Question 1

For fishing vessels of 12m registered length up to less than 15m LOA, what additional stability provision does MGN 281(F) require, beyond the basic small vessel Code requirements?

Accepted Answer

Approved stability information appropriate to the vessel's intended operation, to MCA satisfaction — a more formal standard than the simplified Wolfson approach used for smaller vessels As vessel size and complexity increase within the small-vessel band, MGN 281(F) steps up the stability assessment standard for 12-15m vessels to require approved, operation-specific stability information, reflecting the greater range of loading conditions and gear configurations these vessels may encounter compared to the smallest craft.

Question 2

What is the principal cause of fatal accidents on UK fishing vessels, according to the long-running pattern identified by MAIB investigations?

Accepted Answer

Capsize or foundering, very often linked to loss of stability while hauling or shooting gear, downflooding through open or unsecured openings, or overloading Capsize/foundering, frequently triggered by a stability event during gear hauling/shooting (e.g. a snagged trawl pulling the vessel over) combined with downflooding through an open door, hatch, or freeing port, is the single most consistent cause of fishing vessel loss of life in UK waters — which is why the Small Fishing Vessel Code places such heavy emphasis on stability and watertight integrity.

Question 3

What is the "Wolfson Method" used for under the Code of Practice for the Safety of Fishing Vessels less than 15m LOA?

Accepted Answer

A simplified stability assessment method, developed for small fishing vessels, used to generate practical stability guidance (the Wolfson Stability Notice) without requiring a full naval-architect inclining experiment The Wolfson Method was developed (by the Wolfson Unit) specifically to give owners of small fishing vessels — who may not have access to full naval architecture support — a practical, affordable way to assess and demonstrate their vessel's stability, with the output displayed aboard as the Wolfson Stability Notice.