The Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) is committed to ensuring safe and healthy working and living conditions aboard fishing vessels. In 2024, the ILT provided information on this aboard non-certification-required cutters. Through inspections on these seagoing fishing vessels, compliance with the C188 convention, which outlines the regulations on working conditions aboard, was checked.
Inspections of 34 fishing vessels revealed that a large portion still does not meet the required standards. When the C188 convention is not or insufficiently adhered to, situations can arise where fishermen or the ship are uninsured. To eliminate unnecessary risks, the ILT will also take enforcement action in 2025 if ships do not comply with the rules.
During the 34 inspections in 2024, all cutters were found to have sufficient safety equipment (PPE) on board. Medical supplies for crew members were also more than adequate. Additionally, all ship certificates were in order, and crew members were entitled to repatriation in case of an accident at sea.
Medical Examinations and Certificates of Competence
Improvement is needed regarding the compliance of keeping work and rest hours records and setting up a work schedule for the crew. Only one captain met the requirements. In many cases, the crew list was not updated or a copy of the crew list was shared with the shore before departure. Inspectors also observed that 15 of the 34 cutters did not have the required crew documents in order. This includes medical examinations and certificates of competence. In some cases, liability insurance and social insurance for crew members were missing.
Reducing Risks, Increasing Safety
Of the 34 cutters, 25 maintain a so-called Risk Inventory and Evaluation approach (RI&E). This is an important step to enhance safety and awareness aboard. The RI&E outlines the health and safety risks associated with working aboard. It includes an action plan describing the measures fishermen take to reduce the risk of accidents or incidents.
Long working hours and heavy administrative burdens are part of daily life for fishermen. The C188 is not intended as an additional burden but replaces many old conventions. Compliance is crucial to ensure and, if necessary, improve the quality of working and living conditions aboard. Moreover, a good record of work and rest hours provides certainty in insurance matters and legal proceedings. A correct administration is also considered by the judge in case of an accident or dispute.
Why the C188 Convention Helps Fishermen
The C188 convention is the Work in Fishing Convention of the International Labour Organization (ILO). The C188 convention replaces all old conventions on working conditions in the fishing industry. All seagoing fishing vessels must ensure that living and working conditions comply with the C188 convention rules. Depending on sailing days, ship length, and sailing area, a C188 certificate may also be required.
The C188 convention is designed to protect fishermen worldwide. It ensures that fishermen have a safe and healthy working environment, with fair working conditions, sufficient rest, and good living conditions aboard. This not only provides security for fishermen and shipowners but also helps keep the sector sustainable and attractive for new generations of fishermen.