Title 4 of MLC 2006 covers health protection, medical care, welfare and social security for seafarers.
Medical certificate
A valid medical certificate is required before working at sea (Regulation 1.2). Its validity depends on the seafarer's age and duties. You cannot join a ship with an expired certificate.
Medical care on board and ashore
Seafarers on board must have access to the medical care they need, including medical care ashore. Ships must carry a medicine chest, a medical guide and appropriately trained persons.
Shipowner's liability (Regulation 4.2)
If a seafarer becomes sick or injured during the period of the employment agreement, the shipowner is generally liable to:
- cover the costs of medical care,
- pay wages while the seafarer remains on board,
- continue to cover care and wages for a period defined by national law after the illness or injury. National law may limit this liability, but not to less than 16 weeks.
Social protection
Seafarers are guaranteed access to social security protection. The extent depends on the law of the flag State and the seafarer's country of residence.
What should you do?
- Report the illness or injury to your superior immediately and have it recorded.
- Keep medical documents and receipts.
- Check your contract for who pays treatment and repatriation costs.
- If unresolved, follow the complaint procedure.
General information only; not medical or legal advice.