Maritime industry urged to prioritize practical safety over procedures

Recent maritime safety findings highlight a significant disconnect between seafarers' perceptions of risk and actual injury data. Research from OneCare Group indicates that 60% of seafarers believe risk levels remain consistent throughout a contract, whereas data from Gard shows injuries are most likely to occur during the first three months of a contract, specifically between 8 am and 10 am during routine tasks.

Additionally, the ship management association InterManager reported 354 enclosed space accidents between 1996 and 2026. A survey of over 900 seafarers suggests that safety is often undermined by overly complex procedures, commercial pressures, insufficient manpower, and inadequate practical training.

Experts and industry leaders are calling for a shift away from paperwork-heavy compliance toward practical safety measures. Recommendations include more frequent drills, improved gas detection equipment, wearable monitors, and involving crews more directly in the development of safety procedures to ensure they are realistic for onboard conditions.