Public comment sought on Man Overboard Code of Practice
Issue Date: - Monday, 31 August 2009
WA's Commission for Occupational Safety and Health has called for public comment on a proposed code of practice on "man overboard" for the commercial fishing industry.
The draft code outlines ways in which to address the risks associated with accidental falls from commercial fishing vessels, and covers both the prevention of falls and the emergency responses if a man overboard incident occurs.
Commission Chair Tony Cooke said today that commercial fishing had traditionally been a high risk occupation.
"There have been 44 deaths from a range of causes in the WA fishing industry since 1988, a tragic toll by any measure," Mr Cooke said.
"This code has been developed in response to the deaths arising from man overboard incidents, along with recommendations made by the State Coroner in his report on a death in 2006.
"Man overboard deaths in WA fall into two categories – those that no-one sees such as when a person is alone on deck, and falls that happen when a person is in the course of their work.
"As in any area of workplace safety and health, it is always better to have preventative measures in place, which requires an assessment of the risks and implementation of measures to prevent falls as far as is practicable.
"But if an incident does take place, it is critical that safety measures are in place so an immediate alert is raised and there is a quick and effective system in place to rescue the person who has fallen overboard.
"This includes having effective emergency equipment at hand and ensuring that everyone on board is adequately trained and knows what to do if an emergency does arise.
"An impressive array of safety products is available these days, from inflatable personal flotation devices to man overboard alarm systems and personal beacons, and these should be considered on vessels where a risk assessment has indicated that they would reduce the risks.
"I urge anyone with an interest in the commercial fishing industry to have a look at the draft code and submit any comments or suggestions. Comments can make a valuable contribution to the safety and health of Western Australian workers."
The draft Code of Practice on Man Overboard was developed by the tripartite Commission for Occupational Safety and Health, which includes representatives of government, employers and unions. The WA Fishing Industry Council also played an important role in the development of the code.
Codes of practice are aimed at providing practical guidance on ways of complying with occupational safety and health laws. Workplaces should follow codes of practice relevant to them and have applicable codes available in the workplace at all times.
Comments on the draft code can be submitted in person or via post, e-mail or fax, and the closing date for submissions is November 27.
Copies of the draft Code of Practice on Man Overboard can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 9327 8777 or on the website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.