Federal Requirements For Commercial Fishing Industry Vessels

In response to a continuing high loss of commercial fishing vessels and crews, the U.S. Congress has mandated development of new safety requirements for the industry. This volume provides a blueprint for an integrated national safety program that responds realistically to industry conditions, with priority on the most cost-effective alternatives. Fishing Vessel Safety addresses the role of the U.S. Coast Guard and the fishing industry and evaluates such safety measures as vessel inspection and registration, and the training and licensing of fishermen. It explores vessel condition, the role of human behavior, the problem of weather prediction, the high cost of insurance, and more.

The use of ice on board smaller fishing vessels is increasing, due to factors such as the growing demand for fresh fish, market globalisation and increased quality controls, and the decrease in near-shore fish resources which forces fisherman to make longer fishing trips and use ice to preserve the freshness of their catch. This publication describes the requirements for the use of ice and chilled seawater on fishing vessels, from small insulated containers in dugout canoes, to refrigerated tanks on bigger vessels.