Managing Risk in the Norwegian Fishing Fleet

Abstract By virtue of the statistically high number of accidents in commercial fishing, it is commonly described as a high-risk occupation. In this paper, governmental risk management in the Norwegian fishing fleet is described and discussed. Prominent strategies for reducing risk include regulation, inspection, training and informational campaigns. Subsequently, compliance with regulations is taken as a reflection of the safety culture in the industry. Fishers do not necessarily see the need for all safety regulations, often claiming that they are already doing what they can to stay safe. Empirical examples are used to further describe the relationship and interaction between the authorities and fishers.