BC Fishing Shoreworker Safety, Video, 2019
This 11-minute video provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the fishing industry in British Columbia, focusing on the evolution of health and safety for shoreworkers.
Key points covered in the video include:
● Historical Context: The video traces the origins of fishing in British Columbia back to the First Nations. The commercial industry flourished with European interest and the invention of food canning.
● Multicultural Workforce and Industry Boom: The industry was highly diverse, with Indigenous men and women, joined by European and Asian workers, formed a significant part of the workforce. The period was characterized by mass production and good pay due to unionization.
● Challenging Work Conditions: Despite the good pay, the work was physically demanding, with workers standing for long hours in cold, wet conditions. Machine-related injuries were common, and safety was often overlooked.
● Advocacy for Health and Safety: The United Fishermen and Allied Workers Union (UFAWU) pushed for better safety. Health and safety committees were established, addressing issues like pay equity and workplace hazards.
● Groundbreaking UBC Study: A study confirmed a correlation between workplace activities and conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, leading to improved techniques and a reduction in injury rates.
This video was produced by WorkSafeBC for the BC Labour Heritage Centre.