The US Coast Guard published its Maritime Health & Wellness journal, highlighting importance of health and wellness for mariners because they are essential to the safety, security, and efficiency of the marine transportation system.
As Mayte Medina Chief, Merchant Mariner Credentialing U.S. Coast Guard notes, the marine transportation system (MTS) is comprised of four vital elements:
- Mariners
- vessels
- waterways
- ports.
As the human element of the MTS, mariners’ medical, physical, and mental health status is as important as their professional qualifications for safe and efficient maritime operations.
The Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing (MMC) focuses on the human element of the MTS by developing the regulations and policies governing U.S. merchant mariner credentialing prevention-related activities to achieve marine safety, security, and stewardship success. This includes having qualified and healthy mariners manning today’s vessels.
Moreover, it is noted that medical certification is important because the risk of a subtle or sudden incapacitation can have grave impact on the mariner, other members of the crew, the vessel and operations, and the environment.
To put it simply, working aboard a vessel is a tough job with a lot of risk! Therefore, it is mutually beneficial to all stakeholders that crew members are fit to perform the duties and responsibilities for the position they serve,
… the Journal adds.
Focus is also given on the use of canibidiol, something that mariners are banned from.
Claims that a product is free of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the psychotropic compound in marijuana, is no guarantee and it could cost you your career.
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