Fit to serve

摘要

The health of seafarers is always a concern for the maritime industry, with one industry expert telling SAS that up to 40% of seafarers could be unfit (see SAS December), even though they have passed their medical checks.Given the worldwide nature of the industry, such a figure would be very difficult to substantiate. But even if it is only taken as an indicator, it is a significant and concerning trend.Most would agree that seafaring is not a job that is naturally conducive to good health. The restrictive conditions at sea do not facilitate physical activity and the hours are long and often solitary. Technology does not necessarily help, as many functions are now accomplished at the press of a button, just adding to a sedentary working life.