HSA targets sea fishing sector with a view to reducing high fatality rate

Friday 30th May 2025

Inspection campaign to focus on helping fishermen to prepare for the ‘harsh and dangerous’ conditions at sea

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) will begin a national sea fishing inspection campaign on Tuesday 3rd June aimed at raising awareness of the hazards faced in the industry and the importance of managing safety and health before leaving port and while at sea. 

Inspectors from the HSA will inspect vessels docked at key sea fishing ports around the coast including Killybegs, Castletownbere, Dunmore East and Kilmore Quay. 

According to the BIM Labour Force Analysis of the Irish fishing fleet, the sea fishing sector in Ireland has a workforce of almost 2,700 people directly employed and a registered fleet of just under 2,000 vessels.  Over the 10-year period 2015 to 2024, there were 24 fatal incidents in the fishing sector.  Based on numbers employed, this means that sea fishing is the most dangerous sector in which to work in Ireland.

According to Ger Hartnett, Senior Inspector with the Health and Safety Authority,

“Fishing is undoubtedly a high-risk job, with fishermen often working in harsh and dangerous conditions where even a minor mistake can have serious consequences.  However, when fishermen plan their work in advance, they can significantly reduce the chances of a fatal incident or serious injury. Preparing for emergencies and having the right equipment on board will also mean the crew are ready to handle any situation that may present itself.”

He added, 

“There are very few workplaces where people are required to work machinery on a platform that is often wet and continually moving. 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.”

The skipper, who is responsible for day to day management of safety, must review all safety measures before leaving port.   Key hazards that must be planned for in advance include those associated with working in confined spaces, exposure to biological and chemical agents, risk of electrical shock, falling overboard or capsizing, manual handling and extreme fatigue due to long 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. 

The HSA Fishing Vessel Safety Statement template, which is available on the HSA website, identifies frequently encountered hazards on fishing vessels and outlines other requirements vital for keeping everyone safe onboard.  

For further information in relation to managing health and safety in the fishing sector, visit www.hsa.ie/fishing