Understanding the Risk Perception of Commercial Fishermen

Abstract

Commercial fishing is indisputably one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States and the world. Due to the hazardous work conditions such as bad weather, the commercial fishing industry is plagued with high amounts of fatal and non-fatal injuries. Safety training is mandatory, but resources are minimal to none in many areas of the United States. The aim of the research is to understand the risk perception of commercial fishermen. Understanding how commercial fishermen perceive risk can help to tailor safety training opportunities to utilize already limited resources. An increased awareness of hazards in other industries has shown to lower injuries from the specific hazard. Therefore an increased knowledge of the fishermen's perceptions of risk may provide valuable information to industry trainers to provide enhanced educational opportunities and training programs for the fishermen. Qualitative methods in the form of semi-structured interviews were conducted with fourteen commercial fishermen from the gulf coast of Florida and inner outer banks of North Carolina. A quantitative survey covering demographics and fishing experience was included with the interviews. Interviews were transcribed and reviewed using thematic analysis to establish reoccurring themes. Results from the research concluded that commercial fishing have heightened perceptions of risk. The fishermen interviewed were all aware of the high risks associated with their profession. Unfortunately common themes such as inexperienced workers, quotas/regulations, and drug use only increase the high risks. In the future training initiatives need to be focused on creating fishery specific courses, in order to make trainings as relevant to the work environment as possible. Continued research and safety interventions are needed to help lower fatality and injury rates in the commercial fishing industry.