WMU published the report based on survey findings from Phase Two of the Work & Health Balance at Sea (WHEAB) project and builds on the interview results from Phase One1. Together, these two phases report the findings of the one-year project funded by the Officers’ Union of International Seamen (OUIS) and undertaken by the World Maritime University (WMU). The study focused on several interrelated areas that were explored during Phase One and quantified in Phase Two.
WMU developed an online survey based on the Phase One interview findings.
Building on exploratory interviews, a survey was designed and administered. The current report presents findings on work pattern (onboard and home periods), working hours, work-related stress, safety management system, shore leave, mental well-being, and career intention.
The survey gathered responses from 4,372 seafarers, mainly from India (n=1,098; 25.1%), the Philippines (n=690; 15.8%), the United States (U.S.) (n=501; 11.5%), and other worldwide regions (n=2,083; 47.6%). The overrepresentation of U.S. seafarers, especially at higher ranks, was intentional, as this group was the primary target. Key findings for U.S. seafarers compared to the total sample are summarised below:
The survey covered the following domains below in sequence:
- work pattern (onboard and home periods);
- working hours;
- work-related stress;
- SMS;
- shore leave;
- mental well-being; and
- career intention.