Occupational hazards in the maritime industry: how to minimize risk

Darrin Tucker Date published: Mar 20, 25

Maritime workers face some of the most challenging and hazardous working environments in the world. Whether you're on a cargo ship, fishing vessel or oil tanker, workplace risks come with the territory. From unpredictable weather to heavy machinery at sea, every job carries its own dangers.

This blog explores the common occupational hazards faced by maritime professionals, discusses safety protocols every crew should follow, and highlights technologies designed to minimize risk.

Common workplace hazards in the maritime industry

Physical injuries from heavy machinery

Maritime environments are dense with heavy machinery—winches, cranes and conveyor belts, to name a few. While crucial for operations, these machines can cause devastating injuries when handled incorrectly or when safety measures are overlooked.

• Hazards: Crushing injuries, amputations and slips caused by oily surfaces near machines.

• Statistics: According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), machinery-related incidents account for over 25% of workplace injuries reported at sea.

Slips, trips and falls

The movement of a vessel at sea is unpredictable and slippery decks or poorly maintained walkways only increase the risk of accidents. Falls on a vessel can result in anything from minor bruises to serious head injuries.

• Contributing factors: Wet surfaces, improper footwear or a lack of handrails.

• Prevention measures: Consistent maintenance and the mandatory use of non-slip footwear have been shown to reduce accidents significantly.

Fatigue-induced errors

Seafarers often work long hours and endure tight schedules, leaving little time for rest. Fatigue is widely considered one of the leading causes of human errors at sea.

• Impact: Fatigue can slow reaction times, impair decision-making, and increase the likelihood of accidents.

• Finding a balance: Adhering to mandatory rest hours laid out in international regulations like the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) can help mitigate this hazard.

Onboard fire risks

Fires pose a significant threat on ships, given the presence of flammable materials and confined spaces. Engine room fires or electrical short circuits are particularly hazardous.

• Key risks: Improper maintenance of machinery, storage of flammable materials, and lack of fire safety drills.

• Solutions: Fire-prevention measures such as proper equipment maintenance and regular fire drills should be part of every ship's standard practice.

Health risks from hazardous substances

Certain maritime roles, such as those on oil tankers or chemical carriers, expose workers to toxic substances. These materials can lead to life-threatening conditions, such as respiratory issues or chemical burns, without proper protective equipment.

• Key exposure points: Handling new cargo or cleaning tanks.

• Preventative measures: Issuing personal protective equipment (PPE) to all crew members and educating them about proper handling protocols is critical in reducing risk.

Man overboard incidents

Falling overboard is a critical emergency with the potential for drowning, hypothermia or injury caused by ship propellers. According to the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch, man overboard incidents account for a significant percentage of maritime fatalities annually.

• Cause: Poor safety practices like leaning too close to edges without harnesses or life vests.

• Immediate safety response: Swift crew action, combined with training exercises, can save lives in these incidents.
  
  

Essential safety protocols every maritime employer should follow

While each vessel may have its unique safety challenges, some fundamental protocols apply to the maritime industry as a whole. Here’s a closer look at how safety can—and should—be enforced.

Enforce regular training and emergency drills

Training remains one of the most effective safety measures for any crew. Regularly updated training ensures the crew is well-prepared for challenges like onboard fires, equipment malfunctions or medical emergencies. Periodic emergency drills—such as man overboard simulations—foster muscle memory and swift action during real emergencies.

Implement proper machinery maintenance

Routine checks and timely repairs of heavy machinery are essential to ensure they don’t fail unexpectedly, causing accidents. Maintenance logs should be mandatory and regularly audited to prevent oversight.

Display clear safety signage

Keep safety guidance visible throughout the vessel. From hazard zones around machinery to life jacket donning instructions, signage reduces confusion and increases awareness, especially for newer crew members.

Adopt work-rest balance protocols

Even the most efficient workers are at risk when fatigued. International maritime laws, like the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC), require seafarers to get minimum hours of rest. Companies need to operationalize work schedules that balance productivity with crew wellbeing.

How technology is minimizing risks at sea

Predictive analytics for risk management

Modern technology enables predictive analysis, which uses data to identify potential safety risks before they escalate into major incidents. For example, software can monitor the wear and tear on machine parts and alert crews when maintenance is required.

Wearable safety tech

Smart wearables, like wristbands or helmets equipped with sensors, can monitor fatigue levels in real-time and alert workers to take breaks. Some devices even use GPS technology to track crew members' proximity to hazardous areas aboard vessels.

Drones for inspections

Traditionally, inspecting ship cargo holds or external hulls required crew members to physically access these spaces, often under hazardous conditions. Today, drones are being deployed for these inspections, reducing risk to human workers.

Safety management software

Comprehensive safety management systems (SMS) are key tools for modern maritime businesses. These platforms allow for tracking maintenance schedules, crew safety documentation and even the scheduling of compliance training.

At Ideagen, we provide intuitive software that helps maritime teams mitigate risks and ensure safety practices are consistently upheld.

Safeguard your crew and elevate safety standards

The maritime industry comes with its unique set of challenges, but by understanding the common hazards and adopting robust safety protocols and technology, these risks can be substantially reduced.

Your crew is your company’s most valuable asset. Don't take safety lightly—invest in the right solutions to keep them protected.

Visit our website to learn how our safety management software can simplify compliance and reduce risks for your maritime operation today.

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