NIOSH Alert: Request for Assistance in Preventing Drownings of CommercialFishermen

摘要

The prevention of drowning of commercial fishermen was discussed, especiallycommercial fishing in Alaska. The need for commercial fishermen to wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) while engaged in their occupational tasks was emphasized. Statistics indicated that 63% of those fishermen wearing PFDs at the time they fell overboard or jumped into the water survived their ordeal, whereas only 12% of those not wearing such PFDs survived. In 1991 through 1993 the fatality rate for commercial fishermen in Alaska was 195 deaths per 100,000 workers. Of those who died during this period of time, 91% drowned or were presumed to have drowned. Several recommendations were made to improve the safety for these workers including the use of safety lines, installation or extension of guard rails, keeping decks clean and clear, and using liberal amounts of nonskid materials on deck. Manufacturers were encouraged to promote the development and use of PFDs that are comfortable to use and easy to work in.