Page 53 - CHIRP Annual Digest 2017

CHIRP Annual Digest 2017

8. Health & Hygiene

This is a short but important section,
and one which is likely to grow as mar-
iners become more aware of the need
for a clean, healthy workplace. Sadly,
our reporters did not enjoy such clean
and healthy conditions.
The first report describes our growing
relationship with the International
Seafarers Welfare and Assistance
Network (ISWAN) and our growing links
to the fishing industry, and explains
why we are focusing on the increasing
number of health-related incidents.
We believe health and hygiene are
legitimate topics for us to cover, and
we look forward to receiving more of
your reports in future.
The next report tells a particularly
harrowing tale of an injured seafarer
who did not receive proper medical
treatment, repatriation or medical
expenses. The case raises questions
about minimum safe manning and
general safety – the patient was even-
tually discharged in rough weather
in a cargo net – and also appears to
demonstrate his employers had no
idea how P&I cover works.
Finally we hear about a member of
the galley staff who suffered a hand
infection caused by fungal bacteria.
Treatment by the ship’s doctor was
completely ineffective and led to
long-term problems. We researched
the topic and some valuable guid-
ance is included.
The Insight article for this section
concerns health, hygiene and well-
being. It contains information about
topics which most mariners rarely
consider, despite the requirements of
the new Maritime Labour Convention,
so we urge you to read it and learn the
lessons it imparts.

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