Improper Use Of Work Equipment Leads To Injuries In Fish Farming Operations

Key Findings

1. Misuse of Equipment
   • In both cases, a net cleaner, intended for cleaning purposes, was improperly used to lift fish farming cages. This misuse exposed crew members to significant risk, leading to injuries during repair activities.
2. Regulatory Guidelines
   • According to NMA’s Regulations on Safety Management and the HSE Regulations, work equipment should only be used for its intended function.
   • Section 4-3(4) mandates that equipment must be used strictly for designated tasks to mitigate safety risks.
   • Any alternative use of equipment requires a thorough risk assessment and documented safety measures.

Safety Recommendations

1. Strict Adherence to Equipment Purpose
   • Companies, shipmasters, and crew members must ensure that all equipment is used according to supplier recommendations and risk assessments. Using equipment beyond its designed function should be avoided unless a comprehensive risk evaluation deems it safe.
2. Regular Risk Assessments and Crew Involvement
   • Conduct risk assessments whenever new equipment or technology is introduced. Involve crew members in procedure updates, creating checklists, and hazard evaluations to maintain a safe operational environment.
3. Training and Familiarisation
   • Ensure that crew members receive adequate training on safe equipment use. Regular familiarisation sessions help reinforce proper operational standards.

Regulatory Highlights

1. Regulations on Safety Management (2016)
   • Section 2 mandates defining roles and responsibilities that impact safety and the environment.
2. HSE Regulations (2005)
   • Section 2-2: Identifying hazards and documenting risk assessments is mandatory. Any identified risk must be mitigated to protect crew health and safety.
3. Definitions from Section 4-2 and Usage Restrictions (Section 4-3)
   • Work equipment definitions are clarified under Section 4-2, covering machinery and tools for work operations.
   • Sections 4-3(3) and (4) highlight that if equipment poses a safety hazard, necessary measures to limit risk must be taken, and equipment should only be used for its intended purpose.

The NMA emphasizes that safety in fish farming operations—and maritime activities at large—depends on using work equipment as intended. To prevent accidents, companies must enforce compliance with regulatory standards, prioritize crew safety, and invest in regular training and risk assessments.