THE FACTS
The latest figures show that commercial fishing is by far the most dangerous job and UK fishermen face a risk of death over six times higher than the most dangerous land-based industry.
The major causes of fatalities are going overboard, flooding, and capsize. For example:
THE LAW
You must have written and discussed a formal risk assessment on your vessel. More guidance here https://www.gov.uk/guidance/fishing-vessel-health-and-safety
You must wear a PFD on deck unless your risk assessment can discount it. More information here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mgn-588-ilo-work-in-fishing-convention-health-and-safety-pfds
You must have a written fisherman’s work agreement for all the fishermen on your vessel. Example here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/model-fishermans-work-agreements
You must have checked that all the fishermen on your vessel have a certificate of medical fitness in advance of the required date. More information here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/msn-1883-ilo-work-in-fishing-convention-medical-examination-and-certification
You must have insurance or another form of financial security so that you can meet your liabilities for compensation if a fisherman is ill, is injured or dies as a result of working on your vessel. More information here https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/1106/contents/made
Having a Safety Management System will help you comply with the requirements of ILO188, as well as help comply with Codes of Practice and make your MCA survey quicker and cheaper. More information here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mgn-596-fishing-safety-helping-to-improve-safety-fishing-vessels
RESPONSIBILITIES
Owners of UK-flagged fishing vessels are responsible for basic health and safety on board their boats, safe working practices and safety equipment
THE CONSEQUENCES
Failure to take adequate measures for the health and safety of crew is a criminal offence punishable with a fine or a prison sentence.
Failure to wear a PFD when provided may be a criminal offence punishable with a fine.
READ MORE
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ilo-work-in-fishing-convention