Small Fishing Vessel Safety Manual - Transports Canada

Loading and unloading operations have a dramatic effect on stability. For
example, when a heavy load is lifted clear of the water it has the same
effect on the vessel’s centre of gravity as if the weight were actually at the
head of the boom. The vessel will also heel. All such operations should
proceed with extreme caution.
Heavy icing, especially when it accumulates, will seriously affect stability.
In severe conditions it is very dangerous. If icing occurs, all fishing gear
should be recovered and secured as low as possible on deck. Speed should
be reduced, and the vessel turned downwind if possible. If crew are sent on
deck, they should have safety lines attached. If possible, ice should be
removed from upper structures.
STABILITY 29
Loading and
Unloading
Icing
Conditions