Citation

Nielsen D. Safety Sci. 1999; 32(2-3): 121-141.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1999, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Seafaring has long been recognised as one of the more dangerous occupations as it presents workplace hazards in a combination unknown in other occupations. Most studies on occupational hazards of seafarers have concentrated on nationally manned fleets operated out of Northern Europe. Recent studies on supply and demand of seafarers have highlighted the fact that international shipping is predominantly relying on internationally manned ships. This study examines the records of the Hong Kong Marine Department and presents an analysis of work-related fatalities in an internationally manned fleet. In a 10-year period, 123 deaths were recorded. The victims came from 13 different countries, with Hong Kong-resident seafarers forming only the fourth largest group. The biggest number of deaths was attributed to maritime disasters, followed by deaths due to illnesses, of which the biggest share was due to heart-related diseases. The third biggest cause of non-natural deaths was occupational accident. A review of the occupational accidents identified that personnel in deck occupations constituted the biggest group.