Mapping the Maritime Occupational Health and Safety Challenges Faced by Canadian Seafarers

Abstract

This chapter explores the occupational health and safety challenges faced by Canadian seafarers. Maritime occupations continue to be among the most dangerous occupations in the world. Technological development and climate change, as well as the increasing level of Arctic shipping opening driven by oceanographic changes together with technological innovation, lead to significant health and safety challenges for mariners in Canada. Drawing on findings from two research projects on seafaring occupational health and safety (OHS), including qualitative semi-structured interviews with 25 Canadian seafarers and a preliminary legal review of Canadian maritime OHS law, this chapter presents some common OHS challenges confronted by Canadian seafarers and the gaps existing in the current Canadian maritime OHS law. These challenges include increasing Arctic shipping activities led by the climate change, intensified work-related mobility, and insufficient legal protection.