Application of a translational research model to assess the progress of occupational safety research in the international commercial fishing industry

Translating basic science research into population-level health benefits is a challenge in all areas of public health, including occupational safety in the fishing industry. Translational research is a process for developing evidence-based interventions and implementing them in practice. The purpose of this study was to organize the literature on occupational safety in the fishing industry within the T0-T4 phases of translational research to identify areas of strength and consensus, as well as gaps for future translational research to address. A comprehensive search of the English language literature on the topic of occupational safety in the fishing industry was completed. Scientific investigations of safety problems in the fishing industry first appeared in the literature during the 1950s. The bulk of research has focused on descriptive epidemiology in the T0 phase of translational research. A positive trend in recent studies is the growing emphasis on translational research (i.e. the T1-T4 phases). These types of studies aim to move research-to-practice by investigating potential solutions to safety problems and by developing, implementing and evaluating interventions. Recommendations for future translational research include using consistent methods of injury classification and risk analysis, developing interventions targeted at specific problems in the highest-risk fisheries, and addressing the barriers and facilitators to widespread implementation of interventions. Workplace safety in the fishing industry will improve if future research concentrates on identifying and testing promising safety measures that are effective, practical and scalable. Translational research is the key to making progress toward the prevention of work-related injuries in the fishing industry.