Introducing work-life balance concept on seagoing ships

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of this article is to examine seafarers' expectations regarding work-life balance solutions and to present examples of actions implemented on seagoing vessels. Authors want to identify activities encompassed by work-life balance conception on seagoing vessels and to identify opportunities to benefit from improvement working conditions in shipping industry.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The research is based on expert interviews with seafarers working for various shipowners and on case study conducted by one of the authors from shipping industry.

FINDINGS: Implementing work-life balance practices on seagoing vessels is a new phenomenon in the maritime industry and not yet widely used.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The conducted research presented a number of practical solutions applicated on seagoing ship, hence the examples given may constitute good practices in the maritime industry. Seafarers' expectations regarding well-being on board a seagoing vessel may be available in the directions of development of the concept of work-life balance in this industry.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The concept of work-life balance has been implemented in the shipping industry for several years. It is a new phenomenon in this sector.