MCA works to ensure wellbeing of seafarers

The Seafarer Health and Safety department at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) works to ensure the wellbeing of those who work at sea.

Head of Seafarer Safety and Health Julie Carlton has worked for the MCA for 25 years and has been in this post for 11 years.

She said: “The team is responsible for legislation, guidance and providing advice to improve the heath, safety, wellbeing and working conditions of those who work at sea.

“We’re concerned with human elements of shipping such as medical fitness of seafarers, medical care onboard vessels, working hours regulations, payment of wages, provisions available on board ships and safety at work regulations.”

The legislation applies to UK flagged ships wherever they are in the world and ships which enter UK waters.

The team also works with the maritime industry to make changes in behavior to improve safety and wellbeing without regulation through improving understanding.

Julie said: “What I love most about being in this role is actually making a difference to seafarers. While making regulations can sometimes appear detached from reality, it is very rewarding when someone phones up with a concern or issue and we can help them – perhaps by explaining what the legislation says, or what mechanisms are in place to support them or help to find a solution.”