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FISH Standard for Crew

The FISH Standard for Crew is a vessel-level certification programme promoting fair working conditions, crew welfare, and responsible labour practices in wild-capture fisheries. Control Union UK provides independent third-party assessment to verify compliance with the standard.

FISH Standard Certification
    Fairness, Integrity, Safety and Health (FISH) Standard for Crew

    About the certification

    The FISH Standard for Crew is a globally recognised, independent certification programme designed to ensure fair, safe, and responsible working conditions for crews in wild-capture fisheries.

    The standard is designed to be practical for fisheries of all sizes, including small-scale operations, and aligns with leading international norms such as ILO conventions, UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.

    As a certification body, Control Union UK provides third-party assessments against the FISH Standard for Crew, helping fisheries demonstrate strong social responsibility practices and meet growing market expectations for ethically sourced seafood.

    Explore the FISH Standard for Crew

    What is the FISH Standard?

    The FISH Standard for Crew is an assurance programme focused on protecting the rights, safety, and welfare of fishers working within wild-capture supply chains. The standard is designed to be practical for fisheries of all sizes, including small-scale operations, and aligns with leading international norms such as ILO conventions, UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries. It addresses key social responsibility issues including:

    The FISH Standard for Crew requires that recruitment practices are transparent, lawful, and free from coercion. This includes ensuring that crew members are not charged excessive recruitment fees, that contracts are clearly explained before departure, and that terms of employment are agreed voluntarily. The standard seeks to prevent forced labour, deceptive recruitment practices, and exploitation at the point of hiring.

    Certified vessels must demonstrate that crew members are treated with dignity and respect. This includes non-discrimination, freedom from harassment or abuse, and clear expectations regarding roles and responsibilities. Working and living conditions onboard must be suitable for the duration and nature of the voyage.

    The standard requires vessels to maintain safe working environments and appropriate safety procedures. This includes access to safety equipment, training in emergency response, accident reporting systems, and compliance with relevant maritime safety requirements. Crew must be aware of emergency procedures and have access to adequate medical provisions.

    Crew members must receive clear, written agreements outlining their employment terms, including payment arrangements and working hours. The standard requires that wages are paid as agreed and that working hours and rest periods are managed in line with applicable laws or recognised good practice. Transparent documentation helps ensure accountability and fair treatment.

    The FISH Standard for Crew requires that crew members have access to mechanisms for raising concerns without fear of retaliation. This may include onboard reporting processes, access to external contacts, or clearly defined complaint procedures. The aim is to ensure issues can be identified and addressed in a timely and fair manner.

    Who is the certification for?

    The FISH Standard for Crew certification applies specifically to wild-capture fishing vessels and vessel operators. Certification is granted at the vessel level, verifying that crew working conditions meet the requirements of the FISH Standard. The certification is therefore suitable for:

    • Wild-capture fishing vessels

    • Vessel owners and operators

    • Fishing companies managing fleets

    • Fleet managers and fishing associations applying on behalf of member vessels

    Benefits of FISH Standard certification

    For certified vessels and operators, FISH Standard for Crew certification offers: For seafood buyers and retailers, vessel-level certification provides added confidence that working conditions onboard certified vessels have been independently assessed.

    • Independent verification of crew welfare practices

    • Alignment with internationally recognised social responsibility expectations

    • Enhanced credibility within global seafood markets

    • Reduced social and reputational risk across supply chains

    • Stronger recruitment and retention through demonstrated ethical practices

    • Compatibility with environmental certifications and responsible sourcing frameworks

    How FISH Standard for Crew Certification Works

    Our certification process is aligned with the FISH Standard for Crew audit protocols and typically includes:

    Application & Planning

    Initial review of vessel operations, crew structure, and scope of assessment.

    Document Review

    Examination of crew contracts, safety procedures, recruitment policies, and related documentation.

    On-Vessel Assessment

    Auditors visit vessels to interview crew members, observe working and living conditions, and verify implementation of policies.

    Audit Findings & Certification Decision

    Results are evaluated, and certification is granted when requirements are met. Corrective actions may be required for any non-conformities.

    Ongoing Monitoring

    Surveillance activities verify that vessels continue to uphold the standard.

    Certified Vessels Register

    In line with the FISH Standard for Crew requirements, Control Union UK maintains a publicly available register of certified vessels. Certification under the FISH Standard for Crew is granted at the vessel level. Only vessels listed below hold a valid certificate. For verification enquiries or further information, please contact our team. [Insert searchable table or link to full register]

    FISH certification register
    FISH Standard Certificate Register

    Why choose Control Union UK?

    Control Union is a trusted global leader in responsible fishing, seafood sustainability, and social compliance certification. We offer:

    • Auditors trained specifically in fisheries labour and social responsibility

    • Experience working with diverse fleets, vessel types, and geographies

    • Efficient, transparent and globally coordinated certification services

    • Strong understanding of supply chain risks and buyer expectations

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