Enhancing Seafarers' Health through Advanced Digital Technology
In the heart of Hamburg, a city known for its maritime tradition, a groundbreaking project is underway. The Central Institute for Occupational Medicine and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), an institution closely connected to the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hamburg and part of the Hamburg Justice Authority, is leading the charge.
The E-Healthy Ship project, funded by the European Fund for Regional Development (EFRE), the Hamburg Authority for Health and Consumer Protection (BGV), and the project partners themselves, with a total volume of around 1.8 million euros, aims to revolutionise health management on board merchant ships.
The project team, spearheaded by the ZfAM, has developed two digital tools: the E-learning platform "Crewhealthy" and software modules for the maritime computer program "Cloud Fleet Manager". The Crewhealthy platform includes learning courses, weekly quiz games, a cookbook, and a tool for ordering food, offering visually appealing tips on nutrition, sports, mental health, sleep quality, and relaxation techniques on board.
The new health-related modules enable digital management of sick leave records, medications, and crew members' access to their own illness and treatment cases within the Cloud Fleet Manager application. This innovative approach not only improves health management but also streamlines administrative processes.
Shipping companies can implement an individual performance-based evaluation in points to increase motivation and regular use of the E-learning platform. This feature encourages seafarers to actively engage in maintaining their health and well-being while at sea.
Since mid-2018, health data from the crew has been collected on test ships of Hamburg shipping companies. The project's success is evident as it has already made a significant impact, paving the way for a healthier future for seafarers worldwide.
The development of these digital tools has been coordinated by the company Tilla, which created a digital, AI-based platform aimed at managing and digitizing crew changes in maritime shipping. Although primarily focused on crew management, this platform also supports various integrated data sources, providing a comprehensive solution for health management on board.
For more information about the E-Healthy Ship project, visit e-healthy-ship.eu. The project underscores the commitment of Hamburg's maritime community to the well-being of its seafarers, a commitment that extends far beyond the city's waters.
It is estimated that over 1.5 million people worldwide work as seafarers, and with projects like E-Healthy Ship, the quality of life for these hardworking individuals is set to improve significantly. The future of health management on board merchant ships is digital, and Hamburg is leading the way.
