Marine Medical Solutions calls for mandatory safeguarding declarations from seafarers with HIV or Hepatitis

Marine Medical Solutions, a member of OneCare Group, is calling for stronger safeguarding measures to protect seafarers, including the introduction of mandatory declarations for crew members living with HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C.

Currently, seafarers are not required to declare these conditions before boarding a vessel. While this is intended to avoid stigma and discrimination, Marine Medical Solutions believes 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 at the same time, the nature of life at sea means that accidents happen, and blood-borne transmission poses a real risk. The industry must find a balance between protecting privacy and ensuring safety.”

Marine Medical Solutions is proposing that seafarers with such conditions be required to sign a confidential declaration acknowledging their responsibility to protect others. This would involve committing to manage their health responsibly onboard and, where appropriate, to inform designated personnel if they believe disclosure is necessary for the safety of the crew.

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

Marine Medical Solutions believes that introducing such measures would strengthen trust, remove stigma, and provide a clear framework for safeguarding in the maritime workplace.