Crew welfare

Since the introduction of the MLC, the ‘Crew Package’ has become more important to crew with additional benefit and medical insurance becoming compulsory for commercial yachts.

Most owners will look after the crew with a full medical policy and cover expenses in the event of illness or injury, however with some exclusions for pre-existing conditions. Or if the yachts insurance changes providers, previous issues may be excluded from the new cover.

It is important therefore to know the health background of new and current crew to make sure they do not fall foul of any insurance exclusion in the event of a claim. It is also vital to know in an emergency if someone has any specific history of illness or reaction to treatment.

The easiest way to do this is to make sure each crew member completes a medical health check and questionnaire as part of the employment as ENG 1 will not highlight any pre-existing conditions. Most insurers if presented with a pre-existing condition at the inception of the policy may include at a small charge or for free.