Seafarer working and living rights
Working conditions
There are minimum requirements seafarers must meet to work at sea.
Minimum age
The minimum age for seafarers is 16, although this is 18 if the work involves any:
- night work
- hazardous tasks
Hazardous tasks
Manual tasks on a ship can be hazardous if not done properly, like:
- lifting
- hauling
- mooring
- towing
Employers of seafarers must ensure their staff:
- know how to operate any equipment correctly
- are aware of safety procedures
- have access to protective personal equipment if needed
Medical certification for seafarers
Anyone in charge of a ship must have an ENG1 seafarer medical certificate.
Certificates of competency
Some seafarers will need a certificate of competency before they can carry out certain duties.