Food and Agriculture organization (FAO) Best Practice Guidance for occupational safety and health (OSH) in inland aquaculture and fisheries

As aquatic food production is projected to continue expanding rapidly, occupational safety and health (OSH) challenges are also expected to increase, potentially threatening the sustainability and resilience of the sector unless they are addressed in a comprehensive and holistic manner.

This circular presents the best practice guidance for OSH in inland aquaculture and fisheries together with an inspection tool designed to support the identification and evaluation of OSH hazards in inland fisheries and aquaculture operations.

Originally developed to address the needs of a specific region, the guidance and associated tool have since been expanded for global application. To further support capacity development and dissemination, an accompanying e-learning course has also been developed and will be made available through the FAO Academy.

This guidance document targets small-scale and large commercial inland aquaculture and fisheries (where there are more formalized relationships). It can also be inform artisanal fishers and farmers. It complements existing FAO guidance on OSH in fisheries: Guidelines and codes | Fishing Safety | Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 

“As aquaculture continues to expand and play an increasingly important role in global food security and nutrition, our commitment to protecting the safety, health and well-being of those who sustain this sector must grow alongside it. Every fisher and fish farmer has a right to work in a safe, healthy and decent work environment” says Professor Mohamed Jeebhay, Head of Occupational Medicine and author of the guideline. 

This Best practice guidance for occupational safety and health (OSH) in inland aquaculture and fisheries, FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Circular, No. 1301. Rome, FAO, is accompanied by a practical inspection tool to support workplace hazard risk assessments.

The document can be accessed here