Handling & Processing Fish
- Fishermen should be familiar with the proper handling of different species of fish to avoid hand injuries from teeth or sharp spines – especially when gutting, washing and stowing. Injuries are common when handling and processing the fish catch. Treat all injuries quickly.
- Take measures to reduce slips, trips and falls by regularly hosing down decks and other areas to remove fish slime.
- Good posture and efficient organization of work areas can help prevent back, neck, and arm strains and other injuries caused by throwing and handling fish. Develop the necessary safe work procedures.
- Where fish is packed in bins, the bins should be stepped and stowed so that the accidental collapse of the bins under any sea conditions is prevented. When fish is being stowed in a fish hold, always maintain a clear unrestricted access to the bilge wells. Also maintained easy access to an escape from the hold. Adequate and correct protective clothing should be worn when working in fish holds. Ladders in fish holds should be securely attached to the hold.
- Be aware of stability when taking fish on board – keep the vessel trimmed. Always securely stow gear, lines, and equipment. If fish are loaded on deck, make sure the load is secured.
- Never leave filleting machinery running while unattended, or try unblocking machine while running.
Safe use of knives
Knives and other sharp implements should always be treated with respect and handled with care.
- Don’t leave them lying around working areas where someone may accidentally be cut. Don’t mix in with other items for cleaning – clean individually and store in a safe place. Knives should be kept tidily in secure racks or sheaths when not in use.
- The handles of knives should be securely fixed and as much as possible, be kept clean and free from fish slime. The cutting edges should be kept clean and sharp. Angle the knife blade away from the work (and away from the fingers!). A falling knife should be left to fall, not grabbed. Keep knives sharp. Don’t lift baskets or bins of fish while holding a knife.
- Always use a sharp knife when chopping bait. Wear close-fitting gloves that allow good movement. Tilt the blade away from you when cutting. If you do get cut, get it treated!
- Do not stab knife into the chopping board as your hand may slip down onto the blade.
