- ISWAN Report Reveals Rising Fatigue and Stress at Sea.
- Technostress Among Seafarers Threatens Industry Retention.
- Call for Seafarer-Centred Transition to Zero-Carbon Shipping.
As the maritime industry speeds towards decarbonisation and embraces rapid technological changes, the weight of these shifts is landing heavily on the shoulders of seafarers. Even though they play a vital role, there’s a surprising lack of awareness in the industry about how these transitions are affecting their well-being and job satisfaction. To shed light on this issue, the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) carried out a global survey in 2023, gathering insights from 400 seafarers and 55 shore-based staff, reports ISWAN.
Key Findings: Increased Workload, Stress, and Technostress
The ISWAN report, published last year with support from The Shipowners’ Club, highlighted that while many seafarers are on board with decarbonisation and eager to help, they are grappling with heavier workloads, fatigue, and stress due to the rapid pace of regulatory and technological changes. Crew members are also increasingly worried about the potential for criminalisation if they inadvertently breach regulations, which only adds to their anxiety while at sea.
A Call for a Seafarer-Focused Zero-Carbon Transition
ISWAN stresses the importance of adopting a seafarer-focused approach to the zero-carbon transition. The report points out that skilled and trained seafarers are crucial for the maritime sector to achieve its environmental objectives. However, if their well-being continues to be overlooked, the industry could face even greater challenges in recruiting and retaining talent.
New Guidance: Supporting Wellbeing During the Transition
ISWAN has introduced new guidance titled Taking a seafarer-centred approach to decarbonisation: Guidance for seafarers and maritime stakeholders, once again backed by The Shipowners’ Club. This guide lays out practical strategies to help seafarers look after their wellbeing and support each other during this transition, while also encouraging maritime organisations to create safer and more supportive environments in light of the rapid technological and regulatory changes.
Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety
To build a culture that prioritises safety, ISWAN suggests that maritime companies focus on practices that place seafarers at the heart of their operations. This means taking a fresh look at crewing models to tackle fatigue and fostering environments where psychological safety is a top concern. It’s essential for seafarers to feel they can voice their worries without the fear of facing consequences, as this is key to maintaining sustainable operations.
A Comprehensive Vision for a Sustainable Maritime Future
ISWAN emphasises the need for a holistic and systemic shift in workplace culture. It points out that achieving the maritime sector’s zero-carbon goals relies not just on technological advancements but also on the industry’s capacity to attract and keep talented seafarers by cultivating supportive and fair working conditions.
Industry Leaders Voice Support
Simon Grainge, ISWAN’s Chief Executive, stated: “As the pace of decarbonisation accelerates, it is essential to ensure that the additional demands that rapid technological change places on seafarers are not overlooked amidst the pressures to meet regulatory requirements. Particularly with the advent of alternative, more hazardous fuels, providing training to upskill seafarers is only one angle of the preparations for zero carbon that the sector needs to prepare for. Taking a proactive approach to building psychological safety will also be fundamental to ensuring a sustainable future for the sector, in both human and environmental terms.
Many seafarers understand only too well the vital need for decarbonisation and are keen to play their part. There is a real opportunity for maritime stakeholders to capitalise on this motivation by partnering with seafarers as crucial drivers of the decarbonisation transition.”
Louise Hall, Director of Loss Prevention, Corporate Responsibility & Marketing at The Shipowners’ Club, added: “The Club is pleased to support ISWAN’s latest guidance, which places seafarers at the heart of the industry’s decarbonisation efforts. As the maritime industry is constantly evolving, it is critical that the welfare of those at sea remains a central focus. Seafarers play a pivotal role in achieving global sustainability goals, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they are equipped, protected, and supported throughout this transition. This guidance is a valuable resource in fostering a safe, resilient, and inclusive working environment during a time of significant industry change.”
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Source: ISWAN
