Recognizing that there have been numerous studies in the past regarding commercial fishing vessel safety, the Task Force seeks the industry perspective of the most effective measures to reduce the high number of deaths and vessel losses historically associated with this industry. To this end Captain James Spitzer, Chairman of the Fishing Vessel Casualty Task Force, has asked the Marine Safety Office, Portland, ME to operate this website in order to gather recommendations from commercial fishermen, vessel owners, other maritime professionals and the public at large. Recommendations made will be considered by the Task Force for inclusion in their report. Persons interested in submitting recommendations for consideration by the Task Force should do so as soon as possible but no later than March 1, 1999. The Task Force report project is intended to be completed by early March 1999.
Commercial fishing is inherently dangerous work.
As vessels need to continue to fish while preventive solutions are developed, we ask for your assistance in identifying solutions that will help Prevent accidents, Control accidents as they occur, and finally, help crew members Survive accidents if necessary. Please include your name and contact information in case further information is required.