[Reader-list] Call for safety norms in design of boats

[T Peter]

*Call for safety norms in design of boats*

*http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/call-for-safety-norms-in-design-of-boats/article22446302.ece
<http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/call-for-safety-norms-in-design-of-boats/article22446302.ece>*

*T. Nandakumar*UPDATED: JANUARY 16, 2018 04:36 IST

*Experts lay stress on standardisation of fishing vessels to ensure safety*

The design of the boats used by traditional fishermen in South Kerala could
have amplified the magnitude of the tragedy caused by Cyclone Ockhi last
month and contributed to the heavy death toll at sea, according to experts
and fishers. The need for a review of the design of boats was one of the
major issues highlighted at the various discussions organised by the
government to enhance safety at sea. The Kochi-based Central Institute of
Fisheries Technology (CIFT) has taken up a study on the types of boats that
were affected by the cyclone, under a move to address deficiencies in boat
design.

Prone to capsize

Experts believe that the slender shape of the boats largely used by
artisanal fishermen makes the vessel prone to capsizing in rough seas. “A
30-ft-long boat ideally should have a breadth of 10 ft but most vessels are
less than eight ft wide, making them unstable,” says M.V. Baiju, naval
architect, CIFT. Experts believe that the preference for the slender shape
is dictated by the need to use less engine power to break through the surf
line while putting out to sea.

“The absence of standardisation for fishing vessels is a major issue that
has to be tackled immediately,” says T. Peter, secretary, National
Fishworkers Forum. “The design is mostly dictated by the compulsions of
speed and cost, with little or no consideration for safety. The absence of
engine specifications and safety regulations has added to the risk
factors.” The design of the FRP-laminated plywood boats preferred by
traditional fishermen along the South Kerala coast dates back to the early
1980s. The vessels are built for speed but capsize easily in rough weather.
Ockhi survivors point out that many fishermen could have escaped a watery
grave if the smooth hulls of the capsized boats had something they could
cling on to. The CIFT has started work on a frame that can be fitted under
the hull of boats as a grip.

Safety kit

“It is a safety kit that can be retrofitted on existing vessels,” Mr. Baiju
said. He, however, concurs with the demand for a drastic overhaul of the
design of fishing vessels. Fishermen also stress the need to blend modern
technology and traditional knowledge in the engineering and construction of
fishing vessels.