Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) is generally defined as the science of anticipation, recognition, evaluation and control of hazards arising in, or from, the workplace that could impair the safety, health and well-being of workers. This includes the promotion and maintenance of the highest degree of physical, mental and social well-being of workers in all occupations. It also takes into account the possible impact on the surrounding communities and the general environment. The central focus of OSH is to assess and manage occupational risks through the application of preventive and protective measures. The topic is complex and covers many different areas of work activity. It concerns with standards that need to be adjusted frequently in line with changes in technology and evidence from systematic research regarding potential workplace risks for human health.

The maritime working environment comprises physical, electrical, ergonomic, chemical, biological, psychosocial hazards which could lead to occupational accidents, injuries and diseases. For example, shipping is perceived to be a relatively dangerous industry. Seafarers face extreme work conditions, isolations, long hours of work, rigid organizational structures, high levels of stress and fatigue.

Other than shipping, the maritime environment covers the entire global supply chain; transportation and logistics of the sea, air freight and land. In another important aspect, offshore mining and activities rely heavily on OSH practices to ensure optimum productivity and high output, while promoting secured and healthy workplace environments. In short, the maritime OSH plays crucial role in both commercial value, throughout offshore and on-shore, and global sustainability.