Statistics show that a worker is 20 times more likely to be killed at work in the fishing industry than in construction, traditionally considered to be a hazardous industry.

The death of a 26-year-old man off Jurien on Sunday morning has once again highlighted the dangers of the fishing industry.

WorkSafe Western Australia Commissioner Brian Bradley said today that the fishing industry had what amounted to an unacceptable number of deaths.

"The WA fishing industry employs a total of only 3500 people, but it has suffered 10 fatalities over the past five years," he said.

"The construction industry has also suffered 10 fatalities over the past five years, but that industry employs around 80,000 people.

"The tragedy in this is that these deaths could have been avoided if the proper safety measures had been taken by all concerned.

"The WA Fishing Industry Council has established an industry code of practice for fishing, but it seems that the safety message is still not getting through."

Mr Bradley singled out the setting of pots, diving and electricity as major areas of concern in the fishing industry.

Several fatalities have resulted from deckhands getting tangled in ropes and being dragged overboard, a situation that can be avoided with good work practices with regard to ropes, winches and pots.

Commercial and recreational diving are covered under several areas of law, including the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and the strict guidelines that apply should be adhered to at all times.

Divers need to be medically certified as fit to dive, and be fully trained and qualified to use SCUBA equipment.

The use of electricity on boats has also resulted in tragic fatalities, and owners need to be aware that residual current devices (RCDs) must be installed on boats, the same as in any other workplace.

Mr Bradley also expressed concern about the level of training provided on boats.

"We have real concerns about the training being provided because so many young people go to work on boats, and many are given little or no training," he said.

"The bottom line really is that if all fishing vessels adhere to the fishing industry's code of practice - especially with regard to training and induction - we can avoid any further tragic incidents."

From: Department of Consumer and Employment Protection

http://www.safetyline.wa.gov.au