Generic Fishing Vessel

A generic fishing vessel should be defined in order to describe the function, features, characteristics and attributes, which are common to all ships of the type, or relevant to the problem under study (MSC (1998a)). The generic vessel facilitates an understanding of the subject under study and can be used to help identify relevant accidents and accident sub- categories, leading to an enhancement of the HAZID structuring.

The description of the generic fishing vessel can be divided into several aspects as seen inFigure 5.6 and explained as follows: Power~Propulsion – Auxiliary power of fishing vessels is normally provided by two or more diesel-electric generator sets or possibly main engine driven alternators on smaller vessels. Power distribution is by series switchboards, distribution panels and cabling systems.

Emergency power sources are normally battery based. Medium speed engines (via a reduction gearing system) normally provide the propulsion power. Bunkering – Bunkering operation is normally undertaken with manual connection of fuel from shore to a receptor on the vessel. Fuel used for fishing vessels has a flash point of no less than 43 degrees Celsius.

Communications – These are pre-dominantly external communication components, whicconsist of VHF, MF, HF and Satcom systems with EPIRBs (Emergency Position IndicatinRadio Beacon) and SARTs (Search and Rescue Transponder) for emergencies. Larger deepsea fishing vessels have internal communication components such as the public address systemand telephone system to particular crew or operational area. Control – This covers the control of the entire ship. The bridge or wheelhouse is generally thcentral and often the only control centre on fishing vessels.

The bridge has facilities for around vision, communication, navigation, safety and ship control equipment. The maimachinery spaces are periodically manned (during manoeuvring) and unmanned during fishinoperations. Local control positions are available for all fishing gear with some limited remotcontrols on the bridge.

Emergency response/control – The fishing vessel is expected to be equipped to react temergencies such as rescue from water (either man overboard or third parties). Most vessecarry on board first-aid kits to administer first aid in case of an accident.
Habitable environment – The crew of the fishing vessel are provided with a habitablenvironment. This may require consideration of ship motion, noise, vibration, ventilationtemperature and humidity. Most accommodation areas of the vessel are provided with intakand exhaust blowers. Where there is an engine control room fitted, it is provided with an aconditioning system as with the navigation bridge.

Manoeuvring – Fishing vessels do not particularly need an accurate and sensitive manoeuvrinsystem. However, when carrying out pair trawling (where two or more vessels aremovinclosely together), it could be vital to avoid collisions and contacts. Rudders are used witconventional propeller propulsion systems. There are usually no bow or stem thrusters fitteon fishing vessels.