THE METHOD OF DETERMINING THE STESS BURDEN OF SHIP CREW MEMBERS BY MONITORING THE LEVEL OF CORTISOL
Abstract
Introduction. Determining the level of stress load is one of the most important problems of modern management. This paper is devoted to the problem of using stress load analysis by continuously monitoring the level of cortisol in employees who have a high level of stress in the course of performing their professional duties. The list of such professions is very wide, therefore, the authors focused on employees of the transport industry, specifically, water transport workers. Purpose. This article examines the impact of stress on the level of shipping safety. The authors of the article argue that constant monitoring of the stress load of navigators can help reduce the number of ship accidents. It is this category of employees who, as a rule, often perform their duties under high stress, which is the cause of many ship accidents in different parts of the world ocean. Results. It was found that assistant captains have higher cortisol levels than captains. This may be due to the lesser experience of assistant captains. Changes in weather conditions caused an increase in cortisol levels in shipmasters. This demonstrates the importance of taking weather conditions into account when developing work schedules and contractual terms for seafarers. The study also confirmed the relationship between nutrition, rest and stress levels. Recommendations for proper nutrition and regular rest can help reduce stress. That is why it is necessary to constantly monitor the stress load of employees, which will help reduce the number of ship accidents and prevent numerous consequences that arise as a result of accidents. The study is dedicated to assessing the stress load of shipmasters based on the analysis of cortisol levels. This was done using urine collection and laboratory tests, taking into account factors such as age, work experience and environmental conditions. The results showed an increase in cortisol levels in assistant captains, especially in adverse weather conditions. The application of this method has revealed the possibility of promptly monitoring stress levels and regulating the workload of ship’s officers. The study also highlighted the impact of nutrition and rest on stress levels. Recommendations for changes in working conditions were proposed and adopted in practice by the shipowner, including the procedure for changing seafarers and reducing the duration of contracts depending on the season. The general conclusions allow us to consider this method as an effective tool for measuring seafarers’ stress and ensuring safety of navigation. Conclusions. Measuring urinary cortisol levels is an effective method for assessing the stress load of seafarers. Its use has made it possible to promptly monitor and adapt working conditions to ensure safe navigation. Attention should be paid to the psychological state of seafarers, especially assistant masters. Weather conditions should be taken into account in the development of work schedules and contractual terms for seafarers. Recommendations on proper nutrition and regular rest can help reduce seafarers’ stress. Technological means for operational monitoring of cortisol levels should be developed, which can help regulate stress and improve shipping safety.
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