Life as a commercial fisherman is not easy. Being away from loved ones for long periods of time and spotty communication can lead to feelings of loneliness. The constant cycle of long and unpredictable work hours can lead to severe fatigue. Financial uncertainties and harsh weather conditions can add even more stress. It’s no surprise that some in the maritime industry turn to alcohol, especially binge drinking, to cope. While it might offer a quick feeling of relief, alcohol can impact safety by affecting those crucial thinking and physical skills we all need to perform our work at sea.
Alcohol acts like a depressant on our nervous system, significantly affecting judgment, coordination, reaction time, and even our eyesight. All of these are important for safety aboard a fishing vessel. These effects can be stronger at sea due to vessel movement, engine noise, and just plain fatigue. Even a small amount of alcohol can lead to risky situations.
Sadly, the facts show a clear link between alcohol and drug use and a significant number of accidents and tragic losses in commercial fishing. A study by the CDC investigating fatalities in U.S. commercial fishing from 2000 to 2016 found that alcohol and drug use were factors in over 18% of falls overboard. Our ability to perform critical tasks starts to decline long before someone is legally intoxicated or even feels “drunk”. Even small amounts of alcohol, mixed with the demands of the maritime environment, can seriously impact the skills needed for safe fishing.
Knowing the intense pressures and risks involved, it’s important to help crew members find healthy ways to manage stress. Having a regular daily routine can provide a sense of stability and control. Making sure everyone gets enough rest, and good sleep is key for both physical and emotional health. Incorporating easy exercises that can be done in small spaces can make a difference in how workers feel, both physically and mentally. Fueling your body well with a balanced diet (taking advantage of the great nutrition in freshly caught seafood) and devising practical strategies for eating well onboard are vital for keeping energy levels up and staying healthy. Connecting with your fellow crew members is a crucial way to ward off feelings of boredom and isolation and can boost focus and overall readiness.
Staying properly hydrated is paramount to health and safety when you’re working at sea. Dehydration can impact both your physical and mental abilities and can increase the risk of heat-related health issues. Good hydration includes drinking water regularly throughout the workday, understanding why replacing electrolytes is important during heavy sweating, making sure clean and cool water is always readily available. Being mindful of drinks that can dehydrate you, like those containing high sugar or caffeine, and especially alcohol, is important. Offering a variety of non-alcoholic drinks alongside water can help shift the onboard culture towards healthier choices. Sparkling water, juices, even non-alcoholic beers can make the choice not to drink alcohol much easier and more appealing, leading to a safer and healthier environment for everyone.
Looking out for our health and safety in the demanding world of commercial fishing takes ongoing efforts. While the pressures of the job might sometimes make alcohol seem like a way to decompress, there are healthier ways to manage stress, fatigue, and boredom. Ultimately, making safety and personal health a priority is important for each crew member and for the safety of the whole vessel.
Stacey & Jacobsen encourages captains, vessel owners, crewmembers, and family to actively support the well-being of people who work at sea and to remember that reaching out for help or addressing concerns about substance use is a sign of strength and responsibility. A culture of safety begins with everyone.
For more information and helpful resources, please check out the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) website.