Worker satisfaction with personal flotation devices (PFDs) in the fishing industry: Evaluations in actual use

The purpose of this study was to determine which type of commercially available PFD resulted in the highest satisfaction among workers in the fishing industry. Fishing industry workers on four types of vessels wore and evaluated six different PFDs during their fishing seasons. Linear regression was used to test the differences in mean satisfaction scores, adjusting for clustered observations on vessels. The data were stratified by vessel type to determine the differences in PFD satisfaction within each vessel type. PFD D had the highest mean satisfaction score, but satisfaction with particular PFDs varied depending on the vessel type. Although the common objections by workers to wearing PFDs are that they are bulky and uncomfortable, some of the PFDs that were evaluated in this study received high scores for comfort and satisfaction. Given the availability of PFDs that are comfortable to wear while working, fishing vessel owners and operators should consider implementing policies mandating the use of PFDs on deck.

► Certain PFDs that were evaluated by workers received high scores for satisfaction.
► Satisfaction with particular PFDs varied depending on the type of fishing vessel.
► PFD satisfaction did not change significantly with use over time during the study.
► Fishing vessel owners should consider policies mandating the use of PFDs on deck.
► The unique conditions on each vessel type must be considered when selecting a PFD.