Marine Medical Solutions, part of OneCare Group, is urging stronger safeguarding measures to protect seafarers, including mandatory declarations for crew living with HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C.

At present, seafarers are not required to declare these conditions before boarding. While this avoids stigma, Marine Medical Solutions warns it leaves a gap in safeguarding at sea.

Dr. Jens Tülsner of Marine Medical Solutions said: “Seafarers living with HIV or Hepatitis should never face discrimination – these conditions can be managed, and they should have the same opportunities as their colleagues. But the nature of life at sea means accidents happen, and blood-borne transmission poses a real risk. The industry must find a balance between protecting privacy and ensuring safety.”

The company proposes confidential declarations requiring seafarers with such conditions to acknowledge their responsibility to protect others. This would include managing their health responsibly onboard and, if necessary, informing designated personnel when disclosure is essential for crew safety.

“This is not about exclusion, but about responsibility,” Dr. Tülsner added. “A simple safeguarding contract would reassure colleagues, support those living with HIV or Hepatitis, and reduce unsafe practices onboard.”

Marine Medical Solutions believes these measures would build trust, reduce stigma, and provide a clear framework for safeguarding in the maritime workplace.

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