The Tech2Heal Finnish Consortium Researchers Gain Insight into Coast Guard Working Conditions at Sea

Researchers from the Tech2Heal Finnish consortium, representing the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH) (Satu Soini, Satu Mänttäri and Jutta Karkulehto) and the University of Oulu (Petra Suonnansalo), visited a Coast Guard station within the West Finland Coast Guard District to gain first-hand insight into the working conditions of Coast Guard personnel.

The West Finland Coast Guard District is responsible for a broad range of maritime safety and security duties, including border surveillance and control, maritime search and rescue, environmental protection, and the prevention of cross-border crime.

Working alongside other authorities, the Coast Guard also helps maintain public order and safety, provides emergency medical transport, and oversees fishing and hunting activities.

During the visit, the researchers toured both a patrol vessel and a speedboat used in operational duties. They also took part in a sea trial on the Baltic Sea to observe working conditions and assess occupational exposure during vessel operations.

Researchers from FIOH measured noise levels, temperature, humidity and wind speed using specialised monitoring equipment. The data collected will contribute to a better understanding of the physical demands and environmental exposures experienced by Coast Guard personnel in their day-to-day work.

For more info:

https://raja.fi/en/west-finland-coast-guard-district  (English)

https://raja.fi/merella (Finnish)