4 July 2009

THE HEALTH and Safety Executive will host a special aquaculture and maritime safety seminar in Shetland next week.

It aims to remind fish and shellfish farmers of good practice, through practical demonstrations, and will provide an opportunity for the industry to get together and share experiences.

The event, which is also supported by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), the NAFC Marine Centre, the Northern Lighthouse Board and the RNLI, will kick off at 10.30am at the Blacksness Pier, in Scalloway.

It follows the success of a similar event held in Oban earlier this year.

Qualified instructors and experienced personnel will present practical demonstrations on how to avoid the most common causes of accidents and ill health, arising in aquaculture and other marine activities. These include:

* Marine cranes and lifting equipment
* Safe Entry into confined spaces
* Fork lift truck/ transport issues
* Manual handling
* Lifejackets
* Life rafts and flares
* Cold shock.

HSE inspector Ann Poyner said: “Aquaculture is an important industry in Scotland and one that we can be very proud of; however we must not forget that the marine environment is dangerous and unforgiving.

“Within this industry, since 2000, HSE has investigated four cases of drowning and is at present looking into a double fatality involving a confined space.”

She continued: “The event in Oban was well received and I have been extremely encouraged by the enthusiasm and assistance given by Shetland organisations to ensure a similar event is held here.

“It clearly demonstrates the industry’s real desire to protect its workforce and improve standards.”

Director of the Scalloway based NAFC Marine Centre, Professor David Gray, added: “The sea surrounding Shetland is an important and valuable economic resource but it also brings constant concerns for the safety of those working in the marine environment.

“We are delighted to support an event that is critical to minimising the risk for all those who work in the aquaculture sector and I would encourage everyone involved in the industry to attend.”

The event is free, although places are limited and by invitation only. Anyone wishing to book a place should contact Anne-Lise at Shetland Aquaculture at: www.shetlandaquaculture.com or Tel: 01595 69 5579.