As Britannia P&I Club explains in their Crew Watch publication, the importance of maintaining proper hydration levels onboard cannot be overstated.
Dehydration can lead to a range of problems, including fatigue, headaches, and decreased cognitive function, which can impact a seafarer’s ability to perform their duties safely and effectively, Britannia notes. The recommended daily water intake for adult males is 2.5 litres, while females should aim for 2 litres.
Most of this water should come from drinks, with the remaining 30-40% from food. It is also important to note that water is the best type of fluid to drink. These guidelines serve as a baseline, but individual requirements may vary based on factors such as age, body composition, climate, and physical activity
According to Britannia, seafarers can adopt several best practices to ensure adequate hydration:
- Consistently drink water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Thirst is often a delayed indicator of dehydration
- Sip water rather than drinking lots of water in one go, to avoid it passing straight through you
- In addition to water, include beverages with electrolytes to replenish salts lost through sweating
- Pay attention to the colour of your urine; pale yellow indicates good hydration, while dark yellow or amber signals dehydration
- Limit the consumption of alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration
- Keep a reusable water bottle within reach to encourage regular water consumption.
Overall, the maritime work environment affects seafarers’ hydration levels due to prolonged periods, extreme temperatures, and demanding tasks. During the adjustment period, seafarers face higher heat-related illnesses and dehydration risks. Raising awareness about hydration is crucial for seafarers’ well-being and performance.
