P.E.I. boat crews face new safety protocols following a tragic boat incident
New safety guidelines for Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) fishing crews have been introduced following an investigation into a fatal accident involving a lobster boat boom in North Lake last June.
Watch video of related report: New guidelines in place after fatal accident involving boom on P.E.I. lobster boat
The investigation by occupational health and safety officials reviewed the incident in which a crew member was fatally struck by a descending boom used to lift lobster traps.
The findings, released through the Workers Compensation Board (WCB), highlighted specific hazards associated with the use of booms on fishing vessels and prompted the WCB to issue a hazard alert in July. While the investigation is complete, authorities have not disclosed whether any charges or fines will be pursued in relation to the incident.
According to the WCB, the boom and hoist involved in the accident were functioning correctly; however, several factors contributed to an unsafe work environment, contravening the P.E.I. Occupational Health and Safety Act. Crew members were permitted to move beneath the boom while it was in operation, and the joystick controlling the device lacked safeguards to prevent accidental activation.
Another key finding in the alert was that the hoist had not been certified by an engineer following its installation. Additional risks included a confined working space and the instability caused by the vessel's movement, both of which were noted as factors creating a hazardous environment.
Following the crew member’s death, safety inspectors have increased their presence at Island wharves and equipment suppliers, aiming to raise awareness of the risks linked to using booms on fishing boats.
