better assess and protect seafarers’ wellbeing, including the use of innovative technology as a supportive tool.
Additionally, maritime employers should recognize the importance of maintaining the practical changes first introduced during COVID-19 to make long-term, structural improvements to seafarer wellbeing.
Senior Programme Officer at Lloyd’s Register Foundation Olivia Swift added: “Onboard working conditions for seafarers can be optimised to be more supportive of wellbeing through changes to vessel design, contracts and scheduling. Employers in maritime can utilise a myriad of initiatives and guidance that have been set up to improve seafarer wellbeing and signpost commitment to staff and the wider industry.
“Measures to address wellbeing introduced during COVID-19, such as greater connectivity and ability to communicate regularly with loved ones, should be adopted long-term.”
