The perception of fishers of the safety and health risks at the fishing village of Marsaxlokk

Abstract

The objective of this study was to highlight the health and safety hazards as well as the accidents, injuries and diseases faced by a sample of Maltese fishers and to provide recommendations for improving safety in the Maltese fishing industry. Qualitative research involving 14 fishers was carried out. Semi-structured interviews with the fishers were performed recorded and analysed. Similar to fishers in other countries, the fishers interviewed, faced a number of risks during their work, arising from the fishing operation and the working environment, as well as the machinery used. Risks resulted in accidents such as falls on the vessel and overboard; injuries, such as finger amputations; and health problems such as musculoskeletal disorders. Local legislation concerning fishing vessels provides a framework safeguarding the health and safety of workers in the Maltese fishing sector. The use of safety equipment has helped the fishers interviewed to avoid risks. However, fishers require more training in order to reduce the numerous risks in their work.