Seafarers operate ships and maintain them to international standards, as dictated by different classification societies. While so doing, they develop their confidence and sharpen their abilities. They are competent personnel and know how to operate and maintain ship. Seamen carryout drills of various kinds to be prepared for all emergencies such as fire, flooding, collision, man overboard, loss of electric power, rescue etc. They learn obedience and discipline and progress while discharging their duties. They clear examinations by acquiring technical skills and get appointed as Master and Chief engineers. Seafarers perform a good job in ensuring environmental protection.
It is a tough task to work in a ship. Seafarers perform one of the toughest jobs in the world by running ships in the riskiest areas. They often travel to new place and are prone to several specific diseases and illnesses due to the nature of their work. Often they become victims of accidents and have to undergo various problems like fatigue, depression and loneliness. Seafarers have to remain disconnected from their families for a long period of time. Often they miss anniversaries, birthdays, wedding and other occasions of their beloved ones. Many of them have to work without benefits like pensions and insurance. People working in office environment have better working conditions as compared to seafarers who have to face unhealthy conditions.
They must protect their eyes while performing hazardous tasks like chipping, welding and painting. While working in ships they also have to handle various sharp objects which may cause injury. Therefore they must wear gloves and adequate footwear. They must wear helmets to prevent head injuries while performing maintenance work. Seafarers must be extremely cautious while handling electrical equipments and seek assistance of competent personnel. Adequate care must be taken while handling sharp objects in ships. They should refrain from lifting heavy equipments without help from co-workers. Seamen must look after their health by eating healthy food and do exercises at gyms. They must avoid consuming too much sugar and salt. If needed assistance of port health officer may be sought.
On board training of seamen is very important and shore training is often not enough. In this matter, equipment manufacturers can play a useful role while ship is anchored in port for some duration. Wives of seafarers also fulfill big responsibility in managing the home and looking after health and education of children. Maritime unions across the world protect the interests of seamen and help them during distress. My best wishes to all those personnel presently performing on board duties.