September 12, 2012 --- Quonset Point, RI. Offshore fishing is one of the most dangerous jobs in the Nation, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, a new federal law, may help to stem the grim tide.

For the first time, commercial fishing vessels that operate three or more miles from the coast will be required to undergo a dockside Coast Guard inspection to demonstrate compliance with various safety regulations. In the past, the standards for commercial fishing vessels have been different than those for commercial passenger vessels.

A failure to comply with these new requirements may give rise to government enforcement actions which may include civil penalties and/or termination of the vessel's voyage. You can read the Coast Guard's notice letter to the fishing industry here http://www.fishsafe.info/NoticeCFVSExaminationRequirements.pdf

Underway and making way.

--- Fulweiler llc