Labour in fisheries: Task analysis of fishing operations on a Norwegian trawler

Abstract

This study investigates the labour on a Norwegian trawler through the study of tasks that are performed under the trawling operation. Study of tasks is one of the fundamental approaches to studying labour, and in this thesis, it is carried out using the technique of Hierarchical Task Analysis. This task analysis technique has been broadly and universally used in different industries for over 60 years. Hierarchical Task Analysis represents the system of labour tasks and goals that are achieved by performing the tasks, creating an objective picture of labour on a fishing vessel, and visually represents them as a hierarchical system of plans of tasks. After identifying and describing the tasks, each of these tasks is investigated further in terms of talk allocation, character of performance, and number of performers required to complete a task. Hierarchal task analysis contributes significantly to the system description, system investigation and system design. It discovers the tasks and human-machinery interventions, risks for operators’ mistakes. This approach is seen as translational and fundamental for disciplines that concern labour in direct or indirect way, therefore the findings of the study are discussed from the perspective of complementing present labour research and further utilization in safety studies, autonomation and other topics.