Safety & Training
Building safer workplaces for commercial fishers
Commercial fishing has historically been considered one of the world’s most hazardous occupations. However, thanks to years of enhanced regulation, proactive safety management and comprehensive training, the industry has made significant strides in improving workplace safety.
Today, safety is the foremost priority for vessel owners and skippers. Ongoing, practical training is essential to fostering a culture of safety and ensuring that every crew member is equipped to respond effectively in any situation.
To support this, WAFIC has a dedicated safety and training resource focused on monitoring developments, sharing best practices and keeping members informed.
Strengthening safety through collaboration
WAFIC works closely with key stakeholders, including the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Seafood Industry Australia, and WorkSafe WA to ensure that safety standards continue to evolve and improve.
Each month, WAFIC distributes a targeted ‘safety update’ to commercial fishers across Western Australia to help them:
- Develop and maintain safe systems of work aboard vessels and in associated workplaces
- Stay informed about current marine and workplace safety regulations
- Prepare for upcoming changes in safety and training requirements that may affect their operations, and
- Access the latest safety and training news relevant to the fishing and aquaculture sectors.
Understanding workplace safety and marine safety
Workplace Safety involves how vessel owners, skippers, and crew manage health and safety onboard, including the implementation of safety management systems, regular training, safety drills, and emergency procedures. (Note: A fishing vessel is legally considered a workplace.)
You’ll find more information at:
Marine Safety covers vessel construction, survey specifications, licensing (skippers and engineers), life-saving equipment, communication systems, navigation, and emergency protocols.
You’ll find more information at the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA):
- AMSA Connect: 1800 627 484 (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm)
- AMSA website
- Email: [email protected]
- AMSA Facebook
Developing a Safety Management System (SMS)
A well-developed Safety Management System (SMS) is central to maintaining safety onboard. It is a mandatory requirement that outlines procedures to ensure crew members are trained, informed, and prepared for emergencies.
1. Create and maintain an SMS
All commercial fishing vessels, including those under AMSA’s ‘grandfathered’ arrangements, are legally required to have a tailored SMS.
Learn more here:
2. Conduct Regular Emergency Drills
Emergency procedures must be practiced regularly—at least every three months or whenever a new crew member joins. These drills should be logged in the vessel’s logbook to ensure accountability and preparedness.
3. Ensure Electrical Safety
Check your Residual Current Devices (RCDs) mandatory life-saving switches that protect against electrocution. Regular inspections are advised by the State’s energy safety regulator.
4. Prepare Cyclone Contingency Plans
Operators must have robust contingency plans in place for cyclone events to safeguard crew, vessels, and operations.