The primary cause of death among seafarers is not industrial accidents and injuries, but various illnesses.
Sea-news.az reports that this is noted in a new report by the Britannia P&I Club.
According to the club’s analysis of insurance claims involving approximately 3,000 crew members, 81 percent of deaths among seafarers were caused by illnesses, while 19 percent resulted from injuries.
It was determined that 58 percent of deaths from illnesses were related to cardiovascular diseases. Overall, illnesses accounted for 60 percent of all crew-related insurance claims, while injuries made up 36 percent.
The report also draws attention to the rising risks associated with mental health among young seafarers.
It was stated that suicides and incidents of going missing at sea predominantly affect younger crew members. These figures highlight the critical importance of protecting not only the physical but also the psychological well-being of crew members.
Among operational risks, hand and finger injuries were the most frequently recorded type of injury, accounting for 27 percent of injury-related insurance claims.
Furthermore, more than one-third of deaths resulting from injuries were linked to falling overboard.
The report emphasizes that safeguarding seafarers’ health, properly assessing operational risks, implementing safe working methods, and ensuring the continuous use of personal protective equipment are key priorities.
According to experts, ensuring the safety of seafarers should not be limited solely to reducing accident risks; it must also encompass regular medical checkups for crew members and increased attention to their mental health.
