The work physiology of fishing

Circulatory strain, energy output and urinary catecholamine excretion were determined in 24 coastal, 6 trawler, 5 bank and 3 capelin fishermen. From these studies it is evident that fishing may represent hard physical work. However, if properly organized with job rotation and adequate creq numbers, it may, in some respects, be comparable with many occupations ashore. The introduction of mechanization and automation has led to increased tempo and greater stress. Consequently, the older fishermen, due to declining physical work capacity, may find it difficult to keep up with their younger colleagues. Yet, the official Norwegian statistics show that the percentage of older fishermen is increasing.