Health checks in working life

A while ago we received an email from a student who had been given a diagnosis that might affect their studies and perhaps even their choice of career (the email is anonymised):

“Hello, my name is X and I am studying the master mariner programme at School Y. I have just learned that I have type 1 diabetes (insulin-treated). Can you issue a seafarer’s medical certificate, or would this be an obstacle? Grateful for a reply.”

This is how we replied:

“The regulations say: Diabetes is in many cases an obstacle to service. A seafarer already in the profession who develops diabetes may, however, be allowed to remain if the disease is well controlled. Insulin-requiring cases and cases with serious vascular complications generally mean the seafarer should not serve at sea in unlimited waters.”

Type 1 diabetes (insulin-requiring) is therefore an obstacle to service in unlimited waters. Service in limited or inland waters may still be approved. In the individual case it is up to the Swedish Transport Agency’s physicians to decide. The agency has its own specialists who decide on exemptions.

Some occupations have statutory minimum requirements for health and function, which must be documented through medical examinations. It is worth knowing your health status before choosing a career.