It is a fundamental right for and of everyone not to experience any form of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation at work, including at sea. Harassment and bullying on board ships can have severe consequences for the physical and mental health of seafarers, which can lead to decreased motivation, increased sickness and can compromise effective teamwork and the overall wellbeing of all crew members. Moreover, a poor mental working environment will have negative effects on companies, resulting in a deterioration of working conditions on board ships and potential organisational, economic and legal consequences.
A workplace on board is a seafarer’s home during the time they are away from loves ones, family and friends. For that reason, being a ‘buddy’ on board for each other is crucial given the shipboard living and working environment, isolation, size and proximity of cabins and the necessity to remain at the workplace during rest periods.
In SEA HEALTH & WELFARE, we believe in ‘Buddies’ and not ‘Bullies’ at work. That is why we have started the initiative ‘Be a buddy, not a bully’ to raise awareness of the challenges faced by the industry. ‘Be-a-buddy not a bully’ shares the message of looking after each other and being there for each other at workplaces. And that sexual harassment and bullying are not tolerated.
The aim of ‘Be a buddy, not a bully’ is to raise awareness and assist seafarers together with their colleagues and company to eliminate any types of harassment and bullying and improve the working environment on board ships. The guidance offers information and tools on how to define harassment and bullying, how to prevent it and what to do if it happens.
The guidance is released 1st of September, 2019.
It is important to receive support and guidance in cases where harassment and bullying have taken place. Therefore, we will on the 1st of September 2019 launch a new helpline where seafarers can call or write for confidential support.
Shipowners can seek consultancy and guidance on harassment and bullying by contacting SEA HEALTH & WELFARE.
