Currently, offshore fishing activities are playing an increasingly important role in marine economic development.
However, along with the expansion of fishing grounds, prolonged sea presence and high labor intensity also increase the risk of accidents, affecting the health and lives of fishermen.
From that reality, on June 17, the Vietnam Fisheries Trade Union organized a scientific conference to contribute opinions on the content of a summary report on scientific tasks on "Solutions to improve safety and occupational hygiene on offshore fishing vessels under the National Fisheries Trade Unions".
At the Workshop, delegates focused on discussing and contributing opinions to complete the research report on the current situation of working conditions, risk factors and solutions to ensure safety for workers on offshore fishing vessels.
Opinions at the Workshop said that common risks for fishing workers include accidents caused by machinery and equipment for exploitation; slipping and falling on the deck of ships; fire and explosion incidents, collisions; the impact of unfavorable weather and limitations in emergency response skills at sea.
The report also pointed out that fishing labor is currently facing many difficulties such as a shortage of skilled human resources, heavy working conditions, prolonged working hours and limited access to occupational safety training programs.
At the Workshop, experts proposed many important groups of solutions such as: strengthening training and safety skills for crew members; raising fishermen's awareness of risk prevention; improving protective and life-saving equipment; applying science and technology in fishing vessel safety management; and at the same time strengthening the role of trade unions and fishing trade unions in supporting and protecting the rights of workers.
Delegates unanimously agreed that building a synchronous system of solutions on occupational safety and health is of great significance to minimize accidents, protect fishermen's health, and contribute to the development of Vietnamese fisheries in a modern, sustainable and responsible direction.
