A new and comprehensive study published by the World Maritime University (WMU) has revealed that the harsh working conditions faced by seafarers pose a serious risk to the industry. According to the research, excessive workloads, chronic stress, and poor mental health are leading many seafarers to consider leaving the profession. This situation is ringing alarm bells for both maritime safety and future crew supply.

Study Conducted with 4,372 Seafarers from 99 Countries

The report, titled 'Seeking Balance in Maritime Life in an Adverse Environment,' commissioned by the International Seafarers Union (OUIS), is based on the responses of 4,372 seafarers from 99 different nationalities. The study is considered one of the most comprehensive maritime workforce analyses in recent years.

Long Working Hours and Limited Shore Leave

According to the report, seafarers are working an average of 71 hours per week globally. For American seafarers, this figure can rise to 79 hours. Widespread violations of work and rest hour regulations, extremely limited shore leave, and heavy paperwork burdens are among the prominent issues across the industry.

Approximately one-third of participants reported experiencing 'severe and potentially dangerous' levels of stress, while nearly half of American seafarers stated that their mental health was poor.

'Prioritizing Mental Health is Essential'

WMU President Maximo Mejia emphasized that the findings of the report highlight how issues such as work-life balance, income security, and fatigue directly affect the well-being of seafarers. Mejia stated that prioritizing the mental health of seafarers and ensuring healthy working conditions is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the maritime workforce.

Tendency to Leave the Profession is Growing

One of the most striking results of the research was the data regarding job retention. Nearly half of the seafarers surveyed indicated that they were considering leaving the maritime profession within the next five years. Among American seafarers, the proportion planning to remain at sea was measured at only 40.2%. More than 65% of those considering leaving reported having poor mental health.

Distrust in Safety Systems

The study also revealed significant dissatisfaction with safety management systems. Seventy-nine percent of American participants found safety guidelines excessively lengthy, while 71% stated that the procedures did not reflect the actual working conditions on board. Two-thirds of the participants indicated that paperwork was excessively time-consuming.

'A Major Change is Necessary'

OUIS General Director Nick Bramley stated that the findings clearly show that seafarers are struggling to establish a healthy and socially sustainable work-life balance. Bramley warned that the industry needs a fundamental transformation to retain experienced seafarers and attract the new generation.

Call for Urgent Action

WMU is calling on regulators, ship owners, and managers to reduce administrative burdens, implement realistic staffing plans, and enforce rest periods. The university emphasizes that if the science of human factors is not integrated into regulations, the industry could face a serious personnel and safety crisis.

Steven Jones, founder of the Seafarers Happiness Index, describes the crisis in the industry as 'a system surrounded by 21st-century technology but operating under 19th-century expectations.' According to Jones, unless issues related to workload, shore leave, and cultural problems are addressed, achieving a lasting improvement in the happiness of seafarers seems unlikely.

Source: SeaNews Türkiye