PSS wins grant to improve UK fishing port safety

PSS has received a grant from The Seafarers’ Charity to support UK fishing ports in improving the safety of fishers working in and around their ports.

This new project will include a review the existing SiPs to ensure they recognise the unique operations undertaken in fishing ports and work collaboratively with fishing ports to share best safety practices and incident learnings.

It is well-known that fishing is one of the most dangerous sectors to work in, but that doesn’t mean that ports should not apply the same standards to fishing operations as they would to any other port operation. It is sometimes too easy for ports to dismiss safety concerns relating to fishing because of the known risks. However, when it comes to maintaining safety standards, there is much ports can do. From enforcing no alcohol and PPE policies, to ensuring safe access and egress, this project will work with ports to improve safety. It cannot just be left to fishers to improve safety standards in the sector.

PSS CEO, Debbie Cavaldoro

This new project represents an exciting innovation for Ports Skills and Safety and one The Seafarers’ Charity is delighted to financially support as part of our commitment to improving fishing safety. Previously our funding support has focused on supporting fishers to improve safety onboard their fishing vessels. This new project expands the focus on safety to the wider work environment – the local fishing port or harbour where fishers depart and the catch is landed. We anticipate that this new project will become an important part of the jigsaw in improving fishing safety as it broadens the responsibility for safety beyond the vessel and into the wider work environment.

Deborah Layde, Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity

PSS will be recruiting a part time project manager with proven experience in the fishing sector to support this project.