HE01095 - Seafarers' Criminalization

An examination of the types of incident that have resulted in criminal charges against Masters and seafarers.

A recent survey indicates that nearly 24% of Masters have faced criminal charges. With 50,000 ships trading internationally, and about 65,000 Masters, that is 15,600 Masters. In addition, the survey states that 8% of seafarers have faced criminal charges. Incidents involving pollution and major incidents with loss of life are most likely to lead to criminal charges.