Benefits for Crew in Case of Death While on Duty

The death of a crew member while on duty is an event that no one wants to happen. However, when it does occur, it must be handled appropriately according to laws and related contracts. The shipowner and relevant parties have procedures in place to ensure that the beneficiaries are properly cared for and compensated according to their rights.

Emergency Contact in Case of Death

When a crew member dies, the company will notify the emergency contact (Next of Kin), who is the person the crew member has designated in the contract. Initial details of the event will be provided as far as they can be disclosed at that time.

Benefits the Crew Should Receive

The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) outlines measures to protect the benefits of all crew members working on international ships. It clearly states that shipowners must provide financial security to ensure compensation in case of death or long-term disability due to work-related injury, illness, or hazard.

According to MLC Standard A4.2 – Shipowners’ Liability (b), shipowners must provide financial compensation in accordance with national law, the seafarers' employment agreement, or any collective agreement in place. Typically, shipowners use insurance from P&I Clubs to cover these compensations. The minimum amount that insurers will pay to beneficiaries in case of death is approximately 50,000 USD.

"Shipowners shall provide financial security to assure compensation in the event of the death or long-term disability of seafarers due to an occupational injury, illness, or hazard, as set out in national law, the seafarers’ employment agreement, or collective agreement;"

Contract Review and Preparation

Every time a crew member boards a ship, they should carefully review their contract or clarify with the shipowner about the terms of compensation in case of death or injury to ensure that both they and their beneficiaries are properly protected according to the rights they are entitled to.

Conclusion

Although death on a ship is something no one wants, crew members should prepare by informing their beneficiaries about the rights they will receive in case of death. This is to ensure that the beneficiaries receive the compensation they are entitled to. While companies are responsible for this matter, having clear knowledge of these rights can help prevent loss of benefits in the future.