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The Icelandic Transport Authority Frontpage
The Icelandic Transport Authority Frontpage

Icelandic Transport Authority

Fishermen´s Safety in Coastal Fishing

12th May 2025

The coastal fishing season has begun, and the safety of fishermen is a top priority. Various preparations have been made to ensure the best possible prevention of accidents at sea.

Special focus on life rafts

The Icelandic Transport Authority and inspection stations have jointly emphasised that safety equipment must comply with regulations. In preparation for the season, ICETRA conducted spot checks on over 150 small boats, with particular attention to their rubber life rafts. The location and secure storage of these rafts is critical to ensure they are easily accessible and can be deployed quickly in an emergency.

Small boat safety materials in one place

A coordinated safety webpage for fishermen has been launched. It contains instructions, checklists, and educational videos designed to support preparation and raise awareness of safety issues at sea.

Aggan app increases safety

The safety app Aggan, launched last year with support from the Maritime Safety Council, has attracted attention among fishermen. Around 300 boats have already started using it. Aggan contains, among other features, the Icelandic Transport Authority´s safety checklist that supports the preparation of a risk assessment on board.

Education with Þröstur Leó

This summer, the Icelandic Transport Authority, in collaboration with ICE-SAR and the National Association of Small Boat Owners, will participate in an educational campaign focused on safety equipment and emergency responses. Actor and seaman Þröstur Leó Gunnarsson will review the use of life jackets, communication tools, emergency ladders, placement of emergency equipment, lifebuoys, and life rafts.

New educational brochure on maritime communications

A new educational brochure on VHF radio communications has been released. Its goal is to help fishermen refresh their knowledge on how to report their position and request assistance if needed.