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National 111/01
1 October 2001

NEW DRAFT FISHING CODE FOR 15 TO 24 METRE
FISHING VESSELS GOES OUT TO CONSULTATION

The Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) announced today that the Draft Code of Safe Working Practice for the Construction and use of 15 m length overall (LOA) to less than 24 m registered (RL) Fishing Vessels goes out to consultation on the 28 September 2001.

Requirements for fishing vessels change in November 2002. Following agreement with industry representatives, it is anticipated to place the Code on the statute books in the spring and for it to come into force when the EC Directive takes effect.

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The new Code is designed to help reduce loss and to focus the operator's minds on safety issues.
Alan Cubbin, Director of Maritime Safety and Pollution Prevention at the MCA, said in launching the draft Code: " This is the first update of the Regulations for over 25 years. Despite encouraging signs recently that an increased focus on the operator assessing risks for fishing activities are having some effect in reducing accidents, the fishing industry remains a hazardous occupation. The new Code, therefore, is positive step forward. Whilst continuing to work closely with industry representatives who have developed the Code, the MCA are now seeking the views of the fishing industry and other organisations with an interest at large. Registered owners/agents will receive their own copy of the draft Code and we welcome their comments no later than Friday 11 January 2002.

" The new Code is designed to help reduce loss and to focus the operator's minds on safety issues. We remain determined to continue working with the industry and amongst fishing communities to improve safety standards. We are also committed to raising awareness of safety issues such as the importance of donning lifejackets, adequate and appropriate maintenance of vessels and equipment.

As part of this drive, the MCA are holding road shows around the coast to present and discuss the draft Code and allow fishermen to have their say on the proposal. The first two are to be held at the Fishermen's Mission in Brixham on Friday 5 October at 10:00 am and the Fishermen's Mission in Newlyn on the 18 October, also starting at 10:00 - everyone is welcome.

The main points of the Code are:

1. It will apply to vessels of 15 metres (LOA) length overall (to align with European requirements) to under 24 metres registered length (RL). Approximately 60 vessels will come under the Small Vessel Code and new checklists are in preparation for this.

2. The frequency of safety certificate renewal surveys will be changed from 4 to 5 years to align with the practice in other MCA Safety Codes. This is useful for vessels that are also certified under other Codes.

3. A mandatory mid-term inspection will be introduced (between 24 - 36 months) increasing the number of occasions when owners must invite the MCA on board for safety checks and thus encouraging owners to comply at all times.

4. A new annual safety declaration by owners, increased safety checks and more user friendly requirements will further encourage owners to focus on safety and maintain the risk assessment.

5. There is an opportunity for owners to reduce costs by preparing for survey/inspection with consequent reduction in survey fees that are charged by the hour.

6. The Code will be introduced through a Statutory Instrument.