We know how important it is to look after our mental wellbeing whether that’s at home or in our working day. For maritime staff working in the dry bulk shipping industry, the state of their mental health is a critical watchout. Unique challenges such as long periods at sea, isolation, fatigue, and working in highly stressful conditions can and do take their toll.
It’s because of these issues that this year’s World Mental Health Day is particularly relevant to DBCE. The 2024 theme is ‘It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace’, and although mental health in the maritime industry is being addressed, there is still so much more to be done.
DBCE recognises and supports the importance of workplace wellbeing. A case in point is one main aspect of the DryBMS framework which focuses on Crew Welfare. This ensures the organisation has a programme in place to protect the wellbeing of vessel personnel, with key targets including:
- Company procedures to ensure fatigue is managed aboard its vessels
- Company processes to eliminate harassment and bullying aboard – promoting a respectful workplace
- Company processes & policies to support mental health and wellbeing aboard, as well as procedures, training and awareness, and assistance, treatment and monitoring
With World Mental Health Day dedicating this year’s theme to mental wellbeing in the workplace, we’d just like to say DBCE is committed to ensuring crew welfare and mental health is a priority for seafarers across the Dry Bulk Shipping industry.
