Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) also commonly referred to as Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is an area concerned with the safety, health and welfare of people engaged in work or employment. The goals of occupational safety and health programs include fostering a safe and healthy work environment. OSH may also protect co-workers, family members, employers, customers, and many others who might be affected by the workplace environment.

The maritime working environment comprises the physical, ergonomic, chemical, biological, psychological and social elements which could lead to occupational accidents, injuries and diseases. For example, shipping is perceived to be a relatively dangerous industry. Seafarers face demanding working conditions, isolation, long hours of work, rigid organizational structures and high levels of stress and fatigue. They must also learn to communicate with others from multinational crews. Consideration should be given to challenges connected to the structural development of the composition of the crew, especially regarding crews with different nationalities and cultural backgrounds. This should be recognized when developing a safety culture on board.