SERVICE-RELATED HEALTH RISKS AMONG MARITIME SEARCH AND RESCUE (SAR) PERSONNEL: A QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY

Background
Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel are exposed to combined physical, environmental, and psychosocial burdens, yet data on their health risks and lifestyle patterns in the Baltic Sea region remain limited.

Material and methods
A cross-sectional diagnostic survey was conducted among 126 male SAR crew members from central SAR units (n=47) and coastal rescue stations (n=79). An author-designed 35 item online questionnaire assessed sociodemographic profile, intervention characteristics, physical and environmental load, psychosocial support, and health related behaviors. Qualitative variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi squared tests (p<0.05).

Results
Two distinct risk profiles were identified. Coastal rescue station personnel reported high regular exposure to environmental hazards: the moderate but systematic category was indicated by 70.9% for noise without hearing protection, 73.4% for fuels and chemicals, 74.7% (biological material), 69.6% for intense sunlight/UV. In central units, 36.2% declared no contact with fuels/chemicals and 31.9% no contact with biological material. Health and lifestyle indicators were less favorable in central units. Normal body mass index (18.5-24.9) was observed in 53.2% vs 86.1% in coastal stations (p<0.001).

Conclusions
SAR personnel require differentiated, unit specific and service-length sensitive prevention, including structured debriefing and targeted health promotion.