HSA to begin inspections on sea fishing sector with view to reducing high fatality rate

The BIM Labour Force Analysis indicates that the Irish fishing sector employs nearly 2,700 workers and operates a registered fleet of just under 2,000 vessels. File picture: David Creedon

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is to begin targeted sea fishing inspections to ensure measures are in place to keep crews safe.

There were 24 deaths in the fishing sector between 2015 and 2024 which, based on the numbers employed, makes sea fishing the most dangerous sector in which to work in Ireland.

From next Tuesday HSA inspectors will evaluate vessels at major fishing ports, including Killybegs, Castletownbere, Dunmore East, and Kilmore Quay. 

The Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) Labour Force Analysis shows the Irish fishing sector employs nearly 2,700 workers and operates a registered fleet of just under 2,000 vessels.

Ger Hartnett, senior inspector with the HSA, noted that fishing is a high-risk occupation, with workers exposed to tough and perilous conditions. He emphasized that proper planning can greatly lower the risk of serious accidents. 

“Preparing for emergencies and equipping vessels appropriately ensures that crews are ready for any challenges,” he said.

He also urged skippers and boat owners not to take safety for granted. He highlighted a rare working environment where operators handle machinery on wet and shifting platforms. 

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"It is vital that skippers and boat owners manage the risks and put the necessary controls in place to protect themselves and their crew. Don't just assume that you will know what to do when in an emergency. Plan for it,” he added.

Key hazards faced by those working in sea fishing include confined space work, exposure to biological and chemical agents, electrical shock risks, falling overboard, capsizing, manual handling, and fatigue from prolonged hours at sea.

By law, a risk assessment and safety statement must be prepared for every vessel.  This process should assess the risks in advance thereby helping to avoid the very serious incidents which occur each year in the industry.