Seafarers
An estimated 90% of world trade makes use of maritime or river transport, depending on seafarers to operate ships. (Note 1) Many seafarers ply waters distant from their home ports and call at many ports of different countries. Seafarers and shipowners are often of different nationalities, and ships often operate under a flag different from their origin or ownership. Only standards observed by all seafaring nations can guarantee adequate protection for such workers detached from national boundaries. Seafarers are also frequently exposed to difficult working conditions. The ship is both their home and workplace for prolonged periods of time; working and living conditions are therefore of primary importance. Moreover, seafarers are exposed to many unique occupational risks. They face exposure to extreme weather conditions and the possibility of wrecking and sinking. Ships pose many physical hazards, from moving cargo and equipment to toxic materials and chemicals. Working far from home, seafarers are vulnerable to social exploitation and abuse, non-payment of wages, non-compliance with contracts, and exposure to poor diet and poor living conditions. Some seafarers have been abandoned without wages in foreign ports.
Further information
Note 1 - Shipping facts website: http://www.marisec.org/shippingfacts/index.htm (consulted October 2004).
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