• 15 June 2023

Investing in Employee Wellbeing: A Critical Component of Sustainability in the Maritime Industry

The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) recently conducted its annual membership survey to gauge the priorities of its members in the areas of environmental, personnel, and technological concerns for the next three years. The results of the survey were telling, with employee safety and mental health emerging as top priorities for 72% of the respondents.
Stephanie McLay, Chair of the IMarEST Seafarer Mental Health and Wellbeing special interest group, commented on the findings, stating that the results reflect a growing realization among employers that focusing on employee safety, physical health, and mental health is crucial to having an effective workforce. McLay went on to add that prioritizing employee wellbeing is not just the right thing to do, but it is also vital for safeguarding vessel safety.
The maritime industry has long been known for being a high-risk sector, with employees facing numerous hazards on a daily basis. Ensuring that employees are adequately trained, equipped, and supported is essential to minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries. However, the focus on employee safety and mental health is not just about minimizing risk; it is also about creating a positive work environment where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to perform at their best.
According to the survey results, employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of investing in their employees' wellbeing. This reflects a growing trend across many industries, where companies are realizing that prioritizing employee wellbeing is not only the right thing to do but is also essential for business success. Research has shown that organizations that invest in employee wellbeing have better employee engagement, retention rates, and productivity.

IMarEST members also identified compliance with environmental regulations and cybersecurity as top priorities. With the increase in automation and digitization in the maritime industry, cybersecurity has become a critical concern. The potential consequences of a cyber-attack can be severe, ranging from financial losses to reputational damage and even environmental disasters. Therefore, it is essential for companies to prioritize cybersecurity and ensure that their employees are adequately trained to identify and respond to cyber threats.
Compliance with environmental regulations is another critical concern for the maritime industry. The industry has long been associated with pollution and environmental damage, and there is growing pressure on companies to reduce their environmental impact. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set ambitious targets to reduce the industry's greenhouse gas emissions, and companies that fail to meet these targets risk facing reputational damage and regulatory fines.
The survey results highlight the need for companies to take a holistic approach to sustainability, considering the environmental, social, and economic impacts of their operations. Investing in employee wellbeing is not only essential for employee satisfaction and productivity, but it is also a critical component of sustainability. Companies that prioritize employee wellbeing are more likely to attract and retain talented employees, reduce turnover, and improve their overall performance.
The IMarEST membership survey provides valuable insights into the priorities of the maritime industry. The focus on employee safety and mental health, compliance with environmental regulations, and cybersecurity reflects the growing recognition among employers that prioritizing employee wellbeing is crucial for business success. The survey results send a clear message to companies that investing in employee wellbeing is not just the right thing to do, but it is also essential for creating a positive work environment, improving employee engagement and productivity, and safeguarding the environment. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, companies that prioritize employee wellbeing and sustainability will be better positioned to succeed in the long run.
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