Managing Perils at Sea: a diagnostic analysis of occupational hazards among small-scale fishers in India’s southern coasts

Marine fishing is a high-risk occupation that sustains the livelihoods of coastal communities worldwide. This study highlights the occupational hazards associated with marine fishing, drawing on an empirical case study of the high-intensity, multi-day offshore fishing sector in southern India. Following the FAO/ILO/IMO joint framework on occupational health and safety of fishers, our research revealed significant deficiencies in the adoption of safety devices, communication technologies, and navigation systems by sample fishers in the study areas. These gaps, compounded by weak regulatory enforcement and low insurance coverage, pose substantial risks, exacerbated by climate change. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions—including awareness campaigns, training, and financial aid—to foster a robust safety culture and mitigate economic barriers, leading to improved fisher safety and well-being in the coastal regions of India.