Code of Safety for Fishermen and Fishing Vessels

8/13/2019 Code of Safety for Fishermen and Fishing Vessels

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Code of Safety for Fishermen and

Fishing Vessels

Part A

SAFETY AND HEALTH PRACTICE FORSKIPPERS AND CREWS

Published on behalf of

FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONSINTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANIZATION

INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION

by the

International Maritime OrganizationLondon


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First published in 1975

by the INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR

Printed by the International Maritime Organization, London

4 6 8 10 9 7 5

ISBN 92-801-1041-1

IMO Publication

Sales number: IMO 749E

Copyright IMO 1975

NOTE: The name of the Organization as it appears in this publication was changed toInternational Maritime Organization by virtue of amendments to the Organizations

Convention which entered into force on 22 May 1982.


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C:\ramya\handbook Part 2\After Ahana\Fishing Vessels\CODE OF SAFETY A\Code_Part_A.doc

FOREWORD

A resolution adopted by the Committee on Conditions of Work in the Fishing Industry,which was convened by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in December 1962 to study

certain aspects of working conditions of fishermen, recommended the creation of a practicalinternational code dealing with navigational, operational and occupational aspects of safety of

fishing vessels and fishermen, and urged the ILO in collaboration with the Food and AgricultureOrganization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Inter-Governmental Maritime ConsultativeOrganization (IMCO) to examine the possibility of establishing a suitable body to prepare such a

code.

Considering that it was desirable to co-operate within their respective fields ofcompetency, in order to extend the scope of the proposed safety code for fishing vessels to make

reference to all aspects of the safety of fishing vessels and fishermen, the three organizationssubsequently entered into an agreement with respect to the principles of co-operation and theareas of mutual interest and responsibility in the field of fishing vessels and fishermen, namely

FAO, fisheries in general; ILO, labour in the fishing industries; and IMCO, safety of life, vesselsand equipment at sea.

Following the above agreement, draft contributions to the Code of Safety for Fishermenand Fishing Vessels were prepared by FAO, the ILO and IMCO. It was agreed that the Code

should be divided into two parts Part A for skippers and crews, and Part B for fishing vesselbuilders and owners.

The contributions of the three organizations to Part A of the Code were consolidated intoa single draft by representatives of the three secretariats, who met at IMCO Headquarters in

London in January 1968, and the final text of Part A of the Code of Safety for Fishermen andFishing Vessels was adopted by a joint FAO/ILO/IMCO Meeting of Consultants on Safety onBoard Fishing Vessels held in ILO Headquarters in Geneva from 4 to 13 September 1968 1.

In addition, the meeting expressed the view that on all the principal fishing grounds it would be

useful to station ships which could provide hospital facilities, rescue facilities, repair facilitiesand weather information2.

A second joint FAO/ILO/IMCO Meeting of Consultants was held in February 1974 atIMCO Headquarters3and agreed on amendments aiming at the improvement of the contents of

the text and achieving consistency with Part B. These amendments have been incorporated in thepresent edition.

Part B of the Code, which covers safety and health requirements with respect to theconstruction and equipment of fishing vessels, adopted by the second Joint FAO/ILO/IMCO

Meeting of Consultants, is published by IMCO as a separate booklet (Sales Number 75.05.E).

1 The list of participants is given on pages [ ].

2 Information on stationing support ships in all principal fishing grounds has been collected by IMCO,

summarised, and appended to Part B of the Code.3 The list of participants is given on pages [ ].


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CONTENTS

Page

Foreword

Introduction

Chapter 1 General Provisions

Section 1 - Purpose and scope Section 2 - Definitions

Section 3 - Role of bodies and persons concerned with fishing

Chapter 2 Navigation

Section 1 - Navigational equipment and aids to navigation Section 2 - Safety of navigation

A. Steering and look-out

B Collision regulations C. Special signals to be used by vessels

fishing in close proximity

Section 3 - Weather and danger information Section 4 - Signals

A. International Code of Signals B. Distress signals C. Distress messages

D. Position reporting Section 5 - Radiotelephone procedures

Chapter 3 Safety of the Vessel

Section 1 - General Section 2 - Freeing ports

Section 3 - Opening and closing appliances Section 4 - Anchors, cables and chains Section 5 - Stability

Chapter 4 Safety on Deck

Section 1 - Gangways, stairways, ladders, railings and guards Section 2 - Deck lighting

Section 3 - Precautions against falling overboard Section 4 - Ropes and lines

Section 5 - Miscellaneous


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Page

Chapter 5 Safety in Fishing Operations

Section 1 - General

Section 2 - Trawling Section 3 - Purse seining

Section 4 - Danish seining Section 5 - Longline fishing

A. General B. Traditional tuna longline fishing C. Modern semi-automated tuna longline fishing

Section 6 - Tuna pole and line fishing Section 7 - Fish and ice handling

Chapter 6 Safety in Machinery Spaces and of Mechanical Equipment

Section 1 - Main propulsion and auxiliary machinery ... Section 2 - Winches and hoists

Section 3 - Refrigeration plants and compressed air systems Section 4 - Gas cylinders and installations Section 5 - Electrical installations

Section 6 - Hand tools Section 7 - Torches, blow-lamps and hot work

Chapter 7 Special Safety Precautions

Section 1 - Eye protection Section 2 - Protective clothing and equipment

Section 3 - Painting Section 4 - Dangerous work Section 5 - Liver and fish oil boilers

Chapter 8 Life-saving Appliances

Section 1 - General Section 2 - Lifeboats, emergency man overboard/

rescue craft, liferafts and life-jackets Section 3 - Emergency procedures and musters

Chapter 9 Fire Precautions and Fire Fighting

Section 1 - Smoking Section 2 - Fire prevention and precautions

Section 3 - Fire fighting


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Page

Chapter 10 Shipboard Facilities for Personnel, Safety Organizationand Conditions for Employment

Section 1 - Sanitation Section 2 - Lighting and ventilation

Section 3 - First aid Section 4 - Safety and health organization

Section 5 - Conditions for employment

Chapter 11 Abandoning Vessel, Survival and Rescue

Section 1 - Abandoning vessel

Section 2 - Survival when adrift Section 3 - Precautions against sharks and other biting fish

Section 4 - Landing and survival ashore Section 5 - Survival in polar regions

Appendix I - Regulation 3 of Chapter V of the InternationalConvention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1960 Information Required in Danger Messages

Appendix II - Radiotelephone Procedures

A. Reception of Safety Messages B. Distress Transmitting Procedures C. Examples of Distress Procedure

Appendix III - Recommendation for Skippers of Fishing Vessels

on Ensuring a Vessels Endurance in Conditions ofIce Formation

Appendix IV - Recommended Contents of Fishing VesselsMedicine Chest

Appendix V - Artificial Respiration

Appendix VI - Information on Hypothermia

List of participants of the first joint FAO/ILO/IMCO Meetingof Consultants on Safety on Board Fishing Vessels

List of participants of the second joint FAO/ILO/IMCO Meeting

of Consultants on Safety on Board Fishing Vessels

Index


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INTRODUCTION

Work at sea has never been without danger, and the fishing industry has a long andgrowing roll of honour of men who have lost their lives in the performance of their work.

Fortunately, loss of life in most types of fishing is now very much less frequent than it was only afew generations ago, but no technological advances can fully eliminate the forces of the sea and

other natural dangers which fishermen have to face, nor is it possible to eliminate the humanerrors or to make the tools of the fishermans trade the fishing vessels and fishing gear completely accident-proof.

From a primitive occupation, fishing has, in many countries, already become a highly

developed industry employing complex machinery, and this development necessitates theintroduction and expansion of safety measures along lines similar to those which apply to other

major industries. While this has been realized in a number of countries, a more universalunderstanding and acceptance of this attitude would lead to safer working conditions in thefishing industry.

Accidents occurring in the course of work being performed by fishermen, apart from theirdirect detrimental effects, adversely affect the economics of the fishing industry.

Owners of fishing vessels, skippers and fishermen are all responsible for shipboard safety.

The owner has to provide a seaworthy vessel and proper equipment and must promote safeworking practices, but those actually on board play the most important role in ensuring thataccidents are prevented in the course of operations. The skipper is responsible for seeing that

proper seamanship is practised, for ensuring that the equipment is used safely and correctly, andfor ensuring that the work is carried out safely on board his vessel. Each fisherman is responsible

for using the safety equipment provided, and for performing his work in a manner that ensureshis own safety and that of his shipmates. He should also have regard to the safety of the vesseland its equipment. Proper use of safety gear may not always prevent accidents, but it usually

reduces their seriousness whenever they occur.

This Code of Safety and Health Practice for Skippers and Crews of fishing vessels hasbeen prepared as a guide and as an educational medium. It deals with the fundamentals of safetyand health for fishermen and presents safety principles which should be common knowledge and

practice and which, if followed, should greatly reduce the risk of injury to fishermen andaccidents to equipment. The application of these principles will lessen the risk of danger to the

vessel and damage to equipment. Fishermen should study and become familiar with the contentsof this Part of the Code, although it cannot, of course, cover every conceivable situation or be asubstitute for good judgment, clear thinking and quick action.

It is recognized that not all the provisions of this Part of the Code may be applicable to all

fishing vessels in all circumstances, but the principles of this Part of the Code should be appliedas far as is practicable.

It is hoped that this Part of the Code will be found helpful not only to skippers and crews

but also to owners of fishing vessels, government departments, safety associations, vocationaltraining centres for fishermen, and all others who are working to make fishing a safer industry.


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CHAPTER 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS

1.1 Purpose and scope

1.1.1 The purpose of this Part of the Code of safe practice is to provide information with a viewto promoting the safety and health of fishermen.

1.1.2 This Part of the Code may also serve as a guide to those concerned with framingmeasures for the improvement of safety and health on board fishing vessels but is not a substitute

for national laws and regulations.

1.1.3 The scope of this Part of the Code is limited to such basic information as is necessary forthe safe conduct of fishing operations.

1.2 Definitions

1.2.1 For the purpose of this Part of the Code:

(i) fishing vessel is a vessel used commercially for catching fish, whales, seals,

walrus or other living resources of the sea. Certain provisions of this Part of theCode may also apply to vessels used for the processing and/or cold storage of the

catch;

(ii) fisherman is any person working on board a fishing vessel;

(iii) competent authority is the government of the country in which the vessel is

registered.

1.3 Role of bodies and persons concerned with fishing

1.3.1 Bodies and persons who employ fishermen should:

(i) provide such supervision as will ensure that as far as possible fishermen performtheir work in the best conditions of safety and health;

(ii) designate persons or groups of persons whose duty it is to ensure that the relevant

provisions of this Part of the Code are applied;

(iii) satisfy themselves as far as possible that fishermen are properly instructed in the

dangers of their occupation and the precautions necessary to avoid accidents andinjury to health, and in particular that newly recruited fishermen are properly

instructed in accordance with this Part of the Code;

(iv) post in prominent places on board warning notices and instructions whenever

required by any safety regulations or in accordance with safe practice standards;

(v) provide and issue to each new entrant a booklet of elementary safety precautionsbased on the provisions of this Part of the Code.


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1.3.2 Fishermen should promptly report to the skipper, their employer, or if necessary thecompetent authority, any defect discovered on board which is liable to cause danger. If a defect

is such as to cause immediate danger, the use of the equipment affected should not be permitteduntil corrective action has been taken.

1.3.3 Fishermen should make proper use of all safeguards, safety devices and other appliancesfurnished or their protection or the protection of others.

1.3.4 Any accident occurring on board, while the vessel is at sea or in port, should be entered

into the log-book for otherwise properly recorded and reported to the competent authority, andsteps should be taken to ensure that any defective equipment is retained for examination andcorrective action.

1.3.5 Except in cases of necessity, or when duly authorized, fishermen should not remove, alter

or interfere with any safety device or other appliance furnished for their protection or theprotection of others, or interfere with any method or process adopted with a view to avoiding

accidents and injury to health.

1.3.6 Fishermen should acquaint themselves with and obey all safety and health instructions

pertaining to their work.

1.3.7 It is in the interest of every fisherman that he should be able to swim.

1.3.8 Fishermen should refrain from careless or reckless practices or actions likely to result in

accidents or injury to health to themselves and others, or which may cause damage to equipment.

1.3.9 Studies of the causes of accidents on board fishing vessels have shown that the misuse of

alcohol is often a contributory factor. The attention of skippers and crews is specially drawn tothis fact. It is particularly in the early stages of the voyage when evidence of this misuse of

alcohol is found and the skippers and crew are accident prone. An excessive intake of alcohol inany form by a fisherman on board a fishing vessel is a major danger to himself and may be adanger to his shipmates. It must be discouraged.

1.3.10 In order to minimize accidents due to fatigue, fishermen shall be granted adequate rest

periods which should comprise at least six consecutive hours in every period of twenty-fourhours.


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CHAPTER 2 NAVIGATION

2.1 Navigational equipment and aids to navigation

2.1.1 In the interest of safety, charts used should be the latest editions available and of as largea scale as practicable. The latest additional information from notices to mariners, and in

particular that referring to buoys, extinguished lights and other navigational hazards, should bekept up to date on the charts.

2.1.2 Magnetic compasses should be frequently checked. The table of compass deviationsshould be up to date, especially after extensive repairs or alterations to the construction of the

vessel or in parts of a magnetic nature such as (for instance), alterations to or installation of newelectric or electronic equipment on the bridge or fixed or movable steel work (e.g. new derrick

booms).

2.1.3 Gyro-compasses should be switched on in ample time before departure and frequently

checked against the magnetic compass during the voyage. All repeaters should agree with themaster gyro-compass.

2.1.4 Radio direction-finding apparatus on board should be tuned to one of the internationaldistress frequencies when not in use, so as to be ready for operation for direction-finding or

homing purposes in case of distress as soon as the first transmission (alarm signal, distress call ordistress message) is received.

2.1.5 Where homing or direction-finding on 2182 kHz is used, the direction-finding apparatusshould be calibrated to this frequency.

2.1.6 Echo-sounding apparatus, radar equipment and other electronic aids to navigation shouldbe tested frequently and well maintained. Radar should be put on stand-by whenever conditions

of poor visibility are expected. The use of radar in clear weather conditions should beencouraged to improve the crews efficiency in its use.

2.1.7 On fishing vessels provided with an efficient daylight signalling lamp there should bepersonnel proficient in its use.

2.1.8 All equipment should be maintained in good working condition and spare parts carried to

replace losses or to repair breakdowns.

2.2 Safety of navigation

A. STEERING AND LOOK-OUT

2.2.1 Steering gear should always be kept in working condition and should be checked beforeeach departure of the vessel to sea.

2.2.2 Automatic steering should not be used in confined waters, when in close proximity toother vessels, in conditions of poor visibility or in other hazardous situations unless a man isimmediately available to assume manual control.


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2.2.3 The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea require a proper look-outto be kept at all times.

B. COLLISION REGULATIONS

2.2.4 The Rules of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea shall bestrictly followed by all ships upon the high seas and in all waters connected therewith navigable

by seagoing vessels, except in cases where special rules made by local authorities for specialareas (such as harbours, rivers, lakes and inland waterways) are applicable.

2.2.5 The Rules prescribe lights and shapes to be shown by various ships, provisions for soundsignals and conduct in restricted visibility, and steering and sailing principles for navigation

under various circumstances.

2.2.6 Recommendations on the use of radar information as an aid to avoiding collisions at seaare annexed to these Rules.

C. SPECIAL SIGNALS TO BE USED BY VESSELS FISHING IN CLOSE PROXIMITY

2.2.7 While the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea must be obeyed, thefollowing supplementary rules have been recommended by the Inter-Governmental Maritime

Consultative Organization and have been applied by a number of fishing nations in order toprevent accidents in the course of fishing operations by vessels fishing in close proximity.

Signals for Trawlers and Dr if ters

2.2.8 (a) Vessels engaged in trawling, whether using demersal or pelagic gear, may exhibit:

(i) when shooting their nets: two white lights in a vertical line one over theother;

(ii) when hauling their nets: one white light over one red light in a verticalline one over the other;

(iii) when the net has come fast upon an obstruction: two red lights in avertical line one over the other and/or signal P made by sound, light or

hoisting flag P.

(b) Similar signals to the above may be used by drifters.

(c) Each vessel engaged in pair trawling may exhibit:

(i) by night, a searchlight shone forward and in the direction of the other

vessel of the pair;

(ii) by day, flag T hoisted at the foremast: this signal means Keep clear of

me I am engaged in pair trawling;

(iii) vessels engaged in pair trawling, when shooting or hauling their nets orwhen their nets have come fast upon an obstruction, may use signalsrecommended for single trawling vessels in similar circumstances.


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L ight Signals for Purse Seiners

2.2.9 Vessels engaged in purse seining may show two yellow lights, in a vertical line one overthe other. These lights should flash intermittently about once a second in such a way that when

the lower is out the upper is on and vice versa. These lights may be shown only while the

vessels free movement is hampered by its fishing gear, warning other vessels to keep clear of it.

Exhibition of L ight Signals

2.2.10 (a) The supplementary rules referred to above concerning lights shall apply in allweathers from sunset to sunrise, when vessels are engaged in fishing as a fleet,and during such times no other lights shall be exhibited, except the lights

prescribed in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea andsuch lights as cannot be mistaken for the prescribed lights or do not impair their

visibility or distinctive character, or interfere with the keeping of a proper look-out. These lights may also be exhibited from sunrise to sunset in restricted

visibility and in all other circumstances when it is deemed necessary.

(b) For the purpose of these supplementary rules, the words employed shall have the

meaning set down in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions atSea.

(c) The lights mentioned above should be placed where they can best be seen; theyshould be at least 3 feet (1m) apart but at a lower level than the lights prescribed

in Rule 9(c)(i) and (d) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions atSea; they should be visible all round the horizon as nearly as possible.; and theirvisibility must be less than the visibility of lights prescribed by Rule 9(b) of the

International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.

Sound Signals

2.2.11 No sound signals should be used other than those prescribed by the International

Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and the International Code of Signals. Thefollowing signals from the International Code of Signals may be made by sound between fishing

vessels operating in close proximity:

I am shooting nets Z (2 long, 2 short blasts)

I am hauling nets G (2 long, 1 short blast).

2.3 Weather and danger information

Weather Bu ll etins

2.3.1 Fishermen should at all times avail themselves of the information contained in weatherbulletins for shipping given either by radiotelegraphy or radiotelephony, and should be aware ofthe regular times these are issued for the respective areas. Attention is furthermore drawn to the

following forms of information:


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MAFOR Code

2.3.2 The MAFOR Code is used for the transmitting by radiotelegraphy of weather forecasts toshipping. It is intended for use in cases where it is found impracticable, for any reason, to issue

these forecasts in the language of the issuing country and in English.

Storm Warnings

2.3.3 Storm warnings issued by radiotelegraphy, and for coastal areas by radiotelephony, are

always preceded by the International Safety Signal. Types of messages used for these purposesare as follows:

Type of message Correspondi ng wind

(Beaufor t force)

Gale warning 8 or 9

Storm warning 10 or overWarning of tropical cyclones -

2.3.4 In regions where tropical cyclones may be encountered:

Type of message Correspondi ng wind

Wind speed Beaufor t force

Warning Up to 33 knots Up to 7Gale warning 34-47 knots 8-9Storm warning 48-63 knots 10-11

Hurricane (or local synonym warning) 64 knots and over 12 and overTropical disturbance of unknown

origin Uncertain -

2.3.5 Storm warnings are given in plain language, in the language of the issuing station and in

English, transmitted mainly by radiotelegraphy, and by radiotelephony in coastal areas.Hurricane warnings are broadcast as soon as possible regardless of existing schedules.

Danger Messages

2.3.6 The skipper of every vessel which meets with dangerous ice, a dangerous derelict, or anyother direct danger to navigation, or a tropical storm, or encounters sub-freezing air temperatures

associated with gale-force winds causing severe ice accretion on superstructures, or winds offorce 10 or above on the Beaufort scale for which no storm warning has been received, is boundto communicate the information by all the means at his disposal to ships in the vicinity, and also

to the appropriate authorities at the first point on the coast with which he can communicate. Theform in which the information is sent is not obligatory. It may be transmitted either in plain

language (preferably English) or by means of the International Code of Signals.

2.3.7 The transmission of messages concerning the dangers specified is free of cost to the

vessels concerned.

2.3.8 All such radio messages shall be preceded by the Safety Signal, using the procedure asprescribed by the radio regulations in force.


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2.3.9 Information required in danger messages is contained in Regulation 3 of Chapter V of theInternational Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1960, which is reproduced in Appendix I.

2.4 Signals

A. INTERNATIONAL CODE OF SIGNALS

2.4.1 The International Code of Signals is intended primarily for use in situations relatedessentially to safety of navigation and of persons, especially when language difficulties arise. It

is suitable for transmission by all means of communication, including radiotelegraphy andradiotelephony. Special fishery signals are included in the Code of Signals.

2.4.2 The Code of Signals should be carried on board and be available on the bridge at alltimes.

B. DISTRESS SIGNALS

2.4.3 The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea include a number of visual,sound and radio signals which are to be used by vessels in distress.

2.4.4 Vessels shall not use any of these signals for any purpose other than to indicate that theyare in distress. The making of any signal which may be confused with any of the distress signals

is also prohibited.

C. DISTRESS MESSAGES

2.4.5 The skipper of any fishing vessel at sea, on receiving a signal from any source that a ship

or aircraft or survival craft thereof is in distress, is bound to proceed with all speed to theassistance of the persons in distress, informing them if possible that he is doing so. If he is

unable or, in the special circumstances of the case, considers it unreasonable or unnecessary toproceed to their assistance, he should enter in the log-book, or otherwise properly record, thereason for failing to proceed to the assistance of the persons in distress.

D. POSITION REPORTING

2.4.6 Whenever possible, position signals should be sent at not more than twenty-four hourintervals, so that in the event of any mishap occurring, the last known position of the vessel can

be fixed with reasonable accuracy.

2.4.7 In cases where vessels do not have radio facilities and in cases of radio failure, theskipper should, whenever possible, pass his position to another vessel with radio facilities so thatit may be reported.

2.4.8 In all cases the skippers should inform the harbour-master or other responsible person of

their departure from port, the proposed area of fishing and the approximate duration of thevoyage. They should notify the same person of their return to port.


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2.5 Radiotelegraph and radiotelephone procedures

2.5.1 Attention is drawn to the provisions of Chapter IX of the 1977 Torremolinos Convention

relating to watches and radio logs of radiotelegraph and radiotelephone.

2.5.2 Procedures connected with the reception of safety messages and the transmission ofdistress signals by means of radiotelephony are described in Appendix II. Phonetic alphabet and

figure-spelling tables, as well as tables for indicating the position of the incident and the nature ofdistress, are also provided to overcome possible language difficulties. The tables contain anumber of selected signals from the International Code of Signals.

2.5.3 A list of radiotelephone procedure signals, together with the above-mentioned tables,

should be posted near the radio equipment or be readily available at all times to watchkeepingpersonnel.


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CHAPTER 3 SAFETY OF THE VESSEL

3.1 General

3.1.1 The skipper should ensure that all certificates, such as certificates of seaworthiness, as arerequired by the competent authority, are carried on board and are valid.

3.1.2 The skipper should ensure to the best of his ability that his vessel is maintained in a

seaworthy condition and properly equipped.

3.1.3 If in doubt as to the suitability of weather for fishing, the skipper should cease fishing in

good time and take precautionary action.

3.1.4 Necessary care should be taken to maintain adequate freeboard in all loading conditions,and where load line regulations are applicable they should be strictly adhered to at all times.

3.1.5 A sharp look-out should always be maintained, and the crew warned of the imminentdanger of heavy oncoming seas, during fishing operations or while other work is being done on

deck. Special care is required in bad weather, for example by easing down when men aretraversing the deck.

3.1.6 The crew should be alerted to all the dangers of following or quartering seas. If excessiveheeling or yawing occurs the speed should be reduced.

3.1.7 Extra care should be taken when the vessel is hanging fast by its fishing gear.

3.1.8 Bilges should be kept drained and free of debris and oil. Rose boxes and suction strainersof bilge pumps should always be kept clean.

3.2 Freeing ports

3.2.1 Care should always be taken to ensure the quick release of water trapped on deck. Tolock freeing port covers is dangerous. If locking devices are fitted, the opening mechanism

should always be easily accessible. Before vessels depart into areas subject to icing, freeing portcovers, if fitted, should be kept in the open position.

3.2.2 When the main deck is prepared for carrying deck load by dividing it with pound boards,there should be slots between them of suitable size to allow easy flow of water to freeing ports,

thus preventing the trapping of water.

3.3 Opening and closing appliances

3.3.1 All doorways, ventilators and other openings through which water can enter into the hull

or deckhouses, forecastle, etc., should be suitably closed in adverse weather conditions andaccordingly all fixtures and appliances for this purpose should be maintained in good condition.

3.3.2 The fittings for closing and securing hatches should be kept in good condition.

3.3.3 All hatches and flush deck scuttles should be closed and properly secured when not in useduring fishing.


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3.3.4 During fishing operations the number of open hatches should be kept to a minimum.

3.3.5 In bad weather inspections should be made to ensure that hatch covers and lashings are inorder.

3.3.6 Hatch boards should have numbers cut out on them so that they may be replaced in theproper order numbering from fore to aft.

3.3.7 When hatch covers are removed they should be stacked in such a way as to allow free

passage alongside the hatch coaming.

3.3.8 Open or partly open hatches should not be covered with tarpaulins.

3.3.9 Manholes should never be left open or floor plates removed without stanchions and guard

ropes in place, and lights and warning signs displayed to prevent persons from straying intodanger.

3.3.10 Chutes for the disposal of fish offal which could be submerged by rolling motions shouldbe kept properly closed when not in use.

3.3.11 All side scuttles and port deadlights should be maintained in good condition and securelyclosed in bad weather.

3.3.12 All vent pipes to fuel or water tanks should be properly protected against the entry of

water in bad weather.

3.3.13 All closing appliances mentioned in this section as well as those of all inlets and

discharges in the shell plating should be periodically inspected.

3.4 Anchors, cables and chains

3.4.1 Anchors, cables and chains should be periodically inspected and tested according to the

requirements of the competent authorities.

3.4.2 Chains should be withdrawn from use whenever external defects are evident. Brokenchains should not be rejoined by wiring links together, by inserting bolts between links, or by

passing one link through another and inserting a bolt or nail to hold it. Knots should never be put

in chains. Defective chains should be repaired only by properly qualified persons using suitableequipment for the purpose.

3.4.3 Chains that are wound on drums or pass over sheaves should be lubricated at frequent andregular intervals.

3.5 Stability

3.5.1 Skippers should understand the basic principles of stability.

3.5.2 The skipper should be aware of the stability information supplied to the vessel which will

enable him to judge the stability of the vessel in any condition of loading.


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3.5.3 The initial stability of a fishing vessel up to 230 feet (70m) in length can be

approximately determined by means of the rolling period test. A suggested method for carryingout this test is given in Annex III of the Code of Safety for Fishermen and Fishing Vessels

Part B.

3.5.4 Compliance with the stability criteria does not ensure immunity against capsizing

regardless of the circumstances or absolve the skipper from his responsibilities. The skippershould, therefore, exercise prudence and good seamanship having regard to the season of the

year, weather forecasts and the navigational zone and should take note of the particular advicecontained in the following paragraphs of this section.

3.5.5 The skipper should take precautionary measures in order to maintain adequate stability ofthe vessel. All instructions concerning the vessels stability issued by the competent authority

should be strictly observed.

3.5.6 The stowing order of fish-holds should be such as to prevent extremes of trim or heel, orinadequate freeboard of the vessel.

3.5.7 To prevent a shift of the fish load carried in bulk, portable divisions in the holds should beproperly installed.

3.5.8 Partially filled tanks can be dangerous; the number of slack tanks should be kept to aminimum.

3.5.9 Instructions given with regard to ballasting should be observed.

3.5.10 Where alterations are made to the vessel affecting its stability, the competent authorityshould approve the alterations before they are undertaken. Such alterations may be e.g. removal

or shifting, either partially or fully, of the permanent ballast, conversion to new fishing methods,and change of the main engine.

3.5.11 The formation of ice on a vessel is dangerous and should be reduced by all practicablemeans. Attention is drawn to the IMCO Recommendation for Skippers of Fishing Vessels on

Ensuring a Vessels Endurance in Conditions of Ice Formation (IMCO Assembly ResolutionA.269(VIII)) which is reproduced at Appendix III.

3.5.12 All fishing gear and other heavy material should be properly stowed and placed as low inthe vessel as possible.

3.5.13 Particular care should be taken when the pull from fishing gear might have a bad effect onstability, e.g. when nets are hauled by power-block or the trawl catches obstructions on the sea-

bed.

3.5.14 Gear for releasing the deck load in fishing vessels which carry the catch on deck, e.g.herring, should be kept in good working condition.


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CHAPTER 4 SAFETY ON DECK

4.1 Gangways, stairways, ladders, railing and guards

4.1.1 All ladders and stairways should be properly maintained. Wooden ladders should not bepainted but varnished or coated with transparent preservative.

4.1.2 Gangways, stairways, ladders and alleyways should be kept clean to prevent falls due to

slippery conditions. Stairways and ladders should have non-skid treads.

4.1.3 Gang planks, shore gangways and ladders should be made safe against dislodgment or

collapse and should not be located within the swinging radius of derricks or expose personnel toother hazards.

4.1.4 Frequently accidents occur through not using the proper means of getting on or off the

vessel. Fishermen should never jump from the vessel to shore or from the shore to the vessel.When a vessel does not lie close against a quay and quay steps are used, platforms should behooked over the bulwark. When vessels are berthed alongside each other, suitable steps should

be provided in order to give safe access between vessels. There should also be a lifebuoy with asuitable line readily available by the gangway. A net under the gangway may also be useful insome circumstances.

4.1.5 When the shipboard end of a ladder or gangway rests upon the bulwark, firmly fixed steps

should lead from the top of the bulwark to the deck, and be provided with a substantial andproperly secured handhold such as a rail or stanchion. Care should be taken that the arrangementis such that it permits easy and comfortable access from ladder or gangway to steps or vice versa.

4.1.6 Ladders should be firmly secured.

4.1.7 Precautions should be taken when ladders are used on board. Loads should not be carriedon them and ladders should never be used where stairways or gangways are provided for

boarding or leaving the vessel or for crossing from one vessel to another.

4.1.8 The use of portable ladders at sea should be avoided, but should it be necessary to usethem they should be firmly secured against slipping. Non-slip bases may be used or the ladderheld, at its lower end, by another person. The legs at each end should be placed on flat and solid

surfaces and always lashed in place.

4.1.9 Rope ladders should be provided with two cross battens to prevent twisting. They shouldnot be made of steel wire rope and should not be used:

(i) if any rungs are missing, cracked or rotten;

(ii) if the rope is in poor condition or has broken strands;

(iii) if they are not long enough to reach the water-level or quay.

Such ladders should be fully extended and should not be secured to the bulwark by the rungs.Only one person at a time should be permitted on a rope ladder. Persons ascending ordescending a rope ladder should take care to hold the ropes and not the rungs.


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4.1.10 A ladder should not be used if it has:

(i) missing or defective parts;

(ii) a rung repaired by nails, spikes or other insecure means.

4.1.11 Portable stanchions should be secured against accidental lifting out.

4.1.12 Toeboards or stops should be securely fastened.

4.1.13 Railings should be maintained in good repair.

4.1.14 Portable handrails should always be secured and in position when the vessel is under way.

4.1.15 Fishing vessels, when engaged on voyages in the course of which pilots are likely to beemployed, should carry a pilot ladder.

4.2 Deck lighting

4.2.1 During hours of darkness sufficient lighting should be provided at gangways and all otherlocations on deck where personnel must work or pass so that obstructions are readily visible. Ahand lantern should be used, if necessary.

4.2.2 During fishing, lighting on deck should not be extinguished unless the fishing operations

require darkness.

4.2.3 Lighting should be placed so that it does not dazzle a look-out or interfere with the

effectiveness of the prescribed navigational lights.

4.3 Precautions against falling overboard

4.3.1 Fishermen should always be on guard against falling overboard as it is a major cause of

fatalities among fishermen. The pitch and roll of small vessels, the sudden accelerations, theconducting of complex fishing operations on open decks, the frequent hauling in and letting out

of gear over the side or stern, the working on wet slippery decks which are sometimes coveredwith fish blood and offal, and the inevitable fatigue which results from long working hours, areconditions favouring accidental falls overboard.

4.3.2 In bad weather fishing vessels are most vulnerable to shipping water when they are

getting under way after lying broadside on to the waves, especially if the new course is into thewind. Men working on deck are conditioned to the broadside roll and the sudden change inmotion can catch them unawares; as the vessel is at this point most liable to ship a sea, the crew

is vulnerable. In these conditions it is advisable to warn the crew of a change of course or anincrease in speed.

4.3.3 There should be an efficient warning and communication system between the bridge andthe crew.

4.3.4 As a safety precaution, lifelines should be set up as appropriate to the class and size of thevessel.


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4.3.5 When fishermen are required to work in an exposed place or to reach overside in heavyweather, they should be secured by a safety line or safety belt, or wear a life-jacket, or a safety

work vest.

4.3.6 During bad weather, or when the vessel rolls heavily, the speed of the vessel should be

reduced for the disposing of ashes, the fetching of food, the reading of the log, soundings,inspections and other work on deck.

4.3.7 To prevent men from falling or being washed overboard in bad weather, suitable lifelines

with man ropes should be rigged on the working deck.

4.3.8 In heavy weather, fishermen should not work alone on deck without the watch in the

wheelhouse being aware of their presence.

4.4 Ropes and lines

4.4.1 Fishermen should become familiar with the various types of ropes and twines and theirspecial uses on board and, in particular, with the breaking characteristics of synthetic ropes.

4.4.2 Wire rope should always be handled with great care, and gloves used as a protectionagainst injury from projecting strands.

4.4.3 Care should be taken to avoid damaging or weakening ropes through excessive strains orrubbing and chafing against sharp objects.

4.4.4 Fishermen should always ensure that they use ropes only for the purpose for which theyare intended. Care should be taken to see that all ropes in use are in good condition and have a

strength appropriate to their application.

4.4.5 Ropes should be frequently examined for abrasions, broken, deteriorated or displacedfibres or strands and other defects.

4.4.6 Ropes should not be exposed to excessive heat or harmful chemicals. When not in usethey should be coiled and stored under well-ventilated conditions away from direct sunlight.

4.4.7 Rope of right-hand lay taken from a new coil should be withdrawn from the insidecounter-clockwise in order to retain the twist.

4.4.8 Kinks in ropes should always be taken out by correct coiling right-hand coiling for a

right-hand rope. A kinked wire rope should never be pulled taut.

4.4.9 A load should not be placed on a rope suddenly or with a jerk, as this may overload the

rope and weaken it.

4.4.10 A splice should be used where possible in place of a knot, which weakens a rope to agreater extent.

4.4.11 All blocks should be of sufficient strength and large enough for the rope. The diameter of

the sheaves should be suited to the ropes.

4.4.12 A wire rope should never be passed over an undersized diameter pulley, sheave or winchbarrel.


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4.4.13 A wire rope which is fitted round a thimble of suitable size to form an eye should be wellspliced or secured by means of U-clamps fitted so that the U-bolt fits over the short end of the

wire.

4.4.14 A warp or rope should not be thrown loosely over the side, as it may foul the propeller.

4.4.15 Discarded ropes, nets or other gear should not be jettisoned as they constitute a danger to

other vessels.

4.4.16 During the handling of mooring lines or other wires or ropes, care should be taken not tostand in the bights. Hawsers should be coiled down in their correct place and wires wound ontheir reels to reduce the likelihood of bights forming. Fishermen should keep clear of ropes or

wires in tension.

4.5 Miscellaneous

4.5.1 Decks should be kept clear of all loose gear liable to cause tripping.

4.5.2 Oil or grease spills or fish debris should be hosed down and cleaned off to prevent

slipping. Deck hoses should be kept clear of moving warps.

4.5.3 Mats may be used on deck as and when practicable to provide a good foothold.

4.5.4 When fishermen are required to work aloft they should use a boatswains chair or safety

belt. When rigging the boatswains chair to a stay, the bow and not the pin of the shackle mustrest on the stay or standing part. Boatswains chairs should always be held by a block andgantline; the use of open hooks on ladders to this end should be forbidden.

4.5.5 For lifting, thigh rather than back muscles should be used.

4.5.6 A draw-bucket should not be used when a vessel is under way as there is a danger that aman may be pulled overboard.


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CHAPTER 5 SAFETY IN FISHING OPERATONS

5.1 General

5.1.1 The skipper on the bridge should keep a sharp look-out on all fishing operations and usesignals which are positive and clearly understood.

5.1.2 Fishing gear should be in good order and all parts of hauling gear, hoisting gear and

related equipment should be checked before use.

5.1.3 Fishermen should not wear rings when handing nets or other fishing gear.

5.1.4 Fishermen should stand clear of running warps so that the vessels motion does not throw

them onto the ropes.

5.1.5 Fishermen should keep clear of outrunning gear of all types.

5.1.6 Fishermen should not stand on parts of the gear lying on deck when the remaining part is

still in the water.

5.1.7 When fishing gear is fouled, it should be cleared in the safest possible way.

5.1.7 bis Fishermen should be aware of the dangers of handling unfamiliar objects, such as

explosive devices or drums of chemicals, hauled up by the fishing gear.

5.1.8 Fasteners (obstructions to gear on the sea-bed) are a source of danger on deck until the

last section of gear is on board. The pull to clear fasteners should be from as low a point and asnear to the ship side as possible. Great strains can occur in unexpected places when heaving on

taut warps or by the motion of the vessel. Fasteners which result in the gear being parted at oneend and the entire load being hauled from one warp present dangerous situations.

5.1.9 Fishermen should not risk crushing the ir fingers by trying to clear a line from the sheaveof a block.

5.1.10 Deck fish-washing machines should be assembled and dismantled with care.

5.1.11 In fish rooms, shelving and staging should be erected carefully. Pound boards should notbe piled in a loose stack. As work progresses, front boards should be removed one by one.

5.1.12 Poundboards on deck and means for stowing and working the fishing gear should bearranged so that the effectiveness of the freeing ports will not be impaired or water trapped on

deck and prevented from easily reaching the freeing ports.

5.1.13 If a look-out is positioned in the crows nest, he should use the means provided forclimbing the mast, position himself properly inside and not straddle the protective rails.

5.2 Trawling

5.2.1 A person standing at or near the towing block in a side trawler when the warps are beingsecured or knocked out exposes himself to the risk of serious injury. Only an experiencedfisherman should block up or knock out the gear. When blocking up, there is a real danger

of the messenger parting, with the likelihood of serious injury, and it is essential not to stand aft


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of the messenger or between the messenger and the centre casing. When knocking out,fishermen should stand forward of the towing block and never immediately behind it.

5.2.2 The vicinities of bollard fairleads are also danger areas, and fishermen should never get

too close when the gear is being worked.

5.2.3 When clutching for support, the fisherman should make sure that he does not grasp the

warp.

5.2.4 Releasing and securing trawl boards is a skilled and dangerous operation. This should bedone by trained men who understand the proper signals to communicate with the winchman.

5.2.5 Fishermen should not put their fingers through the links when fixing dog chains or G-links.

5.2.6 A standard code of hand signals should be adopted for signalling to the winchman

handling the trawl.

5.2.7 It is dangerous to work near the ramp of a stern trawler. Safety devices should always be

used to prevent sliding overboard.

5.2.8 At least three complete turns of a trawl warp should remain around a trawl winch drum at

all times; the end of the warp whipping off the drum could cause serious accidents.

5.2.9 During shooting and hauling, fishermen whose presence is not necessary for the operationshould keep clear of the operating area.

5.2.10 When the quarter rope is released from the fairlead during shooting, fishermen should notstand between the rope and the rail, and should not stand in a bight of the rope. If a man is

trapped by the rope, it should be cut at once.

5.2.11 Fishermen should pay special attention to ropes connected to the net such as bridles,

quarter ropes, false headlines, etc., when shooting. They should never stand in the bights of suchropes.

5.2.12 If a headline float gets caught in a mans clothing, it should be released at once by cuttingthe clothing.

5.2.13 Fishermen should not stand under the fore warp on a side trawler when the vessel is

towing; nor should they stand over a slack warp as a load may suddenly come on it. Steppingover trawl warps during shooting or hauling is extremely dangerous.

5.2.14 When beam trawls or otter trawls are towed from the outboard end of outrigger booms therudder should always be hand-operated.

5.2.15 During double-rig trawling the winch drums should not be clutched in. The drums shouldbe held on the brakes only.

5.2.16 The outboard ends of the outrigger booms should be kept as low as possible and beprevented from lifting.


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5.2.17 When a net becomes fastened to an obstruction on the sea-bed, the winch drum brakesshould immediately be released. The warp block at the outboard end of the boom should then be

lowered and brought inboard.

5.2.18 The skipper should never try to recover an obstructed net with the warp running over the

block at the outboard end of the outrigger boom. There is a danger of capsizing the vessel in thisway. The same applies to hoisting heavy or unknown weights in this manner.

5.2.19 No fisherman should stand under the codend when it is being hoisted.

5.2.20 Fishermen should stand clear of the man who holds the dog chains since he must havesufficient room to jump clear if the boards come up awkwardly.

5.2.21 When the boards are coming up, fishermen should stand aft of the aft gallows and fore of

the fore gallows to give the winchman a clear view. They should not stand between the gallowsand the bulwark when the boards are coming in.

5.2.22 Fishermen should not climb on the bulwark when fixing the dog chain. If this fixing hasto be done out of easy reach, the steps and protective rail provided should be used.

5.2.23 Fishermen should beware of dangers overhead when working near the gallows.

5.3 Purse seining

5.3.1 To reduce the danger of fishermen stepping inside loops of purse ring bridles duringsetting of the net, the bridles should be coiled in the net or else stowed in a separate box orcompartment next to the clothes-pin (rack or bar) from which the rings run out.

5.3.2 When setting begins, the net should be so arranged that it is pulled out by a buoy or skiff

without the crew having to expose themselves to danger by going aft of or on top of the net.Where men have to go on top of the stowed net in an exposed position safety harness should beworn.

5.3.3 During setting of the net the winchman should take care not to allow the drums to turn

faster than the purseline wire runs out, so as to avoid fouling the wire.

5.3.4 The extension rope attached to the tail end of the net should be coiled down in a separate

box or compartment so that there is no danger of fishermen being caught in the loops duringsetting.

5.3.5 A sharp knife should always be kept handy near the net bin or platform.

5.3.6 Fishermen should avoid standing below an overhead power block or transfer blockbecause of the danger of their being hit by heavy purse rings passing through the blocks. Where

such a danger exists, fishermen should wear protective helmets.

5.3.7 When handling big catches it is essential to brail or pump the fish on board as quickly as

possible to avoid an excessive weight of dead fish in the net.

5.3.8 The sinkerline and breastline of the bunt should be so attached to the vessel that they canbe quickly released if fish lie too heavily in the net and endanger the stability of the vessel.Preferably the breastline and that part of the sinkerline which is tied upon the bunt boom and/or


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on the railing of the vessel, during brailing or pumping, should be fitted with rings through whichis threaded a wire, fixed to the vessel at either end with an easily released sliphook.

5.3.9 When the netting is liberally hung in, the bunt may still retain a heavy weight of fish even

after the breastline and sinkerline have been released. It is therefore advisable to attach bridles to

the bunt floatline so that it can be hoisted up to release the fish.

5.3.10 Should the vessel heel over dangerously and if it is not possible to release the fish thevessel should be driven ahead and turned towards the listing side. When this does not succeed in

righting the vessel, the net should be slacked off immediately or cut.

5.3.11 Where the net is stacked high in an exposed place it is highly desirable to fit removable

stanchions with guard ropes to prevent men from falling overboard, or men should wear a safetyharness.

5.3.12 Sea-water in the hold causes the fish to become fluid and shift. Care should be taken to

separate sea-water from the fish during brailing or pumping before the catch reaches the hold,using slanting gratings leading to the hatches. Similarly blood water seeping from the fish should

be pumped out frequently.

5.3.13 Fish carried on deck should be covered by double tarpaulins securely fixed, for instanceby nailing wooden strips over the edges to the outside of the railing and to fixed pound boards.

On steel vessels a wooden plank should be bolted on for this purpose.

5.3.14 In an emergency the skipper should be able to release the deck load through special portsby a quick-release mechanism.

5.3.15 When fish are carried on deck, lifelines should be rigged at a suitable height.

5.3.16 Where a small auxiliary boat is used, it should always carry light and sound signalequipment in good working order, and the crew should wear life-jackets.

5.4 Danish Seining

5.4.1 To avoid the danger of foul bights in the warps, fishermen should:

(i) take care in stacking coils;

(ii) check that shackles are the right way round so that the lower coil will run freely;

(iii) secure coils so that pitching and rolling will not dislodge them.

5.4.2 If a warp fouls, fishermen should stand clear until all way is off the vessel. The foul coilsshould then be thrown overboard by hand and not kicked overboard.

5.4.3 When setting the first warp, the speed of the vessel should be reduced for thelast 30 fathoms of rope and slow speed maintained until the net is all in the water.

5.4.4 If the warps are not coming in evenly, fishermen should never put their hands on them.The tension-adjusting handle should be used.


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5.4.5 Towing blocks should be firmly anchored, the clasp closed and the safety chain inposition.

5.5 Longline fishing

A. GENERAL

5.5.1 When baiting hooks or handling lines, fishermen should at all times take particular care

that their hands are not injured, and that hooks do not snag in their clothing. Loose scarves orloose sleeves should not be worn.

5.5.2 Lines should be coiled carefully and the hooks safely arranged, so that the line runs freelywithout snags when being paid out.

5.5.3 Baskets, tubs or reels of lines should be adequately secured so that they do not spill in bad

weather.

5.5.4 Fishermen not directly engaged in setting or hauling lines should keep away from the

immediate vicinity of moving lines.

5.5.5 When biting or other potentially dangerous fish are being hauled on board, they should be

killed before they reach the deck, and the hook should not be removed until the fish is dead.

5.5.6 When taking bait from the hold, fishermen should be careful to dig into the pile in such away as to avoid it caving in on top of them.

5.5.7 Fishermen should handle the glass floats of a line carefully to avoid cuts from brokenglass.

5.5.8 Fishermen hauling by linehauler should avoid getting their hands caught by the mainlineor branchlines. Others should stand clear of the hauler at all times. The fisherman operating the

hauler should be able to control it quickly and easily.

B. TRADITIONAL TUNA LONGLINE FISHING

5.5.9 When setting lines by hand the fisherman whose duty it is to join the lines should

confirm to the thrower that the next part is connected properly and ready for use.

5.5.10 If abnormal strains occur when the line is being set, and this cannot be corrected byeasing the vessel's speed, several coils of the line should be thrown overboard quickly or the lineshould be cut.

C. MODERN SEMI-AUTOMATED TUNA LONGLINE FISHING

5.5.11 When setting the longline, the skipper should adjust the speed of his vessel to thecapabilities of the line-setting mechanism.

5.5.12 As line storage reels may suddenly reverse when longlines are being set, fishermenshould be aware of this possibility and avoid having their hands caught; they should take carethat they are not injured by floats and branchlines coming back on deck.

5.5.13 When the line is fouled, fishermen should keep clear of the conveyor and guide rollers.


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5.6 Tuna pole and line fishing

5.6.1 Fishermen should be spaced at adequate intervals on the fishing platform.

5.6.2 Fishermen should not swing their poles carelessly but should have regard to the position

of other persons and avoid injuring them with flying hooks. It is recommended that gogglesshould be worn to avoid eye injuries caused by flying hooks.

5.6.3 If a fisherman finds that he is in danger of being pulled off the fishing platform by an

exceptionally large fish, he should lower his rod so that the line is in a straight line with the rodso permitting it to be easily broken.

5.6.4 When a fish is landed on deck, and the hook does not disengage itself, the fishermanshould not turn around to pull forcibly on it but wait until the deck crew have cleared it.

5.6.5 Chummers (bait-throwers) should position themselves at the proper distance from the

pole fishermen.

5.6.6 When open-circulation sea-water bait tanks are used, no fisherman should go into the tank

for any purpose, e.g. to close sea-water circulation holes, unless a second man is present andwatching.

5.6.7 Where there is a long, narrow fishing platform fishermen should not use it as apassageway.

5.6.8 When the fisherman ceases to fish, he should return at once from the platform to the deckof the vessel.

5.7 Fish and ice handling

5.7.1 In the gutting, washing and stowing in ice of the catch, fishermen should be familiar withthe proper handling of different species of fish to avoid hand injuries from teeth or the sharp

spines of certain species.

5.7.2 Pricks and cuts from fish spines should be bled and treated without delay; some givepoisonous wounds which can be painful and troublesome.

5.7.3 When handling blocks of frozen fish, fishermen should wear protective gloves.

5.7.4 Fishermen should be careful when chopping ice in the ice hold and use only the propertools.

5.7.5 In ice holds a pile of ice may become hollow owing to left-over ice melting; fishermenshould take precautions against falling into an ice cave.


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CHAPTER 6 - SAFETY IN MACHINERY SPACES AND

OF MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT

6.1 Main propulsion and auxiliary machinery

6.1.1 During the operational period while the vessel is in port, routine examinations and

maintenance of machinery should be carried out.

6.1.2 Ships' engineers should be thoroughly conversant with all the machinery for which theyare responsible, and should strictly observe the rules for its proper operation, maintenance, repairand testing.

6.1.3 Manufacturers' instructions relating to the proper operation of main and auxiliary

machinery and regarding the proper fuels and lubricating oils to be used, should be on board.

6.1.4 Fencing or guards, for dangerous parts of machinery should not be removed while theplant is running. If they have to be removed they should be replaced as soon as practicable, andin any case before the machinery is put into operation.

6.1.5 Parts of machinery which are not securely fenced or guarded should not be lubricated,adjusted or repaired while in motion. When such operations must be carried out while the

machinery is running, they should be done by a competent person.

6.1.6 Moving machinery parts should not be cleaned while the machine is in operation. Beforestarting or turning over machinery, care should be taken to ensure that nobody is working on orin the way of moving parts.

6.1.7 Men engaged in servicing operating machinery should wear clothing as close-fitting as

possible and headgear to cover long hair. Neckties and rings on fingers should not be worn.

6.1.8 When machinery is stopped for servicing or repairs, measures should be taken to prevent

inadvertent restarting or turning. Fuses should be removed from electrical circuits, steam, wateror air valves should be secured in the closed position, and other machinery and gear should be

locked to prevent movement. Propulsion machinery and steering gear should be effectivelyprevented from moving when repairs are carried out at sea.

6.1.9 When engines are hand-cranked by means of a flywheel handle, the handle should begripped with the thumb on the same side as the fingers of the hand for protection against possible

flywheel recoil.

6.1.10 To avoid furnace blow-backs and possible serious accidents, furnaces should be purged

with air before lighting up; a fuel oil burner should never be lit off hot brickwork nor be lit in afurnace in which fuel oil has accumulated. Boiler-room personnel should know and follow the

correct sequence for lighting up, firing and shutting down boilers. For lighting a burner a torchshould be used and the operator should stand clear.

6.1.11 Where oil tanks are not connected to the deck by a permanent filling pipe, a threaded

funnel or other leakproof fitting which can be screwed onto the tanks' filling connexion should beused when fuelling.


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6.1.12 To prevent accumulation of static electricity, fuel oil tanks and filling systems should be

well earthed during fuel oil transfer operations. Bonding cables connecting the vessel to theshore should be connected before fuel oil hoses are attached, and disconnected after the hoses are

removed.

6.1.13 Metal flame screens fitted on vent pipes should be cleaned periodically.

6.1.14 When valves or cocks are fitted to gauge glasses on oil fuel tanks they should be opened

only to determine the oil level in tanks, and closed thereafter.

6.1.15 The filter of a visible sediment bowl in the fuel line from the tank to the engine should be

kept clean.

6.1.16 Boilers, boiler furnaces and boiler flues should be checked for safety before any work ispermitted in them.

6.1.17 The vacuum should be broken or pressure relieved by opening drains of a boiler beforethe manhole doors, hand-hole plugs or other boiler fittings are opened for cleaning, inspection or

repair.

6.1.18 Before work is attempted on a valve or any other piece of equipment which operates

under pressure it should be determined that the pressure has been relieved. In doubtful cases,securing nuts should be eased off slightly and the joint broken before proceeding.

6.1.19 All cocks on the water gauges of an operating boiler should be blown throughperiodically to ensure that the water-level shown in the glass is true.

6.1.20 Covers and guards of gauge glasses should always be in place when a boiler is under

pressure, to avoid the possibility of serious eye injuries and scalding due to a bursting glass.

6.1.21 Care should be exercised when opening valves to steam lines in order to prevent

water-hammer. Condensate drains provided should be opened and steam allowed to pass veryslowly until condensate ceases to form in the line.

6.1.22 Spare machinery or heavy pieces of equipment should be secured to prevent movementin heavy seas.

6.1.23 Engine-room floor plates, ladders to and from the engine room, handrails, etc., should be

kept free from grease at all times.

6.2 Winches and hoists

6.2.1 As far as practicable, all moving parts of winches which may present a hazard should be

securely guarded or fenced. Sheaves should also be guarded where practicable.

6.2.2 A winch or windlass should only be operated by a competent person.

6.2.3 All equipment used in hoisting should be tested and examined at periodic intervals asestablished by the competent authorities.


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6.2.4 All parts of hauling gear, hoisting gear and related equipment should be maintained ingood repair and working order.

6.2.5 The maximum safe working load of hoisting gear should be marked on the derricks.

6.2.6 Fishermen should be aware of the danger of trying to lift too great a load by putting extraturns of rope or wire on a warping head.

6.2.7 Ropes or wires should be led onto winches at an angle which will minimize slipping.

They should not normally be guided on by hand.

6.2.8 When warps on winches are renewed, the correct size and length should be obtained so

that the winch drum can accommodate the full length. When the warp is fully unwound, threecomplete turns should remain coiled on the drum.

6.2.9 Winch brakes should be kept in good adjustment and should operate without grabbing,

chattering or slipping.

6.2.10 The controls of winches should have clear operating instructions attached to or adjacent

to them.

6.2.11 Wire ropes used for hoisting and warps should be maintained in good condition and

suitable for the work to be performed. They should not have knots, kinks, reverse bends orbroken strands. Ends of wire ropes should be seized or otherwise secured to prevent the strands

from coming loose.

6.2.12 Blocks and sheaves should be properly lubricated at regular intervals. All shackles used

aloft should be of a locking type or should be fixed so that they cannot come loose bythemselves.

6.2.13 Loads should be applied smoothly to warps, wires and ropes. Sudden jerks should beavoided.

6.2.14 Before hoisting or applying loads to wires and ropes by warping heads the wire or rope

should be hand-tightened before being laid on the warping head. Special attention should begiven to ensure that the turns on the warping head do not cross each other.

6.2.15 Winch drivers should not leave winches unattended with power on or with a loadsuspended.

6.2.16 The winchman should assure himself that all men are standing clear of the danger zonebefore applying any load.

6.2.17 Loads being hoisted or lowered should not pass over or remain suspended over persons.

6.2.18 Scarves or loose clothing are liable to be caught in a winch and should not be worn.

6.2.19 Frayed wires constitute a danger and should be promptly replaced.

6.3 Refrigeration plants and compressed air systems

6.3.1 Refrigeration plants and compressed air systems should be maintained and periodically

examined in accordance with regulations prescribed by the competent authority.


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6.3.2 Whenever any gas which may be harmful to persons is used in a refrigerating system, at

least two sets of supplied-air or self-contained breathing apparatus of a type approved by thecompetent authority should be placed conveniently near to the refrigeration plant but not in a

position likely to become inaccessible in the event of a leakage of gas.

6.3.3 No flame-producing devices, or hot surfaces which may cause explosions, should be

permitted in spaces in which refrigeration machinery or equipment using flammable gases isinstalled.

6.3.4 When air compressors are in operation water condensation should be regularly drainedfrom the air dischargers and inter-coolers. The drains on compressed air receivers should be

operated periodically, and air filters should be regularly cleaned.

6.4 Gas cylinders and installations

6.4.1 Cooking and domestic appliances using heavy gases should be used only inwell-ventilated spaces and care should be taken to avoid a dangerous accumulation of gas.

6.4.2 Cylinders for compressed, liquefied and dissolved gases should be clearly marked as totheir contents by means of prescribed identification bands of colour, and have a clearly legibleindication of the name and chemical formula of their contents. Extreme care should be taken to

ensure that the correct gas and the appropria te fittings are used.

6.4.3 Cylinders containing flammable or other dangerous gases should be stowed on opendecks, and all valves, pressure regulators and pipes leading from the cylinders should be

protected against damage. Cylinders should be protected against excessive variations of

temperature, direct rays of the sun, accumulation of snow, and continuous dampness.

6.4.4 Cylinders should always be properly secured.

6.4.5 When the installation is not in use, when gas cylinders are changed or when there is a

failure, the valves on the gas cylinders should be closed.

6.4.6 The detection of leaks in gas systems should be carried out only with approved testequipment.

6.4.7 Oils or grease should not be used on oxygen cylinders or fittings.

6.4.8 Compressed oxygen should never be used in lieu of compressed air for the starting orturning over of engines or machinery.

6.5 Electrical installations

6.5.1 To minimize hazards all electrical equipment and circuits of fishing vessels should bewell maintained, in accordance with regulations established by the competent authority. Onlycompetent persons should be permitted to install, maintain or remove electrical equipment or

circuits. Unauthorized installation of electrical equipment of any kind is highly dangerous and

should be forbidden.

6.5.2 Electrical circuits should be treated as though they are live until it is certain that theyare not.


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6.5.3 All portable electrical equipment should be regularly checked by a competent person,

special attention being given to the condition of power cables and their connexions.

6.5.4 Portable electrical equipment exposed to the weather should be protected from dampness

and corrosion as well as from mechanical damage.

6.5.5 Portable electric lamps should be used only where adequate permanent fixed lightingcannot be provided, and they should always be checked before use, especially for frayed cables

and faulty connexions. Only lamps manufactured as portable should be used.

6.5.6 All electrical equipment should be earthed or otherwise suitably protected. Earth faults

should not be allowed to persist but should be remedied as soon as possible.

6.5.7 Fuse boxes and fuse holders should be checked at regular intervals to ensure that thecorrect rating of fuse is being used. Fuses should never be bridged; they are safety devices. Only

fuses having the correct amperage rating for the particular circuit should be used. During workon motors or circuits, fuses should be removed or switches left open and tagged as a warning toothers.

6.5.8 Personnel should stand on a non-conducting mat or board when working on electricalequipment.

6.5.9 Excessive sparking at a commutator or excessive heat in motors, generators, switches,

cables, fuses, etc., should be remedied at once.

6.5.10 All possible precautions should be taken to prevent steam, water or dirt from accidentally

contacting switchboards, generators, motors and other electrical equipment.

6.5.11 Smoking or generating sparks should be prohibited near electric storage batteries.

6.6 Hand tools

6.6.1 Hand tools should be of good material and construction and maintained in safe

condition.

6.6.2 Hand tools should be periodically checked by a competent person, and defective tools

should be immediately repaired or replaced. The use of tools with mushroomed or broken headsshould not be permitted.

6.6.3 Fishermen should keep all tools clean, use the right tool for the job, and keep cuttingtools sharp and stored safely when not in use.

6.6.4 Handles of hand knives should have hilt guards or finger grips, to prevent the hand

sliding onto the blade.

6.6.5 Open-bladed knives, fish-hooks, gaffs and similar sharp implements should be sheathed

or otherwise put safely away when not in use.

6.6.6 Tools or small parts of equipment should never be left lying on staging, gratings, etc., inthe engine room or aloft on deck. They should always be placed in a box, bucket or bag, orlashed to prevent them from accidentally falling and injuring persons passing or standing below.


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6.6.7 Tools and other equipment should be lowered from above by use of a gantline.

6.6.8 When an eye-bolt is used to lift machine and boiler parts, it should be screwed down intothe receiving hole as far as its collar. Over-length eye-bolts should not be used.

6.6.9 Cold chisels and punches should preferably be held between the thumb and index fingerwith the palm of the hand open and turned towards the holder.

6.6.10 A spanner or wrench should be correct size for the job, have jaws which are not worn and

fit squarely on the nut. The adjustable jaws of a wrench should lie on the side of the handletowards which the handle is moved. Pipe wrench jaws should be kept in good condition.

6.6.11 It is dangerous to use a wrench on moving machinery. Tools and other gear should beremoved before restarting a machine which has been serviced.

6.6.12 Hand tools should only be used for the purpose for which they are intended.

6.6.13 Hammering on the hardened surfaces of tools, machinery parts or equipment is hazardousbecause metal chips may fly.

6.7 Torches, blow-lamps and hot work

6.7.1 Safety instructions concerning the use of blow-torches and oxy-acetylene welding andcutting torches should be carefully followed, and such equipment should be continually watched

when in use. Blow-torches should not be completely filled with fuel, and only small filler cansshould be used to fill the preheating pans.

6.7.2 For starting hot-bulb engines the same instructions apply, and in addition the blow-lampsshould be securely fastened to the engine.

6.7.3 Fishermen should not undertake soldering, welding and similar hot work on tanks andother containers holding flammables or on empty tanks and containers which have held

flammables or acids.


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CHAPTER 7 - SPECIAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

7.1 Eye protection

7.1.1 Fishermen should keep clear of water dripping from nets, as the drip may be irritant tothe skin and especially to the eyes. They should not rub their eyes with wet hands.

7.1.2 Eye injuries are often caused by fragments of metal or paint, and are generally serious.

Fishermen should always wear goggles for protection when performing such work as chippingrust or paint, scaling, using a cold chisel, grinding tools, handling chemicals and working onelectrical storage batteries.

7.2 Protective clothing and equipment

7.2.1 Working clothes should fit as closely to the body as possible; there should be no loose

strings or cuffs on trousers. Pockets, if any, should be few and as small as practicable.

7.2.2 Fishermen should wear footwear which is appropriate for the work being performed and

is in good condition.

7.2.3 Waterproof safety boots should be worn in certain working conditions.

7.2.4 During rain or bad weather and in darkness protective clothing having a highly visib le

colour should be worn.

7.2.5 Fishermen working at very low temperatures in holds for deep frozen fish should be

adequately clothed.

7.2.6 Aprons should not be worn near revolving or reciprocating machine parts or electricmotors.

7.2.7 Safety belts and harnesses should be worn by men working aloft or overside. Theyshould be tested periodically and checked before being used.

7.2.8 Fishermen engaged in cutting or gutting of fish should wear gloves sufficientlyreinforced to provide adequate protection against cuts.

7.2.9 In selecting work gloves, consideration should be given to the hazards to which the

wearer may be exposed and to the need for free movement of the fingers. Gloves should fitsnugly at the wrists.

7.2.10 Only self-contained breathing apparatus, smoke helmets, smoke masks, or masks of atype approved by the competent authority, should be worn as a protection against the inhalation

of smoke, fumes, gases, vapours or dust which are injurious to health. Fishermen should beinstructed in the proper working of such apparatus before being required to use it.

7.2.11 The attention of fishermen should be drawn to the harmful effects of high noise levels in

the engine room and to the various methods to minimize them.


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7.3 Painting

7.3.1 Paints containing arsenic should never be applied to the interior of living spaces.

7.3.2 Paints, varnishes and preparations having a nitrocellulose or other highly flammable baseshould not be used in interior spaces.

7.3.3 Fishermen should remove paint from their hands before eating, and as far as practicable

wear protective gloves or barrier creams when painting.

7.3.4 Fishermen using spray painting equipment should wear respiratory protection such as

face masks or filters.

7.3.5 When interior spaces or enclosed compartments such as ballast tanks, double bottoms,fore and after peaks are to be repainted, they should first be thoroughly ventilated.

7.3.6 Where flammable paint is used in interiors these spaces should be well ventilated; nakedlights and smoking should be forbidden until the paint is dry.

7.4 Dangerous work

7.4.1 When a fishing vessel is under way, work overside should only be undertaken in cases ofemergency, when harnesses should be worn. In such cases a second man should be in

attendance.

7.4.2 Fishermen should not carry out overside work between vessels moored side to side or

between a vessel and an adjacent pier or quay.

7.4.3 Should it be necessary for fishermen to climb on rails while fishing or performing workon nets, precautions should be taken for their safety. Safety harnesses or safety lines should beworn.

7.4.4 Corrosive chemicals such as lye, oxalic acid and caustic soda should be handled with

care and according to instructions in order to avoid injury to the eyes and skin.

7.4.5 Compartments which have been closed for long periods such as water tanks, coffer-dams

or double bottoms should be checked and found "gas-free" and with sufficient oxygen beforeanybody is permitted to enter without approved breathing equipment. Safety lines should always

be used when such spaces are entered, and a second man should be in attendance.

7.4.6 It is hazardous to work in the vicinity of radio antennae or radar scanners due to danger

from both radiation and the rotation of scanners. Permission should be obtained from the personin charge of the bridge before such work is undertaken and the circuit fuses should be removed

to make the equipment inoperable.

7.4.7 Fumigated rooms should not be re-entered until the authorities carrying out the

fumigation have certified that all parts of the vessel are safe.

7.4.8 Fishermen should not be required to work for unduly long periods in low-temperaturerefrigerated spaces. The length of such periods should vary according to the temperature of suchspaces.


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7.4.9 Fishermen should be aware of the dangers of the emission of poisonous gases fromfish-holds, which may arise under certain circumstances from chemicals or industrial fish.

7.5 Liver and fish oil boilers

7.5.1 Care should be taken that the outlet pipes of liver boilers do not become obstructed. If,during the boiling of livers, steam does not escape from the pipe, the steam-inlet valve should be

closed immediately and with care, and the pipe cleared.

7.5.2 Fishermen should be aware that livers stored in liver boilers at room temperature formore than 48 hours start to develop flammable gases.

7.5.3 Warning notices should be posted at appropriate places, that naked lights or flames areprohibited in the vicinity of a liver boiler when the cover is removed, and that the boiler should

not be filled with livers to more than three-quarters of its capacity.

7.5.4 Only properly instructed fishermen should be permitted to carry out liver boiling.

7.5.5 Liver boilers should never be left open and unattended with steam on.


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CHAPTER 8 - LIFE-SAVING APPLIANC

Code of Safety for Fishermen and Fishing Vessels

Documents

Transcript of Code of Safety for Fishermen and Fishing Vessels