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Artificial intelligence (AI), automation and alternative fuels are transforming maritime shipping, and creating new and often under-recognised risks for seafarers. 

These risks arise when technological change is implemented without adequate safeguards, training or meaningful engagement with workers

Violence and harassment are systemic risks in maritime shipping. Seafarers operate in isolated, confined and hierarchical environments that increase exposure to bullying, intimidation, physical violence and sexual harassment. 

The closed nature of ships, combined with prolonged periods at sea and

Access to safe, clean and adequate sanitation facilities is a core component of decent working and living conditions under the Maritime Labour Convention. 

In practice, seafarers often face significant risks where sanitation standards are substandard, poorly maintained or not accessible. Given that

In maritime transport, the risks of modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking rise significantly where seafarers are recruited through agencies and intermediaries, misled about terms and conditions, subjected to delayed or non-payment of wages, or prevented from leaving ships at the end of

Discrimination in maritime supply chains undermines equal access to decent work, fair treatment and career progression. Seafarers are recruited from a limited number of labour-providing countries, creating hierarchies and dynamics on board ships where nationality, race or ethnicity can determine

The MLC includes many provisions for a healthy and safe environment on ships, including the maximum length of time on board, the right to shore leave, the right to medical treatment, the crewing of ships, and the standards of accommodation and food. 

There are a range of occupational safety and

Maritime transport is defined by systemic factors that create significant human and labour rights risks. 

The widespread use of Flags of Convenience – where ships are registered in countries other than that of their true ownership to reduce costs and regulatory oversight – undermines accountability

Climate change is a growing occupational safety and health risk for transport workers, and is already reshaping working conditions. 

Rising temperatures, extreme cold, storms, flooding and other severe weather events increasingly expose workers to hazardous conditions – generating operational

Mental health and psychosocial risks are significant and growing across transport, often driven by other risks outlined in this guidance. 

Job insecurity, excessive and irregular working hours, work intensification, surveillance, isolation and the pressure associated with safety-critical

Transport work involves repetitive movements, manual handling, static postures and prolonged periods operating vehicles, machinery or equipment. 

When procurement and operational decisions prioritise cost efficiency, speed or productivity, ergonomic factors are often overlooked – and workers can