Fishing effort control policies and ship stability: Analysis of a string of accidents in Spain in the period 2004–2007

A number of similar Spanish fishing vessels designed and built after the entry into force of the 1998 fishing effort control regulations —Royal Decree 2287/1998—capsized in a relatively short period of time (2004–2007). The accidents are described and identified herein as a statistical anomaly within the Spanish fleet. The main dimensions and initial stability characteristics of the capsized vessels are compared with those of the vessels decommissioned in order to build the capsized ones, unveiling a reduction in marginal stability. This reduction is linked to the fishing effort control policies and subsequent regulatory framework. The influence of fishing effort control policies on ship safety is discussed. Conclusions and some recommendations are finally presented.

► A series of Spanish fishing vessel accidents identified as a statistical anomaly.
► Stability parameters differences between capsized vessels and their predecessors discussed.
► Links between capsized vessel designs and fishing effort control policies shown.
► Transversal effects of marine policy implementations on ship safety documented.