Starting Your Career in Commercial Fishing: The Mandatory Basic Courses You Need
Commercial fishing is one of the UK’s oldest and most vital industries, playing a key role in supplying fresh, sustainable seafood to markets both at home and abroad. If you’re considering a career in this exciting and challenging field, it’s essential to understand the training and safety requirements involved before setting foot on a fishing vessel.
At Seafood Cornwall Training, we specialise in preparing new entrants and experienced fishers alike for the demands of the sea. Whether you’re based in Newlyn, Padstow, Looe, or any other fishing port in Cornwall or beyond, getting the right training is your first step toward a safe and successful career.
So, what are the mandatory basic courses you’ll need before working in the commercial fishing industry? Let’s break it down.
Why Is Training Mandatory?
Fishing is among the most hazardous professions in the UK. Working at sea exposes crew members to extreme weather conditions, heavy machinery, and the ever-present risk of accidents. The mandatory courses aren’t just a formality—they’re designed to keep you and your crewmates safe and to ensure you’re ready to handle emergencies.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) requires all commercial fishers to complete a set of basic safety training courses. These are essential for anyone working on a UK-registered commercial fishing vessel.
The Four Mandatory Basic Safety Courses
To begin working legally and safely in the commercial fishing industry, you’ll need to complete the following four MCA-approved courses:
1. Sea Survival
This course is crucial for teaching fishers how to survive in the event of an emergency at sea. Topics covered include:
Use of lifejackets and immersion suits
Abandoning ship procedures
Use of liferafts
Hypothermia prevention
Basic search and rescue techniques
A practical session in a pool is usually included to give participants hands-on experience with survival equipment. It’s an essential skill that could one day save your life.
2. Fire Fighting and Prevention
Fire on a fishing vessel can be catastrophic. This course prepares you to:
Identify fire hazards on board
Use fire extinguishers and fire blankets
Understand different classes of fire
Conduct fire drills and evacuations
The training is both theoretical and practical, with participants using real fire-fighting equipment in a controlled setting.
3. First Aid
Immediate and effective first aid can make all the difference in the event of an accident or medical emergency at sea. This course includes:
CPR techniques
Wound dressing and treatment
Dealing with fractures and burns
Recognising and treating hypothermia and shock
The course is tailored to the unique challenges of working in remote marine environments, where professional medical help may be hours away.
4. Health and Safety Awareness
This course introduces you to general safety practices and your responsibilities as part of the crew. Topics include:
Risk assessment
Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Safe working practices around deck machinery
Reporting accidents and near misses
Understanding health and safety not only protects you but contributes to a safer working culture for the entire crew.
Why Train with Seafood Cornwall Training?
Based in the heart of Cornwall’s fishing community, we understand the needs of local fishers and the demands of the job. Our experienced instructors, practical training facilities, and strong links with the industry make us the go-to provider for maritime safety training in the South West.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your skills, we’re here to help you build a safe and rewarding career at sea.
Ready to Get Started?
Explore our upcoming course dates and book your place today.