Can health interventions float? A process evaluation of workplace health intervention on board a vessel in the North Sea

Objective: To promote the physical and mental health of employees in a maritime setting and provideknowledge and tools to assist seafarers in managing daily challenges. Materials and methods: The intervention drew on a goal-based approach, including workshops, coaching,health checks, interviews, and questionnaires. Results: A process evaluation was used to explore intervention challenges and barriers. Results showthat an intervention at sea is complex and needs flexibility. Findings varied, and the main challenges werelow participation in one group and lack of continuity due to Covid-19. Data showed a significant positiveshift in how the crew rated perceived stress and a statistically significant increase in intake of salad, fish,and vegetarian food. Conclusions: Workplace interventions in poor health status settings are complex, necessary, and possible,and management’s participation is crucial. Increased awareness was achieved.Learning outcomes: The results showed some positive changes, such as lower stress levels and moreintake of salad, fish, and vegetarian food. Flexibility is important for workplace interventions. Workplaceinterventions contribute to health and wellbeing with appropriate management support.