Maritime field studies: methods for exploring seafarers' physical activity

In order to determine the health status of seafarers, questionnaires are frequently applied or medical/ /psychological examinations conducted ashore, for example, in the form of medical fitness examinations or simulator training. In such a survey design, the occupational influences and the individual reaction cannot be ascertained. However, these aspects are especially important in the maritime context as employees on board are often exposed to the typical shipping-related stressors in the workplace for many months, both during working hours and during leisure time. In particular, it is assumed that working on board requires a high level of physical effort. Therefore, an exploration of occupational stress and strain, particularly the assessment of the seafarers' physical activity, should preferably be carried out in a comprehensive and realistic way in a maritime field study, i.e. an on-the-job survey directly on board.