Occupational Stressors Among US Maritime Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Content Analysis by Age and Gender.

Abstract

The study investigated how COVID-19 impacted US mariners' well-being and the differences in stressors and needs by demographic group. Using a qualitative content analysis, we analyzed 478 open-ended responses from US mariners who worked during the pandemic to systematically identify stressors and solutions. Inadequate organizational support, inability to deboard the vessel, and ineffective COVID-19 controls were identified as primary stressors. Female mariners reported more economic uncertainty concerns, while younger mariners (18 to 34) more frequently mentioned extended voyages and inability to deboard. These findings offer useful insights for the maritime industry to inform actionable strategies in future public health emergencies. Findings suggest a need for equitable application of emergency protocols, processes to preserve shore leave, consistent communication between shoreside employers and vessels, and mechanisms to address workforce well-being through compensation and recognition.