A recent study led by Su-Hyung Kim from the Training Ship at Pukyong National University in Busan has shed light on the alarming rate of accidents involving small fishing vessels in the Korean Sea area. With fishing being one of the most perilous occupations globally, the research highlights that fishing vessel accidents are significantly deadlier than those involving merchant ships, with an estimated 32,000 fatalities annually. This staggering statistic underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures in the fishing industry.
The study focuses specifically on small fishing vessels, which account for 81% of all fishing boats and are often unregulated due to their size, typically under 12 meters. These vessels frequently lack adequate navigation, communication equipment, and proper safety training, which contributes to their high accident rates. Despite ongoing safety training initiatives, the number of accidents has not decreased, prompting researchers to investigate the underlying human elements contributing to these incidents.
Using a quantitative approach, Kim and his team conducted a fault tree analysis, identifying key indirect factors that influence human error in fishing vessel accidents. They found that ship factors, people factors, and onboard organization significantly impacted the likelihood of accidents. Notably, personal negligence emerged as the most significant secondary factor affecting the human element. The study revealed that addressing the top three indirect factors—personal negligence, aging equipment, and harsh natural conditions—could potentially reduce accidents caused by human error by over 15%.
Kim stated, “Focusing solely on fishermen’s behavior through safety training may no longer be the most effective approach. Instead, prioritizing improvements in high-occurrence indirect factors, such as repairing aging vessels and improving working conditions, is considered to be a more effective method to selectively prevent fishing vessel accidents.”
The findings present commercial opportunities for various sectors within the maritime industry. Equipment manufacturers could see increased demand for modern navigation and communication technologies tailored for small fishing vessels. Additionally, companies providing training programs could pivot their offerings to emphasize practical safety measures and maintenance procedures rather than general safety training alone.
Moreover, the study advocates for the development of enforceable safety policies, such as marking hazardous zones and mandating the use of safety gear. This creates a pathway for regulatory bodies and maritime organizations to collaborate on improving safety standards in the fishing industry, ultimately leading to a decrease in accidents and fatalities.
The research, published in the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, serves as a critical resource for maritime professionals looking to enhance safety protocols and reduce risks associated with fishing vessel operations. By addressing the indirect factors identified in the study, stakeholders can work towards creating a safer working environment for fishermen and minimizing the tragic loss of life in this vital industry.
