This repository contains the outcome of the literature searches and result of a survey used to identify
the mental health problems as well as finding out the impact of
bullying and harassment on seafarers and how it can be eradicated. The repository is created to help in to understand the key issues which make seafarers better equipped
to counter mental health problems and at the same time be aware of the
means to face and handle the bullies more effectively. The focus of the
repository is on protect and support touching of importance of good
leadership and a healthy and supportive work culture.
Topic outline
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Authors: Professor Martin Ziarati, Professor Dr Reza Ziarati
Abstract: Cadets on sea service and young seafarers often do not manage stress as well as the more experienced seafarers. They face experiences that they have not encountered before and being away from home often for the first time can itself cause stress. The stress management workshop consists of 2 parts: first deals with discussions on the causes of stress, ways to manage stress, challenging negative thinking and developing positive thinking and how to develop assertive skills; second deals with some exercises to develop concentration, eliminating negative thought process, breathing exercises to develop calmness of mind and how to develop memory.
Authors: Prof. Dr Reza Ziarati, PhD Mariusz Dramski, Captain Heikki Koivisto, Tomaž Gregorič, Prof. Germán de Melo Rodríguez, Aris Chronopoulos
Abstract: Mental health is a state of wellbeing in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community. This paper reports on the outcome of an investigation carried by C4FF and its European partners into the mental health problems of seafarers focusing on identification of the problems which create or lead to mental health issues with a view to finding feasible solutions hence making life on board more pleasant.
Authors: International Chamber of Shipping and International Transport of Workers’ Federation
Abstract: All seafarers have the right to work without suffering harassment and bullying. Unfortunately, there are seafarers that are victims of harassment and bullying on board ships. The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) consider harassment and bullying to be unacceptable and have together produced the following guidance for shipping companies, seafarers and seafarers’ organisations and other parties, including training providers, on what they can do to eliminate harassment and bullying. If any seafarer complains of having been the victim of harassment and/or bullying, complaints must be taken seriously and investigated.
Author: International Maritime Organization
Abstract: The International Maritime Organization has developed these Guidelines to assist all stakeholders in better understanding their roles and responsibilities in mitigating and managing the risk of fatigue. The Guidelines provide information on the causes and consequences of fatigue, and the risks it poses to the safety and health of seafarers, operational safety, security and protection of the marine environment. It has been prepared to assist all stakeholders in contributing to the mitigation and management of fatigue.
Authors: European Community Shipowners' Associations, European Transport Workers’ Federation, Odile Quintin
Abstract: These guidelines aim to assist companies in recognising examples of harassment and/or bullying, identifying incidents through the use of effective grievance procedures and eliminating harassment and bullying in a way that shows clearly the benefits to all parties concerned of a harassment and bullying-free workplace. They are of relevance to shipboard and shore-based workplaces. In doing so the company should involve its workforce and/or trade unions. Where appropriate and taking account of national legal systems, company policies on harassment and bullying should be incorporated into collective bargaining agreements.
Authors: Johanna Beswick, Joanne Gore, David Palferman
Abstract: Bullying seems to have a number of negative individual consequences in the form of stress and poor mental health. The report discusses definitions of bullying at work, and highlights a number of tools that have been used to investigate bullying at work. It also examines other areas of literature including studies on counterproductive behaviours, the psychological contract and organisational justice which may contribute to understanding of bullying at work. The report summarises an exercise undertaken to identify the commonly described unacceptable behaviours, and concludes that many of these behaviours are similar to those poor management practices highlighted in HSE’s Management Standards.
Author: International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network
Abstract: Mental health is crucial to how well staff are engaged, motivated and able to perform effectively in their role. Staff with good mental health are likely to be more productive, perform better and have fewer accidents. It is in the interests of the employer to implement policies and practices which promote good mental health and mitigate the effects of work-related stressors wherever possible. This guide sets out to provide useful information for shipping and ship management companies on how best to devise and implement mental health policies and practices to promote and protect positive mental health shoreside and on board.
Author: International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network
Abstract: The International Seafarers` Welfare and Assistance Network is launching “MENTAL CARE” as one of the topics in the Seafarers` Health Information Programme. Although psychological problems are very common among seafarers, the mental health of seafarers has only comparatively recently started to receive the attention it deserves. Many of the remedies for minor problems are in the hands of those who create the conditions under which seafarers work and live. Colleagues and friends are often able to form an impression of a person`s mental state much more easily than a doctor. Seafarers can therefore help each other in that way.
Author: SHIP Seafarers` Health Information Programme
Abstract:
There are several factors that can impact seafarers’ mental health; such as job stress, family pressures, limited shore leave and more. Being away at sea can also make it difficult to access support. However, help is out there! This self-help guide details some skills, exercises and coping strategies to help you deal with your emotions when life becomes stressful or your mood is low. ISWAN is an international charity which is dedicated to the relief of hardship or distress amongst seafarers of all nationalities, races, colour and creeds irrespective of gender.
Author: safety4sea.com
Abstract: Every 40 seconds, someone in the world loses their life to suicide, a figure which could justify a global interest in a greater awareness on mental health issues. In the shipping world, mental health issues relate to the nature of seafarers’ job which is characterized not only by intensive work hours, but also by isolation, being away from family for too long, fatigue, and many others. On the occasion of the World Mental Health Day 2019, the WHO sheds a focus on suicide prevention, an issue which seems to be gaining more attention in the maritime world.Author: UK P&I CLUB
Abstract: Mental health affects crew of all ages, nationalities and ranks. A recent analysis of crew mental health revealed anxiety, social isolation, pressure of work and disturbed sleep can affect crew, all of which can negatively influence their mental health. Recognising mental health issues is the first step in accessing the support needed to recover. Mental health can affect anyone and can feel just as bad, or worse, as physical illness – only you cannot see it. Many of the remedies for minor problems are often in the hands of those who create the working conditions under which seafarers work and live.
Author: Australian Government - Australian Maritime Safety Authority
Abstract: Good mental health is important for both personal wellbeing and work performance. However, the mental health among seafarers has become an area of increased concern. Reports of mental health issues at sea have become commonplace, and data indicates that seafaring is an occupation with increased risk of suicide.
Social isolation, long working hours, commercial and regulatory pressures are some factors that may contribute to seafarers’ poor mental health. In this issue we discuss possible risk factors and findings from some of the most current studies on seafarers’ mental health — including suggestions on how to support good mental health at sea.Author: Helen Sampson and Neil Ellis, Seafarers International Research Centre, School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University
Abstract: This research has sought to provide fresh insight into the issue of seafarers’ mental health. It is adopted a different approach to the issue and sought to clarify whether mental health among seafarers is considered to be a significant problem by key stakeholders; what factors seafarers identify as supporting or undermining mental health and wellbeing on board; and what policies and practices could be implemented by ship operators in order to provide better support for seafarers’ mental health and wellbeing. The research combined the use of questionnaires, interviewer-administered questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and an analysis of data provided by insurance companies.
Author: Ship Operations Cooperative Program
Abstract: This Best Practices Guide has been created to address instances of Sexual Assault, Sexual Harassment and other prohibited behaviours in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Specific issues addressed, in addition to Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment, include retaliation, bystander intervention, bullying, hazing, coercion, stalking and other prohibited behaviours. The goal is a workplace culture that fosters collaboration, mutual respect, responsibility and accountability for the success of our industry. These principles apply whether the workplace is a vessel, marine terminal, office or any other environment.
Authors: The American Club, American Steamship Owners Mutualprotection & Indemnity Association, Inc.
Abstract: Mental wellness, while often overlooked, is an important aspect of the health and wellbeing of the crew aboard a ship. Accidents or incidents resulting from a seafarer’s mental breakdown will have significant consequences for the company and ship’s crew. In the seagoing community an understanding and engagement in matters of mental health is vital. In this guidance, we will review some of the common risk factors of a developing mental health condition and recommend measures to prevent or treat an occurrence onboard. Recognizing the developing symptoms, or early warning signs, can and will make a difference.
Authors: Laura Carballo Pineiro, Momoko Kitada
Abstract: Sailing has been considered a male profession. This perception is still common in many parts of the world, and accurate numbers of women seafarers are difficult to obtain. This paper analyses the existing mechanisms to combat sexual harassment from a socio-legal perspective and argues that a tailor-made approach to this damaging problem is necessary. The reluctance of maritime professionals to report any issues on board is aggravated in the case of sexual harassment, thereby a zero-tolerance policy has to be strongly asserted in order to realize a work environment free from discrimination.
Authors: Sophia Bullard, Saidul Alom, Stuart Last
Abstract: Seafaring is considered a tough occupation due to the nature of the profession and the rough conditions that prevail at sea. Seafarers are often perceived as ‘tough people’, but a previous Sailors’ Society report in 2016 revealed that out of a study of more than 1,000 seafarers, 25% reported they have experienced depressive symptoms, while 45% did not ask for help. The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) recognised the negative effect that bullying and harassment can have on seafarer health and wellbeing, and have voted to bring these issues under Regulation 4.3 – the health and safety protection and accident protection code.
Authors: Serdar Kum, Alaaddin Yildiray Ertas
Abstract: The term “mobbing” means “bullying of an individual by a group”. It usually happens among employees. The main effects of mobbing are the generation of stress and reduction of employee performance at work. Research shows that mobbing is particularly common in the public sector. In this study, a questionnaire survey on ship, shipyard, public and private company workers was applied to understand how often employees are exposed to mobbing. After analysing the results, it is also aimed to obtain information about the reasons and causes of mobbing, and then we can get some advice for this issue.
Author: Mark Dickinson
Abstract: This Protect and Respect pack is a service for members of Nautilus International. Its main aims are as follows: to let members know about the work Nautilus has been doing to tackle bullying and harassment in the maritime workplace; to help members understand what constitutes bullying and harassment, and identify whether they are being bullied or harassed; to advise members on what they can do about bullying and harassment and explain how Nautilus can help. In developing its own procedures, Nautilus has drawn on successful practices and advice documents developed by other organisations such as trade unions and government bodies.
Authors: Dr. Sergiu Serban, Dr. Cătălin Popa, Dr. Carmen Luminita Cojocaru
Abstract: The major obstacles faced by the women seafarers during adjustment or performing stages of their professional insertion onboard the maritime ships are the sexual harassment, discrimination, prejudice but also mobbing. The last one is the most often met factor getting its importance due to the last decade determinations and researches carried out onboard the maritime ships. The authors, as team members of the MENTORESS project, implemented under Erasmus+ KA2 have developed this study in their aim of describing this strong felt phenomenon onboard the ships, seeking to reveal the role of the organization and of its management structures on this issue.
Author: Petros N.
Abstract: In the multicultural and fast changing world of shipping, people of the same or different nationality, mentality and mindset who most probably have never met in the past, are required to establish in a short period of time a common communication channel, work together, cooperate on a daily basis, live on board, give orders and follow instructions. In such working environments, offensive or hurtful behaviours amongst colleagues may arise whenever arguments take place or people surpass the set limits or simply because these types of behaviour will make them feel ‘dominant’ against others. These behaviours, are called Bullying, Harassment & Intimidation.
Author: Morten Birkeland Nielsen
Abstract: It is hypothesized that the investigated leadership styles have direct and indirect associations through group cohesion and safety perceptions, with indicators of bullying among subordinates. The variables for examination were assessed in a randomly selected sample comprising 594 seafarers from two Norwegian shipping companies. Laissez-faire leadership was associated with an increased risk of exposure to bullying behavior, self-labeled victimization from bullying, and perpetrated bullying. Analyses of indirect effects showed that the association between transformational leadership and bullying was fully mediated through safety perceptions, whereas a partial indirect association through safety perceptions was found for authentic leadership.
Authors: Victoria`s hub for health services & business; Victoria State Government
Abstract: Some acts of bullying and harassment are easy to identify, but others may be more difficult to recognise and address. Sometimes a person can be unaware that their behaviour is a form of bullying or harassment, and they can also be unaware of the damage they are doing to their colleagues and the workplace. Information and awareness campaigns about bullying and harassment can be a good way to help a person recognise and take responsibility for their actions, and a good way to help the person being bullied or harassed to know what they can do.
Author: Maritime Zone blog
Abstract: According to Nautilus International statistics 50% of seafarers have experienced some form of bullying, harassment or discrimination at sea. Obvious factors such as long hours of hard work, stress, living in unwelcome proximity with other people poison a working atmosphere. It entails exhausting squabbles over working matters or worse bullying, harassment and other forms of an inappropriate behaviour. Below we will look closely at the problem of onboard conflicts and ways how seafarers can cope with unpleasant people they get stuck during a trip. A few steps to protect yourself against bullying and harassment are presented.
- Author: Penelope Robotis; IMEQ; Head of Psychology Dept
Abstract: Seafaring has long been considered a tough occupation due to the masculine nature of the profession and the rough conditions that prevail at sea. Seafarers are often perceived as tough “people” in the field, but contrary to this biased perception recent findings of a study of more than 1000 seafarers report that 25 percent of the seafarers have experienced depressive symptoms over a two week period while 45 percent did not ask for help (sailors society ).Seafarers are not invincible to adversities; they are just as vulnerable to psychological distress as the general population. Authors: Prof. Martin Ziarati, Professor Dr. Reza Ziarati
Abstract: Project Horizon is a major multi-partner European research study with the aim of delivering empirical data to provide a better understanding of the way in which watchkeeping patterns can affect ships’ watchkeepers. The project was established to: define and undertake scientific methods for measurement of fatigue in various realistic seagoing scenarios using bridge, engine room and cargo simulators; capture empirical data on the cognitive performance of watchkeepers working within those realistic scenarios; assess the impact of fatigue on decision-making performance, and determine arrangements for minimising risks to ships and their cargoes, seafarers, passengers and the marine environment.