Occupational Stressors and Workplace Challenges Faced by Seafarers in Lithuania: A Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Maritime Health
• Occupational Psychology
• Workplace Stress Management

Background:

• Seafarers face unique occupational stressors due to isolation and demanding work conditions.
• Factors such as long duties, irregular hours, time zone changes, and sleep deprivation negatively impact seafarer well-being.
• This study investigates occupational stressors among Lithuanian seafarers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the occupational stressors experienced by seafarers in Lithuania.
• To identify key factors contributing to perceived stress in the maritime workforce.
• To inform the development of targeted stress management interventions.

Main Methods:

• A quantitative study was conducted in Klaipeda, Lithuania, in 2023.
• A paper survey was administered to 385 Lithuanian seafarers.
• The HSE Management Standards Indicator Tool (HSE-MSIT) was utilized to assess occupational stressors.

Main Results:

• The primary stressors identified were changes at work, relationships, peer support, and management support.
• Role clarity, demands, and work control were not significant stressors for this cohort.
• Seafarers with shorter work experience (0-11 years) and junior positions reported higher stress levels, particularly concerning demands and role clarity.

Conclusions:

• Changes at work, interpersonal relationships, and the quality of peer and management support are critical factors influencing seafarer stress.
• Junior seafarers and those with less service time experience elevated occupational stress.
• Findings support the creation of tailored stress management and training programs for different seafarer demographics.