01-05 December 2025
INCOIS, Hyderabad, India.
| Abstract Submission No. | ABS-05-0156 |
| Title of Abstract | Occupational Hazards and Safety Preparedness among Small-scale Motorised Fishers of Southernmost Coasts of India |
| Authors | Preethi V P*, Sabu M, Waseem P C*, Shinoj Parappurathu |
| Organisation | ICARâ¿¿Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi |
| Address | Senior Research Fellow Ernakulam, Kerala, India Pincode: 682018 E-mail: preethipremvp@gmail.com |
| Country | India |
| Presentation | Oral |
| Abstract | Millions depend on marine fisheries for their livelihoods, with small-scale fishers particularly reliant on these resources for their income, food security, and way of life. However, climate change driven extreme weather events increasingly threaten their life by intensifying the hazards associated with this occupation. The present study examines the occupational hazards and use of safety devices among small-scale motorised fishers in the southernmost coastal region of India based on primary data collected from 253 respondents. The study employed Relative Importance Index (RII) to assess fishersâ¿¿ perceived impact across different hazard categories and analysed adoption rates to examine the usage patterns of available life-saving devices. The findings indicate environmental hazards (0.80) such as heavy rain, cyclones, heavy currents, and high tides have the greatest impact on fishers compared to psychological (0.70), vessel-related (0.69), health (0.64), ergonomic (0.63), and biological/chemical hazards (0.50), emphasising the severe threat posed by extreme events whose frequency and occurrence are far more difficult to prevent. GPS (87.75%), mobile phones (84.19%), VHF radio (67.98%), and AIS (20.16%) are the primary life-safety gadgets predominantly used by fishers, while other essential safety devices such as life jackets (3.56%), life buoys (2.37%), and fire extinguishers (1.98%) remain underutilized despite awareness of safety measures. This indicates that fishers are prioritizing communication and navigation tools over vital safety measures, thereby increasing their risk at sea. Addressing these gaps requires strict enforcement of safety protocols, along with enhanced awareness, training, and regular inspections during the registration and renewal process of fishing vessels, to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of fishers facing rising extreme weather events. |
| Are you part of IIOE-2 endorsed project | no |
| Keywords | Extreme weather events, Occupational hazards, Marine fisheries, Life-Saving Devices |
| For Awards | no |