Henrik Jensen urges maritime leaders to prioritize crew welfare as stress levels rise, emphasizing proactive measures for better living conditions.
Henrik Jensen, CEO of Danica Crewing Specialists, emphasizes the need for immediate action to improve life at sea.
In his comments on New Year’s goals for enhancing living conditions in the maritime sector, Jensen highlighted the unsustainable cycle of calm periods followed by crises that has plagued the industry for years.
He noted that during smooth operational phases, support for crew members is often neglected, leading to urgent solutions for preventable issues when they arise. “As we approach 2026, the cost of inaction is becoming heavier every day,” Jensen stated, advocating for a proactive approach over a reactive one.
While many shipowners demonstrate responsible management through safe ships, clear procedures, and supportive working environments, Jensen pointed out that crew members still face significant pressures that demand their full attention.
Referencing the Danica Seafarer Survey, Jensen revealed concerning statistics: 44% of crew members reported experiencing stress, 37% did not receive their legal rest periods, and 16% reported mental breakdowns. He emphasized that the proportion of those experiencing mental health issues has risen from 11% just two years ago, highlighting the importance of preserving basic welfare for individuals unable to seek medical help.
Jensen stressed the critical role of responsible crew management companies, such as Danica, which support both crew members and shipowners through leadership training, welfare monitoring systems, structured career plans, and forward planning. These initiatives not only protect personnel but also enhance ship performance, safety, and crew commitment.
He asserted that proactive support involves anticipating personnel needs, balancing workloads, and integrating welfare into daily operations. “Action should be taken before problems reach a crisis point. When crew members feel valued, they become qualified professionals with increased performance, safety awareness, and loyalty,” Jensen stated.
Drawing from Danica's experiences, he noted that companies that consistently invest in human resources achieve stronger ship performance, fewer safety incidents, and a stable talent pool. With the labor market tightening, companies adopting this approach gain a clear competitive advantage.
In conclusion, Jensen posed a critical question for the sector: “Will we act before problems escalate, or will we, as usual, wait until it’s too late? Responsible shipowners and effective crew managers are already leading the way. It is now time for the entire sector to put people at the center.”
Source: www.denizhaber.com
