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C188 - Work in Fishing Convention, 2007 (No. 188)

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Preamble

The General Conference of the International Labour Organization,

Having been convened at Geneva by the Governing Body of the International Labour Office, and having met in its ninety-sixth Session on 30 May 2007, and

Recognizing that globalization has a profound impact on the fishing sector, and

Noting the ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, 1998, and

Taking into consideration the fundamental rights to be found in the following international labour Conventions: the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29), the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87), the Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949 (No. 98), the Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100), the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105), the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111), the Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No. 138), and the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182), and

Noting the relevant instruments of the International Labour Organization, in particular the Occupational Safety and Health Convention (No. 155) and Recommendation (No. 164), 1981, and the Occupational Health Services Convention (No. 161) and Recommendation (No. 171), 1985, and

Noting, in addition, the Social Security (Minimum Standards) Convention, 1952 (No. 102), and considering that the provisions of Article 77 of that Convention should not be an obstacle to protection extended by Members to fishers under social security schemes, and

Recognizing that the International Labour Organization considers fishing as a hazardous occupation when compared to other occupations, and

Noting also Article 1, paragraph 3, of the Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention (Revised), 2003 (No. 185), and

Mindful of the core mandate of the Organization, which is to promote decent conditions of work, and

Mindful of the need to protect and promote the rights of fishers in this regard,and

Recalling the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, 1982, and

Taking into account the need to revise the following international Conventions adopted by the International Labour Conference specifically concerning the fishing sector, namely the Minimum Age (Fishermen) Convention, 1959 (No. 112), the Medical Examination (Fishermen) Convention, 1959 (No. 113), the Fishermen's Articles of Agreement Convention, 1959 (No. 114), and the Accommodation of Crews (Fishermen) Convention, 1966 (No. 126), to bring them up to date and to reach a greater number of the world's fishers, particularly those working on board smaller vessels, and

Noting that the objective of this Convention is to ensure that fishers have decent conditions of work on board fishing vessels with regard to minimum requirements for work on board; conditions of service; accommodation and food; occupational safety and health protection; medical care and social security, and

Having decided upon the adoption of certain proposals with regard to work in the fishing sector, which is the fourth item on the agenda of the session, and

Having determined that these proposals shall take the form of an international Convention;

adopts this fourteenth day of June of the year two thousand and seven the following Convention, which may be cited as the Work in Fishing Convention, 2007.

Part I. Definitions and scope

Definitions

Article 1

For the purposes of the Convention:

  • (a) commercial fishing means all fishing operations, including fishing operations on rivers, lakes or canals, with the exception of subsistence fishing and recreational fishing;
  • (b) competent authority means the minister, government department or other authority having power to issue and enforce regulations, orders or other instructions having the force of law in respect of the subject matter of the provision concerned;
  • (c) consultation means consultation by the competent authority with the representative organizations of employers and workers concerned, and in particular the representative organizations of fishing vessel owners and fishers, where they exist;
  • (d) fishing vessel owner means the owner of the fishing vessel or any other organization or person, such as the manager, agent or bareboat charterer, who has assumed the responsibility for the operation of the vessel from the owner and who, on assuming such responsibility, has agreed to take over the duties and responsibilities imposed on fishing vessel owners in accordance with the Convention, regardless of whether any other organization or person fulfils certain of the duties or responsibilities on behalf of the fishing vessel owner;
  • (e) fisher means every person employed or engaged in any capacity or carrying out an occupation on board any fishing vessel, including persons working on board who are paid on the basis of a share of the catch but excluding pilots, naval personnel, other persons in the permanent service of a government, shore-based persons carrying out work aboard a fishing vessel and fisheries observers;
  • (f) fisher's work agreement means a contract of employment, articles of agreement or other similar arrangements, or any other contract governing a fisher's living and working conditions on board a vessel;
  • (g) fishing vessel or vessel means any ship or boat, of any nature whatsoever, irrespective of the form of ownership, used or intended to be used for the purpose of commercial fishing;
  • (h) gross tonnage means the gross tonnage calculated in accordance with the tonnage measurement regulations contained in Annex I to the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969, or any instrument amending or replacing it;
  • (i) length (L) shall be taken as 96 per cent of the total length on a waterline at 85 per cent of the least moulded depth measured from the keel line, or as the length from the foreside of the stem to the axis of the rudder stock on that waterline, if that be greater. In vessels designed with rake of keel, the waterline on which this length is measured shall be parallel to the designed waterline;
  • (j) length overall (LOA) shall be taken as the distance in a straight line parallel to the designed waterline between the foremost point of the bow and the aftermost point of the stern;
  • (k) recruitment and placement service means any person, company, institution, agency or other organization, in the public or the private sector, which is engaged in recruiting fishers on behalf of, or placing fishers with, fishing vessel owners;
  • (l) skipper means the fisher having command of a fishing vessel.

Scope

Article 2
  1. 1. Except as otherwise provided herein, this Convention applies to all fishers and all fishing vessels engaged in commercial fishing operations.
  2. 2. In the event of doubt as to whether a vessel is engaged in commercial fishing, the question shall be determined by the competent authority after consultation.
  3. 3. Any Member, after consultation, may extend, in whole or in part, to fishers working on smaller vessels the protection provided in this Convention for fishers working on vessels of 24 metres in length and over.
Article 3
  1. 1. Where the application of the Convention raises special problems of a substantial nature in the light of the particular conditions of service of the fishers or of the fishing vessels' operations concerned, a Member may, after consultation, exclude from the requirements of this Convention, or from certain of its provisions:
    • (a) fishing vessels engaged in fishing operations in rivers, lakes or canals;
    • (b) limited categories of fishers or fishing vessels.
  2. 2. In case of exclusions under the preceding paragraph, and where practicable, the competent authority shall take measures, as appropriate, to extend progressively the requirements under this Convention to the categories of fishers and fishing vessels concerned.
  3. 3. Each Member which ratifies this Convention shall:
    • (a) in its first report on the application of this Convention submitted under article 22 of the Constitution of the International Labour Organisation:
      • (i) list any categories of fishers or fishing vessels excluded under paragraph 1;
      • (ii) give the reasons for any such exclusions, stating the respective positions of the representative organizations of employers and workers concerned, in particular the representative organizations of fishing vessel owners and fishers, where they exist; and
      • (iii) describe any measures taken to provide equivalent protection to the excluded categories; and
    • (b) in subsequent reports on the application of the Convention, describe any measures taken in accordance with paragraph 2.
Article 4
  1. 1. Where it is not immediately possible for a Member to implement all of the measures provided for in this Convention owing to special problems of a substantial nature in the light of insufficiently developed infrastructure or institutions, the Member may, in accordance with a plan drawn up in consultation, progressively implement all or some of the following provisions:
    • (a) Article 10, paragraph 1;
    • (b) Article 10, paragraph 3, in so far as it applies to vessels remaining at sea for more than three days;
    • (c) Article 15;
    • (d) Article 20;
    • (e) Article 33; and
    • (f) Article 38.
  2. 2. Paragraph 1 does not apply to fishing vessels which: (a) are 24 metres in length and over; or
    • (b) remain at sea for more than seven days; or
    • (c) normally navigate at a distance exceeding 200 nautical miles from the coastline of the flag State or navigate beyond the outer edge of its continental shelf, whichever distance from the coastline is greater; or
    • (d) are subject to port State control as provided for in Article 43 of this Convention, except where port State control arises through a situation of force majeure,

nor to fishers working on such vessels.

  1. 3. Each Member which avails itself of the possibility afforded in paragraph 1 shall:
    • (a) in its first report on the application of this Convention submitted under article 22 of the Constitution of the International Labour Organisation:
      • (i) indicate the provisions of the Convention to be progressively implemented;
      • (ii) explain the reasons and state the respective positions of representative organizations of employers and workers concerned, and in particular the representative organizations of fishing vessel owners and fishers, where they exist; and
      • (iii) describe the plan for progressive implementation; and
    • (b) in subsequent reports on the application of this Convention, describe measures taken with a view to giving effect to all of the provisions of the Convention.
Article 5
  1. 1. For the purpose of this Convention, the competent authority, after consultation, may decide to use length overall (LOA) in place of length (L) as the basis for measurement, in accordance with the equivalence set out in Annex I. In addition, for the purpose of the paragraphs specified in Annex III of this Convention, the competent authority, after consultation, may decide to use gross tonnage in place of length (L) or length overall (LOA) as the basis for measurement in accordance with the equivalence set out in Annex III.
  2. 2. In the reports submitted under article 22 of the Constitution, the Member shall communicate the reasons for the decision taken under this Article and any comments arising from the consultation.

Part II. General principles

Implementation

Article 6
  1. 1. Each Member shall implement and enforce laws, regulations or other measures that it has adopted to fulfil its commitments under this Convention with respect to fishers and fishing vessels under its jurisdiction. Other measures may include collective agreements, court decisions, arbitration awards, or other means consistent with national law and practice.
  2. 2. Nothing in this Convention shall affect any law, award or custom, or any agreement between fishing vessel owners and fishers, which ensures more favourable conditions than those provided for in this Convention.

Competent authority and coordination

Article 7

Each Member shall:

  • (a) designate the competent authority or authorities; and
  • (b) establish mechanisms for coordination among relevant authorities for the fishing sector at the national and local levels, as appropriate, and define their functions and responsibilities, taking into account their complementarities and national conditions and practice.

Responsibilities of fishing vessel owners, skippers and fishers

Article 8
  1. 1. The fishing vessel owner has the overall responsibility to ensure that the skipper is provided with the necessary resources and facilities to comply with the obligations of this Convention.
  2. 2. The skipper has the responsibility for the safety of the fishers on board and the safe operation of the vessel, including but not limited to the following areas:
    • (a) providing such supervision as will ensure that, as far as possible, fishers perform their work in the best conditions of safety and health;
    • (b) managing the fishers in a manner which respects safety and health, including prevention of fatigue;
    • (c) facilitating on-board occupational safety and health awareness training; and
    • (d) ensuring compliance with safety of navigation, watchkeeping and associated good seamanship standards.
  3. 3. The skipper shall not be constrained by the fishing vessel owner from taking any decision which, in the professional judgement of the skipper, is necessary for the safety of the vessel and its safe navigation and safe operation, or the safety of the fishers on board.
  4. 4. Fishers shall comply with the lawful orders of the skipper and applicable safety and health measures.

Part III. Minimum requirements for work on board fishing vessels

Minimum age

Article 9
  1. 1. The minimum age for work on board a fishing vessel shall be 16 years. However, the competent authority may authorize a minimum age of 15 for persons who are no longer subject to compulsory schooling as provided by national legislation, and who are engaged in vocational training in fishing.
  2. 2. The competent authority, in accordance with national laws and practice, may authorize persons of the age of 15 to perform light work during school holidays. In such cases, it shall determine, after consultation, the kinds of work permitted and shall prescribe the conditions in which such work shall be undertaken and the periods of rest required.
  3. 3. The minimum age for assignment to activities on board fishing vessels, which by their nature or the circumstances in which they are carried out are likely to jeopardize the health, safety or morals of young persons, shall not be less than 18 years.
  4. 4. The types of activities to which paragraph 3 of this Article applies shall be determined by national laws or regulations, or by the competent authority, after consultation, taking into account the risks concerned and the applicable international standards.
  5. 5. The performance of the activities referred to in paragraph 3 of this Article as from the age of 16 may be authorized by national laws or regulations, or by decision of the competent authority, after consultation, on condition that the health, safety and morals of the young persons concerned are fully protected and that the young persons concerned have received adequate specific instruction or vocational training and have completed basic pre-sea safety training.
  6. 6. The engagement of fishers under the age of 18 for work at night shall be prohibited. For the purpose of this Article, "night" shall be defined in accordance with national law and practice. It shall cover a period of at least nine hours starting no later than midnight and ending no earlier than 5 a.m. An exception to strict compliance with the night work restriction may be made by the competent authority when:
    • (a) the effective training of the fishers concerned, in accordance with established programmes and schedules, would be impaired; or
    • (b) the specific nature of the duty or a recognized training programme requires that fishers covered by the exception perform duties at night and the authority determines, after consultation, that the work will not have a detrimental impact on their health or well-being.
  7. 7. Nothing in this Article shall affect any obligations assumed by the Member arising from the ratification of any other international labour Convention.

Medical examination

Article 10
  1. 1. No fishers shall work on board a fishing vessel without a valid medical certificate attesting to fitness to perform their duties.
  2. 2. The competent authority, after consultation, may grant exemptions from the application of paragraph 1 of this Article, taking into account the safety and health of fishers, size of the vessel, availability of medical assistance and evacuation, duration of the voyage, area of operation, and type of fishing operation.
  3. 3. The exemptions in paragraph 2 of this Article shall not apply to a fisher working on a fishing vessel of 24 metres in length and over or which normally remains at sea for more than three days. In urgent cases, the competent authority may permit a fisher to work on such a vessel for a period of a limited and specified duration until a medical certificate can be obtained, provided that the fisher is in possession of an expired medical certificate of a recent date.
Article 11

Each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures providing for:

  • (a) the nature of medical examinations;
  • (b) the form and content of medical certificates;
  • (c) the issue of a medical certificate by a duly qualified medical practitioner or, in the case of a certificate solely concerning eyesight, by a person recognized by the competent authority as qualified to issue such a certificate; these persons shall enjoy full independence in exercising their professional judgement;
  • (d) the frequency of medical examinations and the period of validity of medical certificates;
  • (e) the right to a further examination by a second independent medical practitioner in the event that a person has been refused a certificate or has had limitations imposed on the work he or she may perform; and
  • (f) other relevant requirements.
Article 12

In addition to the requirements set out in Article 10 and Article 11, on a fishing vessel of 24 metres in length and over, or on a vessel which normally remains at sea for more than three days:

  1. 1. The medical certificate of a fisher shall state, at a minimum, that:
    • (a) the hearing and sight of the fisher concerned are satisfactory for the fisher's duties on the vessel; and
    • (b) the fisher is not suffering from any medical condition likely to be aggravated by service at sea or to render the fisher unfit for such service or to endanger the safety or health of other persons on board.
  2. 2. The medical certificate shall be valid for a maximum period of two years unless the fisher is under the age of 18, in which case the maximum period of validity shall be one year.
  3. 3. If the period of validity of a certificate expires in the course of a voyage, the certificate shall remain in force until the end of that voyage.

Part IV. Conditions of service

Manning and hours of rest

Article 13

Each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures requiring that owners of fishing vessels flying its flag ensure that:

  • (a) their vessels are sufficiently and safely manned for the safe navigation and operation of the vessel and under the control of a competent skipper; and
  • (b) fishers are given regular periods of rest of sufficient length to ensure safety and health.
Article 14
  1. 1. In addition to the requirements set out in Article 13, the competent authority shall:
    • (a) for vessels of 24 metres in length and over, establish a minimum level of manning for the safe navigation of the vessel, specifying the number and the qualifications of the fishers required;
    • (b) for fishing vessels regardless of size remaining at sea for more than three days, after consultation and for the purpose of limiting fatigue, establish the minimum hours of rest to be provided to fishers. Minimum hours of rest shall not be less than:
      • (i) ten hours in any 24-hour period; and
      • (ii) 77 hours in any seven-day period.
  2. 2. The competent authority may permit, for limited and specified reasons, temporary exceptions to the limits established in paragraph 1(b) of this Article. However, in such circumstances, it shall require that fishers shall receive compensatory periods of rest as soon as practicable.
  3. 3. The competent authority, after consultation, may establish alternative requirements to those in paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Article. However, such alternative requirements shall be substantially equivalent and shall not jeopardize the safety and health of the fishers.
  4. 4. Nothing in this Article shall be deemed to impair the right of the skipper of a vessel to require a fisher to perform any hours of work necessary for the immediate safety of the vessel, the persons on board or the catch, or for the purpose of giving assistance to other boats or ships or persons in distress at sea. Accordingly, the skipper may suspend the schedule of hours of rest and require a fisher to perform any hours of work necessary until the normal situation has been restored. As soon as practicable after the normal situation has been restored, the skipper shall ensure that any fishers who have performed work in a scheduled rest period are provided with an adequate period of rest.

Crew list

Article 15

Every fishing vessel shall carry a crew list, a copy of which shall be provided to authorized persons ashore prior to departure of the vessel, or communicated ashore immediately after departure of the vessel. The competent authority shall determine to whom and when such information shall be provided and for what purpose or purposes.

Fisher's work agreement

Article 16

Each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures:

  • (a) requiring that fishers working on vessels flying its flag have the protection of a fisher's work agreement that is comprehensible to them and is consistent with the provisions of this Convention; and
  • (b) specifying the minimum particulars to be included in fishers' work agreements in accordance with the provisions contained in Annex II.
Article 17

Each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures regarding:

  • (a) procedures for ensuring that a fisher has an opportunity to review and seek advice on the terms of the fisher's work agreement before it is concluded;
  • (b) where applicable, the maintenance of records concerning the fisher's work under such an agreement; and
  • (c) the means of settling disputes in connection with a fisher's work agreement.
Article 18

The fisher's work agreement, a copy of which shall be provided to the fisher, shall be carried on board and be available to the fisher and, in accordance with national law and practice, to other concerned parties on request.

Article 19

Articles 16 to 18 and Annex II do not apply to a fishing vessel owner who is also single-handedly operating the vessel.

Article 20

It shall be the responsibility of the fishing vessel owner to ensure that each fisher has a written fisher's work agreement signed by both the fisher and the fishing vessel owner or by an authorized representative of the fishing vessel owner (or, where fishers are not employed or engaged by the fishing vessel owner, the fishing vessel owner shall have evidence of contractual or similar arrangements) providing decent work and living conditions on board the vessel as required by this Convention.

Repatriation

Article 21
  1. 1. Members shall ensure that fishers on a fishing vessel that flies their flag and that enters a foreign port are entitled to repatriation in the event that the fisher's work agreement has expired or has been terminated for justified reasons by the fisher or by the fishing vessel owner, or the fisher is no longer able to carry out the duties required under the work agreement or cannot be expected to carry them out in the specific circumstances. This also applies to fishers from that vessel who are transferred for the same reasons from the vessel to the foreign port.
  2. 2. The cost of the repatriation referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article shall be borne by the fishing vessel owner, except where the fisher has been found, in accordance with national laws, regulations or other measures, to be in serious default of his or her work agreement obligations.
  3. 3. Members shall prescribe, by means of laws, regulations or other measures, the precise circumstances entitling a fisher covered by paragraph 1 of this Article to repatriation, the maximum duration of service periods on board following which a fisher is entitled to repatriation, and the destinations to which fishers may be repatriated.
  4. 4. If a fishing vessel owner fails to provide for the repatriation referred to in this Article, the Member whose flag the vessel flies shall arrange for the repatriation of the fisher concerned and shall be entitled to recover the cost from the fishing vessel owner.
  5. 5. National laws and regulations shall not prejudice any right of the fishing vessel owner to recover the cost of repatriation under third party contractual agreements.

Recruitment and placement

Article 22
Recruitment and placement of fishers
  1. 1. Each Member that operates a public service providing recruitment and placement for fishers shall ensure that the service forms part of, or is coordinated with, a public employment service for all workers and employers.
  2. 2. Any private service providing recruitment and placement for fishers which operates in the territory of a Member shall do so in conformity with a standardized system of licensing or certification or other form of regulation, which shall be established, maintained or modified only after consultation.
  3. 3. Each Member shall, by means of laws, regulations or other measures:
    • (a) prohibit recruitment and placement services from using means, mechanisms or lists intended to prevent or deter fishers from engaging for work;
    • (b) require that no fees or other charges for recruitment or placement of fishers be borne directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, by the fisher; and
    • (c) determine the conditions under which any licence, certificate or similar authorization of a private recruitment or placement service may be suspended or withdrawn in case of violation of relevant laws or regulations; and specify the conditions under which private recruitment and placement services can operate.
Private employment agencies
  1. 4. A Member which has ratified the Private Employment Agencies Convention, 1997 (No. 181), may allocate certain responsibilities under this Convention to private employment agencies that provide the services referred to in paragraph 1(b) of Article 1 of that Convention. The respective responsibilities of any such private employment agencies and of the fishing vessel owners, who shall be the "user enterprise" for the purpose of that Convention, shall be determined and allocated, as provided for in Article 12 of that Convention. Such a Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures to ensure that no allocation of the respective responsibilities or obligations to the private employment agencies providing the service and to the "user enterprise" pursuant to this Convention shall preclude the fisher from asserting a right to a lien arising against the fishing vessel.
  2. 5. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 4, the fishing vessel owner shall be liable in the event that the private employment agency defaults on its obligations to a fisher for whom, in the context of the Private Employment Agencies Convention, 1997 (No. 181), the fishing vessel owner is the "user enterprise".
  3. 6. Nothing in this Convention shall be deemed to impose on a Member the obligation to allow the operation in its fishing sector of private employment agencies as referred to in paragraph 4 of this Article.

Payment of fishers

Article 23

Each Member, after consultation, shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures providing that fishers who are paid a wage are ensured a monthly or other regular payment.

Article 24

Each Member shall require that all fishers working on board fishing vessels shall be given a means to transmit all or part of their payments received, including advances, to their families at no cost.

Part V. Accommodation and food

Article 25

Each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures for fishing vessels that fly its flag with respect to accommodation, food and potable water on board.

Article 26

Each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures requiring that accommodation on board fishing vessels that fly its flag shall be of sufficient size and quality and appropriately equipped for the service of the vessel and the length of time fishers live on board. In particular, such measures shall address, as appropriate, the following issues:

  • (a) approval of plans for the construction or modification of fishing vessels in respect of accommodation;
  • (b) maintenance of accommodation and galley spaces with due regard to hygiene and overall safe, healthy and comfortable conditions;
  • (c) ventilation, heating, cooling and lighting;
  • (d) mitigation of excessive noise and vibration;
  • (e) location, size, construction materials, furnishing and equipping of sleeping rooms, mess rooms and other accommodation spaces;
  • (f) sanitary facilities, including toilets and washing facilities, and supply of sufficient hot and cold water; and
  • (g) procedures for responding to complaints concerning accommodation that does not meet the requirements of this Convention.
Article 27

Each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures requiring that:

  • (a) the food carried and served on board be of a sufficient nutritional value, quality and quantity;
  • (b) potable water be of sufficient quality and quantity; and
  • (c) the food and water shall be provided by the fishing vessel owner at no cost to the fisher. However, in accordance with national laws and regulations, the cost can be recovered as an operational cost if the collective agreement governing a share system or a fisher's work agreement so provides.
Article 28
  1. 1. The laws, regulations or other measures to be adopted by the Member in accordance with Articles 25 to 27 shall give full effect to Annex III concerning fishing vessel accommodation. Annex III may be amended in the manner provided for in Article 45.
  2. 2. A Member which is not in a position to implement the provisions of Annex III may, after consultation, adopt provisions in its laws and regulations or other measures which are substantially equivalent to the provisions set out in Annex III, with the exception of provisions related to Article 27.

Part VI. Medical care, health protection and social security

Medical care

Article 29

Each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures requiring that:

  • (a) fishing vessels carry appropriate medical equipment and medical supplies for the service of the vessel, taking into account the number of fishers on board, the area of operation and the length of the voyage;
  • (b) fishing vessels have at least one fisher on board who is qualified or trained in first aid and other forms of medical care and who has the necessary knowledge to use the medical equipment and supplies for the vessel concerned, taking into account the number of fishers on board, the area of operation and the length of the voyage;
  • (c) medical equipment and supplies carried on board be accompanied by instructions or other information in a language and format understood by the fisher or fishers referred to in subparagraph (b);
  • (d) fishing vessels be equipped for radio or satellite communication with persons or services ashore that can provide medical advice, taking into account the area of operation and the length of the voyage; and
  • (e) fishers have the right to medical treatment ashore and the right to be taken ashore in a timely manner for treatment in the event of serious injury or illness.
Article 30

For fishing vessels of 24 metres in length and over, taking into account the number of fishers on board, the area of operation and the duration of the voyage, each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures requiring that:

  • (a) the competent authority prescribe the medical equipment and medical supplies to be carried on board;
  • (b) the medical equipment and medical supplies carried on board be properly maintained and inspected at regular intervals established by the competent authority by responsible persons designated or approved by the competent authority;
  • (c) the vessels carry a medical guide adopted or approved by the competent authority, or the latest edition of the International Medical Guide for Ships;
  • (d) the vessels have access to a prearranged system of medical advice to vessels at sea by radio or satellite communication, including specialist advice, which shall be available at all times;
  • (e) the vessels carry on board a list of radio or satellite stations through which medical advice can be obtained; and
  • (f) to the extent consistent with the Member's national law and practice, medical care while the fisher is on board or landed in a foreign port be provided free of charge to the fisher.

Occupational safety and health and accident prevention

Article 31

Each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures concerning:

  • (a) the prevention of occupational accidents, occupational diseases and work-related risks on board fishing vessels, including risk evaluation and management, training and on-board instruction of fishers;
  • (b) training for fishers in the handling of types of fishing gear they will use and in the knowledge of the fishing operations in which they will be engaged;
  • (c) the obligations of fishing vessel owners, fishers and others concerned, due account being taken of the safety and health of fishers under the age of 18;
  • (d) the reporting and investigation of accidents on board fishing vessels flying its flag; and
  • (e) the setting up of joint committees on occupational safety and health or, after consultation, of other appropriate bodies.
Article 32
  1. 1. The requirements of this Article shall apply to fishing vessels of 24 metres in length and over normally remaining at sea for more than three days and, after consultation, to other vessels, taking into account the number of fishers on board, the area of operation, and the duration of the voyage.
  2. 2. The competent authority shall:
    • (a) after consultation, require that the fishing vessel owner, in accordance with national laws, regulations, collective bargaining agreements and practice, establish on-board procedures for the prevention of occupational accidents, injuries and diseases, taking into account the specific hazards and risks on the fishing vessel concerned; and
    • (b) require that fishing vessel owners, skippers, fishers and other relevant persons be provided with sufficient and suitable guidance, training material, or other appropriate information on how to evaluate and manage risks to safety and health on board fishing vessels.
  3. 3. Fishing vessel owners shall:
    • (a) ensure that every fisher on board is provided with appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment;
    • (b) ensure that every fisher on board has received basic safety training approved by the competent authority; the competent authority may grant written exemptions from this requirement for fishers who have demonstrated equivalent knowledge and experience; and
    • (c) ensure that fishers are sufficiently and reasonably familiarized with equipment and its methods of operation, including relevant safety measures, prior to using the equipment or participating in the operations concerned.
Article 33

Risk evaluation in relation to fishing shall be conducted, as appropriate, with the participation of fishers or their representatives.

Social security

Article 34

Each Member shall ensure that fishers ordinarily resident in its territory, and their dependants to the extent provided in national law, are entitled to benefit from social security protection under conditions no less favourable than those applicable to other workers, including employed and self-employed persons, ordinarily resident in its territory.

Article 35

Each Member shall undertake to take steps, according to national circumstances, to achieve progressively comprehensive social security protection for all fishers who are ordinarily resident in its territory.

Article 36

Members shall cooperate through bilateral or multilateral agreements or other arrangements, in accordance with national laws, regulations or practice:

  • (a) to achieve progressively comprehensive social security protection for fishers, taking into account the principle of equality of treatment irrespective of nationality; and
  • (b) to ensure the maintenance of social security rights which have been acquired or are in the course of acquisition by all fishers regardless of residence.
Article 37

Notwithstanding the attribution of responsibilities in Articles 34, 35 and 36, Members may determine, through bilateral and multilateral agreements and through provisions adopted in the framework of regional economic integration organizations, other rules concerning the social security legislation to which fishers are subject.

Protection in the case of work-related sickness, injury or death

Article 38
  1. 1. Each Member shall take measures to provide fishers with protection, in accordance with national laws, regulations or practice, for work-related sickness, injury or death.
  2. 2. In the event of injury due to occupational accident or disease, the fisher shall have access to:
    • (a) appropriate medical care; and
    • (b) the corresponding compensation in accordance with national laws and regulations.
  3. 3. Taking into account the characteristics within the fishing sector, the protection referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article may be ensured through:
    • (a) a system for fishing vessel owners' liability; or
    • (b) compulsory insurance, workers' compensation or other schemes.
Article 39
  1. 1. In the absence of national provisions for fishers, each Member shall adopt laws, regulations or other measures to ensure that fishing vessel owners are responsible for the provision to fishers on vessels flying its flag, of health protection and medical care while employed or engaged or working on a vessel at sea or in a foreign port. Such laws, regulations or other measures shall ensure that fishing vessel owners are responsible for defraying the expenses of medical care, including related material assistance and support, during medical treatment in a foreign country, until the fisher has been repatriated. 2. National laws or regulations may permit the exclusion of the liability of the fishing vessel owner if the injury occurred otherwise than in the service of the vessel or the sickness or infirmity was concealed during engagement, or the injury or sickness was due to wilful misconduct of the fisher.

Part VII. Compliance and enforcement

Article 40

Each Member shall effectively exercise its jurisdiction and control over vessels that fly its flag by establishing a system for ensuring compliance with the requirements of this Convention including, as appropriate, inspections, reporting, monitoring, complaint procedures, appropriate penalties and corrective measures, in accordance with national laws or regulations.

Article 41
  1. 1. Members shall require that fishing vessels remaining at sea for more than three days, which:
    • (a) are 24 metres in length and over; or
    • (b) normally navigate at a distance exceeding 200 nautical miles from the coastline of the flag State or navigate beyond the outer edge of its continental shelf, whichever distance from the coastline is greater,

carry a valid document issued by the competent authority stating that the vessel has been inspected by the competent authority or on its behalf, for compliance with the provisions of this Convention concerning living and working conditions.

  1. 2. The period of validity of such document may coincide with the period of validity of a national or an international fishing vessel safety certificate, but in no case shall such period of validity exceed five years.
Article 42
  1. 1. The competent authority shall appoint a sufficient number of qualified inspectors to fulfil its responsibilities under Article 41.
  2. 2. In establishing an effective system for the inspection of living and working conditions on board fishing vessels, a Member, where appropriate, may authorize public institutions or other organizations that it recognizes as competent and independent to carry out inspections and issue documents. In all cases, the Member shall remain fully responsible for the inspection and issuance of the related documents concerning the living and working conditions of the fishers on fishing vessels that fly its flag.
Article 43
  1. 1. A Member which receives a complaint or obtains evidence that a fishing vessel that flies its flag does not conform to the requirements of this Convention shall take the steps necessary to investigate the matter and ensure that action is taken to remedy any deficiencies found.
  2. 2. If a Member, in whose port a fishing vessel calls in the normal course of its business or for operational reasons, receives a complaint or obtains evidence that such vessel does not conform to the requirements of this Convention, it may prepare a report addressed to the government of the flag State of the vessel, with a copy to the Director-General of the International Labour Office, and may take measures necessary to rectify any conditions on board which are clearly hazardous to safety or health.
  3. 3. In taking the measures referred to in paragraph 2 of this Article, the Member shall notify forthwith the nearest representative of the flag State and, if possible, shall have such representative present. The Member shall not unreasonably detain or delay the vessel.
  4. 4. For the purpose of this Article, the complaint may be submitted by a fisher, a professional body, an association, a trade union or, generally, any person with an interest in the safety of the vessel, including an interest in safety or health hazards to the fishers on board.
  5. 5. This Article does not apply to complaints which a Member considers to be manifestly unfounded.
Article 44

Each Member shall apply this Convention in such a way as to ensure that the fishing vessels flying the flag of any State that has not ratified this Convention do not receive more favourable treatment than fishing vessels that fly the flag of any Member that has ratified it.

Part VIII. Amendment of Annexes I, II and III

Article 45
  1. 1. Subject to the relevant provisions of this Convention, the International Labour Conference may amend Annexes I, II and III. The Governing Body of the International Labour Office may place an item on the agenda of the Conference regarding proposals for such amendments established by a tripartite meeting of experts. The decision to adopt the proposals shall require a majority of two-thirds of the votes cast by the delegates present at the Conference, including at least half the Members that have ratified this Convention.
  2. 2. Any amendment adopted in accordance with paragraph 1 of this Article shall enter into force six months after the date of its adoption for any Member that has ratified this Convention, unless such Member has given written notice to the Director-General of the International Labour Office that it shall not enter into force for that Member, or shall only enter into force at a later date upon subsequent written notification.

Part IX. Final provisions

Article 46

This Convention revises the Minimum Age (Fishermen) Convention, 1959 (No. 112), the Medical Examination (Fishermen) Convention, 1959 (No. 113), the Fishermen's Articles of Agreement Convention, 1959 (No. 114), and the Accommodation of Crews (Fishermen) Convention, 1966 (No. 126).

Article 47

The formal ratifications of this Convention shall be communicated to the Director-General of the International Labour Office for registration.

Article 48
  1. 1. This Convention shall be binding only upon those Members of the International Labour Organization whose ratifications have been registered with the Director-General of the International Labour Office.
  2. 2. It shall come into force 12 months after the date on which the ratifications of ten Members, eight of which are coastal States, have been registered with the Director-General.
  3. 3. Thereafter, this Convention shall come into force for any Member 12 months after the date on which its ratification is registered.
Article 49
  1. 1. A Member which has ratified this Convention may denounce it after the expiration of ten years from the date on which the Convention first comes into force, by an act communicated to the Director-General of the International Labour Office for registration. Such denunciation shall not take effect until one year after the date on which it is registered.
  2. 2. Each Member which has ratified this Convention and which does not, within the year following the expiration of the period of ten years mentioned in the preceding paragraph, exercise the right of denunciation provided for in this Article, will be bound for another period of ten years and, thereafter, may denounce this Convention within the first year of each new period of ten years under the terms provided for in this Article.
Article 50
  1. 1. The Director-General of the International Labour Office shall notify all Members of the International Labour Organization of the registration of all ratifications, declarations and denunciations that have been communicated by the Members of the Organization.
  2. 2. When notifying the Members of the Organization of the registration of the last of the ratifications required to bring the Convention into force, the Director-General shall draw the attention of the Members of the Organization to the date upon which the Convention will come into force.
Article 51

The Director-General of the International Labour Office shall communicate to the Secretary-General of the United Nations for registration in accordance with Article 102 of the Charter of the United Nations full particulars of all ratifications, declarations and denunciations registered by the Director-General.

Article 52

At such times as it may consider necessary, the Governing Body of the International Labour Office shall present to the General Conference a report on the working of this Convention and shall examine the desirability of placing on the agenda of the Conference the question of its revision in whole or in part, taking into account also the provisions of Article 45.

Article 53
  1. 1. Should the Conference adopt a new Convention revising this Convention, then, unless the new Convention otherwise provides:
    • (a) the ratification by a Member of the new revising Convention shall ipso jure involve the immediate denunciation of this Convention, notwithstanding the provisions of Article 49 above, if and when the new revising Convention shall have come into force;
    • (b) as from the date when the new revising Convention comes into force this Convention shall cease to be open to ratification by the Members.
  2. 2. This Convention shall in any case remain in force in its actual form and content for those Members which have ratified it but have not ratified the revising Convention.
Article 54

The English and French versions of the text of this Convention are equally authoritative.

Annex I

Equivalence in measurement

For the purpose of this Convention, where the competent authority, after consultation, decides to use length overall (LOA) rather than length (L) as the basis of measurement:

  • (a) a length overall (LOA) of 16.5 metres shall be considered equivalent to a length (L) of 15 metres;
  • (b) a length overall (LOA) of 26.5 metres shall be considered equivalent to a length (L) of 24 metres;
  • (c) a length overall (LOA) of 50 metres shall be considered equivalent to a length (L) of 45 metres.

Annex II

Fisher's work agreement

The fisher's work agreement shall contain the following particulars, except in so far as the inclusion of one or more of them is rendered unnecessary by the fact that the matter is regulated in another manner by national laws or regulations, or a collective bargaining agreement where applicable:

  • (a) the fisher's family name and other names, date of birth or age, and birthplace;
  • (b) the place at which and date on which the agreement was concluded;
  • (c) the name of the fishing vessel or vessels and the registration number of the vessel or vessels on board which the fisher undertakes to work;
  • (d) the name of the employer, or fishing vessel owner, or other party to the agreement with the fisher;
  • (e) the voyage or voyages to be undertaken, if this can be determined at the time of making the agreement;
  • (f) the capacity in which the fisher is to be employed or engaged;
  • (g) if possible, the place at which and date on which the fisher is required to report on board for service;
  • (h) the provisions to be supplied to the fisher, unless some alternative system is provided for by national law or regulation;
  • (i) the amount of wages, or the amount of the share and the method of calculating such share if remuneration is to be on a share basis, or the amount of the wage and share and the method of calculating the latter if remuneration is to be on a combined basis, and any agreed minimum wage;
  • (j) the termination of the agreement and the conditions thereof, namely:
    • (i) if the agreement has been made for a definite period, the date fixed for its expiry;
    • (ii) if the agreement has been made for a voyage, the port of destination and the time which has to expire after arrival before the fisher shall be discharged;
    • (iii) if the agreement has been made for an indefinite period, the conditions which shall entitle either party to rescind it, as well as the required period of notice for rescission, provided that such period shall not be less for the employer, or fishing vessel owner or other party to the agreement with the fisher;
  • (k) the protection that will cover the fisher in the event of sickness, injury or death in connection with service;
  • (l) the amount of paid annual leave or the formula used for calculating leave, where applicable;
  • (m) the health and social security coverage and benefits to be provided to the fisher by the employer, fishing vessel owner, or other party or parties to the fisher's work agreement, as applicable;
  • (n) the fisher's entitlement to repatriation;
  • (o) a reference to the collective bargaining agreement, where applicable;
  • (p) the minimum periods of rest, in accordance with national laws, regulations or other measures; and
  • (q) any other particulars which national law or regulation may require.

Annex III

Fishing vessel accommodation

General provisions

  1. 1. For the purposes of this Annex:
    • (a) "new fishing vessel" means a vessel for which:
      • (i) the building or major conversion contract has been placed on or after the date of the entry into force of the Convention for the Member concerned; or
      • (ii) the building or major conversion contract has been placed before the date of the entry into force of the Convention for the Member concerned, and which is delivered three years or more after that date; or
      • (iii) in the absence of a building contract, on or after the date of the entry into force of the Convention for the Member concerned:
        • - the keel is laid, or
        • - construction identifiable with a specific vessel begins, or
        • - assembly has commenced comprising at least 50 tonnes or 1 per cent of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less;
    • (b) "existing vessel" means a vessel that is not a new fishing vessel.
  2. 2. The following shall apply to all new, decked fishing vessels, subject to any exclusions provided for in accordance with Article 3 of the Convention. The competent authority may, after consultation, also apply the requirements of this Annex to existing vessels, when and in so far as it determines that this is reasonable and practicable.
  3. 3. The competent authority, after consultation, may permit variations to the provisions of this Annex for fishing vessels normally remaining at sea for less than 24 hours where the fishers do not live on board the vessel in port. In the case of such vessels, the competent authority shall ensure that the fishers concerned have adequate facilities for resting, eating and sanitation purposes.
  4. 4. Any variations made by a Member under paragraph 3 of this Annex shall be reported to the International Labour Office under article 22 of the Constitution of the International Labour Organisation.
  5. 5. The requirements for vessels of 24 metres in length and over may be applied to vessels between 15 and 24 metres in length where the competent authority determines, after consultation, that this is reasonable and practicable.
  6. 6. Fishers working on board feeder vessels which do not have appropriate accommodation and sanitary facilities shall be provided with such accommodation and facilities on board the mother vessel.
  7. 7. Members may extend the requirements of this Annex regarding noise and vibration, ventilation, heating and air conditioning, and lighting to enclosed working spaces and spaces used for storage if, after consultation, such application is considered appropriate and will not have a negative influence on the function of the process or working conditions or the quality of the catches.
  8. 8. The use of gross tonnage as referred to in Article 5 of the Convention is limited to the following specified paragraphs of this Annex: 14, 37, 38, 41, 43, 46, 49, 53, 55, 61, 64, 65 and 67. For these purposes, where the competent authority, after consultation, decides to use gross tonnage (gt) as the basis of measurement:
    • (a) a gross tonnage of 75 gt shall be considered equivalent to a length (L) of 15 metres or a length overall (LOA) of 16.5 metres;
    • (b) a gross tonnage of 300 gt shall be considered equivalent to a length (L) of 24 metres or a length overall (LOA) of 26.5 metres;
    • (c) a gross tonnage of 950 gt shall be considered equivalent to a length (L) of 45 metres or a length overall (LOA) of 50 metres.

Planning and control

  1. 9. The competent authority shall satisfy itself that, on every occasion when a vessel is newly constructed or the crew accommodation of a vessel has been reconstructed, such vessel complies with the requirements of this Annex. The competent authority shall, to the extent practicable, require compliance with this Annex when the crew accommodation of a vessel is substantially altered and, for a vessel that changes the flag it flies to the flag of the Member, require compliance with those requirements of this Annex that are applicable in accordance with paragraph 2 of this Annex.
  2. 10. For the occasions noted in paragraph 9 of this Annex, for vessels of 24 metres in length and over, detailed plans and information concerning accommodation shall be required to be submitted for approval to the competent authority, or an entity authorized by it.
  3. 11. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, on every occasion when the crew accommodation of the fishing vessel has been reconstructed or substantially altered, the competent authority shall inspect the accommodation for compliance with the requirements of the Convention, and when the vessel changes the flag it flies to the flag of the Member, for compliance with those requirements of this Annex that are applicable in accordance with paragraph 2 of this Annex. The competent authority may carry out additional inspections of crew accommodation at its discretion.
  4. 12. When a vessel changes flag, any alternative requirements which the competent authority of the Member whose flag the ship was formerly flying may have adopted in accordance with paragraphs 15, 39, 47 or 62 of this Annex cease to apply to the vessel.

Design and construction

Headroom

  1. 13. There shall be adequate headroom in all accommodation spaces. For spaces where fishers are expected to stand for prolonged periods, the minimum headroom shall be prescribed by the competent authority.
  2. 14. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, the minimum permitted headroom in all accommodation where full and free movement is necessary shall not be less than 200 centimetres.
  3. 15. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 14, the competent authority may, after consultation, decide that the minimum permitted headroom shall not be less than 190 centimetres in any space - or part of any space - in such accommodation, where it is satisfied that this is reasonable and will not result in discomfort to the fishers.

Openings into and between accommodation spaces

  1. 16. There shall be no direct openings into sleeping rooms from fish rooms and machinery spaces, except for the purpose of emergency escape. Where reasonable and practicable, direct openings from galleys, storerooms, drying rooms or communal sanitary areas shall be avoided unless expressly provided otherwise.
  2. 17. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, there shall be no direct openings, except for the purpose of emergency escape, into sleeping rooms from fish rooms and machinery spaces or from galleys, storerooms, drying rooms or communal sanitary areas; that part of the bulkhead separating such places from sleeping rooms and external bulkheads shall be efficiently constructed of steel or another approved material and shall be watertight and gas-tight. This provision does not exclude the possibility of sanitary areas being shared between two cabins.

Insulation

  1. 18. Accommodation spaces shall be adequately insulated; the materials used to construct internal bulkheads, panelling and sheeting, and floors and joinings shall be suitable for the purpose and shall be conducive to ensuring a healthy environment. Sufficient drainage shall be provided in all accommodation spaces.

Other

  1. 19. All practicable measures shall be taken to protect fishing vessels' crew accommodation against flies and other insects, particularly when vessels are operating in mosquito-infested areas.
  2. 20. Emergency escapes from all crew accommodation spaces shall be provided as necessary.

Noise and vibration

  1. 21. The competent authority shall take measures to limit excessive noise and vibration in accommodation spaces and, as far as practicable, in accordance with relevant international standards.
  2. 22. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, the competent authority shall adopt standards for noise and vibration in accommodation spaces which shall ensure adequate protection to fishers from the effects of such noise and vibration, including the effects of noise- and vibration-induced fatigue.

Ventilation

  1. 23. Accommodation spaces shall be ventilated, taking into account climatic conditions. The system of ventilation shall supply air in a satisfactory condition whenever fishers are on board.
  2. 24. Ventilation arrangements or other measures shall be such as to protect non-smokers from tobacco smoke.
  3. 25. Vessels of 24 metres in length and over shall be equipped with a system of ventilation for accommodation, which shall be controlled so as to maintain the air in a satisfactory condition and to ensure sufficiency of air movement in all weather conditions and climates. Ventilation systems shall be in operation at all times when fishers are on board.

Heating and air conditioning

  1. 26. Accommodation spaces shall be adequately heated, taking into account climatic conditions.
  2. 27. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, adequate heat shall be provided, through an appropriate heating system, except in fishing vessels operating exclusively in tropical climates. The system of heating shall provide heat in all conditions, as necessary, and shall be in operation when fishers are living or working on board, and when conditions so require.
  3. 28. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, with the exception of those regularly engaged in areas where temperate climatic conditions do not require it, air conditioning shall be provided in accommodation spaces, the bridge, the radio room and any centralized machinery control room.

Lighting

  1. 29. All accommodation spaces shall be provided with adequate light.
  2. 30. Wherever practicable, accommodation spaces shall be lit with natural light in addition to artificial light. Where sleeping spaces have natural light, a means of blocking the light shall be provided.
  3. 31. Adequate reading light shall be provided for every berth in addition to the normal lighting of the sleeping room.
  4. 32. Emergency lighting shall be provided in sleeping rooms.
  5. 33. Where a vessel is not fitted with emergency lighting in mess rooms, passageways, and any other spaces that are or may be used for emergency escape, permanent night lighting shall be provided in such spaces.
  6. 34. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, lighting in accommodation spaces shall meet a standard established by the competent authority. In any part of the accommodation space available for free movement, the minimum standard for such lighting shall be such as to permit a person with normal vision to read an ordinary printed newspaper on a clear day.

Sleeping rooms

General

  1. 35. Where the design, dimensions or purpose of the vessel allow, the sleeping accommodation shall be located so as to minimize the effects of motion and acceleration but shall in no case be located forward of the collision bulkhead.

Floor area

  1. 36. The number of persons per sleeping room and the floor area per person, excluding space occupied by berths and lockers, shall be such as to provide adequate space and comfort for the fishers on board, taking into account the service of the vessel.
  2. 37. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over but which are less than 45 metres in length, the floor area per person of sleeping rooms, excluding space occupied by berths and lockers, shall not be less than 1.5 square metres.
  3. 38. For vessels of 45 metres in length and over, the floor area per person of sleeping rooms, excluding space occupied by berths and lockers, shall not be less than 2 square metres.
  4. 39. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs 37 and 38, the competent authority may, after consultation, decide that the minimum permitted floor area per person of sleeping rooms, excluding space occupied by berths and lockers, shall not be less than 1.0 and 1.5 square metres respectively, where the competent authority is satisfied that this is reasonable and will not result in discomfort to the fishers.

Persons per sleeping room

  1. 40. To the extent not expressly provided otherwise, the number of persons allowed to occupy each sleeping room shall not be more than six.
  2. 41. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, the number of persons allowed to occupy each sleeping room shall not be more than four. The competent authority may permit exceptions to this requirement in particular cases if the size, type or intended service of the vessel makes the requirement unreasonable or impracticable.
  3. 42. To the extent not expressly provided otherwise, a separate sleeping room or sleeping rooms shall be provided for officers, wherever practicable.
  4. 43. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, sleeping rooms for officers shall be for one person wherever possible and in no case shall the sleeping room contain more than two berths. The competent authority may permit exceptions to the requirements of this paragraph in particular cases if the size, type or intended service of the vessel makes the requirements unreasonable or impracticable.

Other

  1. 44. The maximum number of persons to be accommodated in any sleeping room shall be legibly and indelibly marked in a place in the room where it can be conveniently seen.
  2. 45. Individual berths of appropriate dimensions shall be provided. Mattresses shall be of a suitable material.
  3. 46. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, the minimum inside dimensions of the berths shall not be less than 198 by 80 centimetres.
  4. 47. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 46, the competent authority may, after consultation, decide that the minimum inside dimensions of the berths shall not be less than 190 by 70 centimetres, where it is satisfied that this is reasonable and will not result in discomfort to the fishers.
  5. 48. Sleeping rooms shall be so planned and equipped as to ensure reasonable comfort for the occupants and to facilitate tidiness. Equipment provided shall include berths, individual lockers sufficient for clothing and other personal effects, and a suitable writing surface.
  6. 49. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, a desk suitable for writing, with a chair, shall be provided.
  7. 50. Sleeping accommodation shall be situated or equipped, as practicable, so as to provide appropriate levels of privacy for men and for women.

Mess rooms

  1. 51. Mess rooms shall be as close as possible to the galley, but in no case shall be located forward of the collision bulkhead.
  2. 52. Vessels shall be provided with mess-room accommodation suitable for their service. To the extent not expressly provided otherwise, mess-room accommodation shall be separate from sleeping quarters, where practicable.
  3. 53. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, mess-room accommodation shall be separate from sleeping quarters.
  4. 54. The dimensions and equipment of each mess room shall be sufficient for the number of persons likely to use it at any one time.
  5. 55. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, a refrigerator of sufficient capacity and facilities for making hot and cold drinks shall be available and accessible to fishers at all times.

Tubs or showers, toilets and washbasins

  1. 56. Sanitary facilities, which include toilets, washbasins, and tubs or showers, shall be provided for all persons on board, as appropriate for the service of the vessel. These facilities shall meet at least minimum standards of health and hygiene and reasonable standards of quality.
  2. 57. The sanitary accommodation shall be such as to eliminate contamination of other spaces as far as practicable. The sanitary facilities shall allow for reasonable privacy.
  3. 58. Cold fresh water and hot fresh water shall be available to all fishers and other persons on board, in sufficient quantities to allow for proper hygiene. The competent authority may establish, after consultation, the minimum amount of water to be provided.
  4. 59. Where sanitary facilities are provided, they shall be fitted with ventilation to the open air, independent of any other part of the accommodation.
  5. 60. All surfaces in sanitary accommodation shall be such as to facilitate easy and effective cleaning. Floors shall have a non-slip deck covering.
  6. 61. On vessels of 24 metres in length and over, for all fishers who do not occupy rooms to which sanitary facilities are attached, there shall be provided at least one tub or shower or both, one toilet, and one washbasin for every four persons or fewer.
  7. 62. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 61, the competent authority may, after consultation, decide that there shall be provided at least one tub or shower or both and one washbasin for every six persons or fewer, and at least one toilet for every eight persons or fewer, where the competent authority is satisfied that this is reasonable and will not result in discomfort to the fishers.

Laundry facilities

  1. 63. Amenities for washing and drying clothes shall be provided as necessary, taking into account the service of the vessel, to the extent not expressly provided otherwise.
  2. 64. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, adequate facilities for washing, drying and ironing clothes shall be provided.
  3. 65. For vessels of 45 metres in length and over, adequate facilities for washing, drying and ironing clothes shall be provided in a compartment separate from sleeping rooms, mess rooms and toilets, and shall be adequately ventilated, heated and equipped with lines or other means for drying clothes.

Facilities for sick and injured fishers

  1. 66. Whenever necessary, a cabin shall be made available for a fisher who suffers illness or injury.
  2. 67. For vessels of 45 metres in length and over, there shall be a separate sick bay. The space shall be properly equipped and shall be maintained in a hygienic state.

Other facilities

  1. 68. A place for hanging foul-weather gear and other personal protective equipment shall be provided outside of, but convenient to, sleeping rooms.

Bedding, mess utensils and miscellaneous provisions

  1. 69. Appropriate eating utensils, and bedding and other linen shall be provided to all fishers on board. However, the cost of the linen can be recovered as an operational cost if the collective agreement or the fisher's work agreement so provides.

Recreational facilities

  1. 70. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, appropriate recreational facilities, amenities and services shall be provided for all fishers on board. Where appropriate, mess rooms may be used for recreational activities.

Communication facilities

  1. 71. All fishers on board shall be given reasonable access to communication facilities, to the extent practicable, at a reasonable cost and not exceeding the full cost to the fishing vessel owner.

Galley and food storage facilities

  1. 72. Cooking equipment shall be provided on board. To the extent not expressly provided otherwise, this equipment shall be fitted, where practicable, in a separate galley.
  2. 73. The galley, or cooking area where a separate galley is not provided, shall be of adequate size for the purpose, well lit and ventilated, and properly equipped and maintained.
  3. 74. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, there shall be a separate galley.
  4. 75. The containers of butane or propane gas used for cooking purposes in a galley shall be kept on the open deck and in a shelter which is designed to protect them from external heat sources and external impact.
  5. 76. A suitable place for provisions of adequate capacity shall be provided which can be kept dry, cool and well ventilated in order to avoid deterioration of the stores and, to the extent not expressly provided otherwise, refrigerators or other lowtemperature storage shall be used, where possible.
  6. 77. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, a provisions storeroom and refrigerator and other low-temperature storage shall be used.

Food and potable water

  1. 78. Food and potable water shall be sufficient, having regard to the number of fishers, and the duration and nature of the voyage. In addition, they shall be suitable in respect of nutritional value, quality, quantity and variety, having regard as well to the fishers' religious requirements and cultural practices in relation to food.
  2. 79. The competent authority may establish requirements for the minimum standards and quantity of food and water to be carried on board.

Clean and habitable conditions

  1. 80. Accommodation shall be maintained in a clean and habitable condition and shall be kept free of goods and stores which are not the personal property of the occupants or for their safety or rescue.
  2. 81. Galley and food storage facilities shall be maintained in a hygienic condition.
  3. 82. Waste shall be kept in closed, well-sealed containers and removed from foodhandling areas whenever necessary.

Inspections by the skipper or under the authority of the skipper

  1. 83. For vessels of 24 metres in length and over, the competent authority shall require frequent inspections to be carried out, by or under the authority of the skipper, to ensure that:
    • (a) accommodation is clean, decently habitable and safe, and is maintained in a good state of repair;
    • (b) food and water supplies are sufficient; and
    • (c) galley and food storage spaces and equipment are hygienic and in a proper state of repair.

The results of such inspections, and the actions taken to address any deficiencies found, shall be recorded and available for review.

Variations

  1. 84. The competent authority, after consultation, may permit derogations from the provisions in this Annex to take into account, without discrimination, the interests of fishers having differing and distinctive religious and social practices, on condition that such derogations do not result in overall conditions less favourable than those which would result from the application of this Annex.

See related

Constitution
  1. Constitution Article 22

Key Information

Convention concerning work in the fishing sector (Entry into force: 16 Nov 2017)

Adoption: Geneva, 96th ILC session (14 Jun 2007)
Status: Up-to-date instrument (Technical Convention).
Convention may be denounced: 16 Nov 2027 - 16 Nov 2028
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