The Seaman’s Church Institute has published a study into the best practices for the treatment and rehabilitation of seamen, who have suffered through the stresses of a pirate attack. The SCI has used extensive mental health research, and inputs from shipping companies, crewing agencies, and maritime industry representatives to develop a series of practical measures that can be taken to help seamen adjust after their ordeal.

The document includes guidelines that must be followed at 5 different stages of a pirate attack.

When you First Receive News of a Pirate Attack

This section includes guidelines to ensure the safety of seamen and protect them from harm, help them deal with the situation, and keep communication lines open between the vessel and the owners of the vessel, owners of the cargo, government bodies and insurers.

When the Crew is Being Held

The document advises that the company begin to prepare for the crew’s release. This includes determining whether a seaman suffers from a pre-existing medical condition that might have worsened during captivity like heart problems, stroke, anxiety disorders etc. During this time, the company must also maintain a continuous flow of information to the seaman’s family.

When Release is Imminent

Families must be kept updated, with a timeframe when their loved one will be released. Medical and health resources must be ready, to ensure that seamen receive immediate medical care as soon as they disembark.

After the Release of the Crew

Medical assessments must be made, including a psychiatric assessment.  After this, the crewmembers must be reunited with their families. Seamen and their families must be aware of the symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

When the Seaman Returns to Duty

This includes conducting a medical assessment.  It’s highly recommended that the seaman be monitored during the first voyage after the pirate attack, because this when flashbacks and other symptoms of PTSD may be manifested.

As maritime lawyers who are currently representing the victims of the pirate attack on the Maersk Alabama last year, we know how traumatic these ordeals can be for the seamen.  It’s good to see a systematic program that can help these workers get back on the road to physical and emotional recovery.