IFISH 4
Fourth International Fishing Industry Safety and Health Conference

Join Colleagues From Around The World
With The Latest Developments In Commercial Fishing Safety And Health

May 11 - 14, 2009
Icelandair Hotel Loftleidir
Reykjavik, Iceland

Convened by
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Alaska Pacific Regional Office
Institute for Sustainable Development, University of Iceland
The Icelandic Maritime Administration
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

IFISH 4 conference Final Agenda

WELCOME!
It is our pleasure to invite you to join colleagues from around the world to learn about the latest improvements in commercial fishing safety and health. This event will bring together individuals who share an interest in reducing health and safety hazards faced by commercial fishermen.

At IFISH 4, we plan to provide a forum for the latest information on successful research programs and industry successes in regard to improving fishing safety and health. The conference will help build an international coalition, and promote action to prevent injury and improve health in the commercial fishing industry. IFISH 4 is THE conference for anyone with an interest in safety promotion, occupational health, injury prevention, search and rescue, occupational safety in regard to the commercial fishing industry. A stimulating program will include keynote speakers and the presentation of scientific papers and posters, and workshops. Social, educational, and sightseeing programs are planned for participants and their companions.

Key themes for IFISH 4 will be the relationship between fisheries management and safety, and productive sea safety collaborations between developed and developing nations.

The venue is the striking mid-Atlantic meeting place, Iceland, which is readily accessible by air from North America and Europe. Reykjavik, Iceland will provide a stimulating environment for IFISH 4.

Utilizing the resources of the sea has always been of prime importance for the survival of the Icelandic people. The importance of fisheries for the economy peaked in the late 20th century but in 2006 seafood still constituted about 70% of the total export value of goods. Iceland is situated in the North Atlantic where the waters are cold and winters are harsh. The main fishing seasons for trawlers and open boats are during the dark winter months, when seas can be high and the weather bad. Under these conditions working on deck can be extremely dangerous. Icelanders have recognized the dangers that accompany fishing at sea and the importance of improving working conditions onboard the vessels as well as proper training. These measures have proven to be successful and have resulted in a dramatic reduction of fatal injuries among fishermen in the past decades.

Iceland is proud to host the fourth meeting of IFISH.
 
We look forward to seeing you in Iceland!

George A Conway & Jennifer Lincoln
NIOSH Alaska Pacific Regional Office

Gudrun Petursdottir
Institute for Sustainable Development, University of Iceland

Jeremy Turner & Ari Gudmundsson
Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations