Skipper fined $1500 for failure to notify Maritime NZ of serious injury
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Reginald Stephens, a commercial fishing skipper, has been fined $1500 by the Nelson District Court for failing to notify Maritime NZ of serious injury on-board a ship.
Stephens was convicted of failure to comply with the Maritime Transport Act, which makes it an obligation to notify all accidents. He was also ordered to pay court costs of $130.
On 10 January 2021, a crew member had two fingertips severed in a pulley while working aboard the FV Remus. As the master of the FV Remus, Stephens had an obligation to report the incident to Maritime NZ, which he failed to do.
Maritime NZ deputy compliance manager south, John Drury, said under maritime law, skippers have a responsibility to report all accidents.
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“This case reiterates the importance that skippers notify Maritime NZ of any incidents as soon as possible.
“Having incidents recorded in a timely way means we have a more accurate understanding of what’s occurred and are aware of common risks and hazards.
“As a regulator, we use this information to help educate the sector, minimise harm and keep people safe,” he said.
Further court action is proceeding against others involved.
