The History of Health and Safety in B.C.’s Shoreworker Industry

Summary

This transcript delves into the history and evolution of the fishing industry on the British Columbia coast. It highlights the industry's early days, driven by Indigenous peoples, and its transformation by European interests through technological advancements like canning. The transcript touches on the multicultural workforce, the harsh working conditions, safety challenges, and the role of unions in advocating for better conditions. Despite the industry's decline, the narrative reflects pride in its legacy and optimism about its future potential, emphasizing the ongoing fight to preserve it.

Takeaways

• 🌊 The fishing industry on the British Columbia coast has been central to local economies for centuries, with Indigenous communities relying on it long before European contact.
• 🐟 The commercial fishing industry boomed after European interests were drawn to the region, catalyzed by the discovery of the rivers' 'gold'—which referred to the abundant salmon populations.
• 🏭 The invention of canning technology revolutionized the fishing industry, establishing numerous canneries along the Fraser River, Central Coast, and Prince Rupert areas to process large fish runs efficiently.
• 👥 The industry was multicultural from the start, with Indigenous men and women forming the backbone of early operations, later joined by immigrants from Norway, Sweden, and Japan.
• ⚠️ Safety was often neglected in fish processing plants, with a high risk of injury due to repetitive motions and dangerous machinery. Safety procedures were minimal, and workers relied on peers for guidance.
• 💪 Union involvement played a critical role in addressing pay equity, health, and safety issues, pushing for improvements and enforcing regulations within the fishing industry.
• 🔧 Studies conducted by UBC highlighted the impact of repetitive motion injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, especially during peak seasons. Implementing varied techniques reduced injury rates.
• 📉 Over time, the fishing industry has declined, with a shift towards processing fish for the cheapest cost and exporting it, which has resulted in job losses and less economic value for local communities.
• 📝 The fight for better safety and labor rights in the fishing industry continues, with efforts to maintain regulations and prevent a regression to past unsafe practices.
• 🌅 Despite the challenges, many workers still see potential in the industry and believe it can sustain coastal communities if resources are managed properly.

Q & A

What role did Indigenous communities play in the early fishing industry on the British Columbia coast?

Indigenous communities were central to the fishing industry on the British Columbia coast before European contact. They fished, traded with other nations, and played a major role as both fishermen and plant workers in the early commercial fishing industry.

How did the discovery of canning technology influence the fishing industry?

The invention of canning technology revolutionized the fishing industry, as it allowed for fish to be preserved and transported over long distances. This led to the establishment of canneries along the major rivers, significantly expanding the scale and commercialization of the industry.

What was the impact of European and other immigrant labor on the fishing industry?

European, particularly Norwegian and Swedish, as well as Japanese immigrants, became key players in the fishing industry over time. Their arrival added to the multicultural workforce and increased production capacity, especially as the industry became more mass-produced and labor-intensive.

What were the working conditions like in the canneries?

Working conditions in the canneries were difficult, with long hours, cold and wet environments, and physically demanding tasks. Workers, including many Indigenous and immigrant laborers, were at risk of injury due to repetitive motions and the dangerous machinery used in the production process.

How were safety issues addressed in the fishing industry?

Safety issues were often neglected in favor of maximizing production, but over time, unions and safety committees pushed for better standards. Studies were conducted, such as one with UBC, to reduce injury rates and introduce safer working techniques. Over the years, improvements were made, though challenges persisted.

What were the challenges related to musculoskeletal injuries in the industry?

Musculoskeletal injuries, particularly carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis, were common due to the repetitive nature of tasks like fish roe popping. Workers often faced resistance from WCB (Workers' Compensation Board) in getting claims accepted, but union efforts led to better recognition and studies to reduce these injuries.

How did gender equality issues manifest in the fishing industry?

In the early years of the commercial fishing industry, women were often paid less than men, despite doing similar work. Pay equity became a significant issue addressed by unions, alongside safety concerns.

How did the decline of the fishing industry affect workers?

As the industry declined, partly due to economic changes and a shift toward less processing and cheaper labor, many workers faced job loss or a reduced income. However, those who worked in the industry remained proud of their contributions and continued to advocate for the protection of the remaining fish stocks and jobs.

What improvements were made in safety standards in the fishing industry over time?

Over time, safety standards improved due to the efforts of unions, safety committees, and studies. Measures like machine guarding and lockout procedures were implemented to reduce accidents. Though enforcement and compliance were still challenges, these changes contributed to a safer work environment.

What is the current outlook for the commercial fishing industry in British Columbia?

While the industry has shrunk and faces challenges, many believe it still has potential. Workers remain optimistic, viewing the industry as viable if efforts are made to protect fish stocks and improve working conditions. Some see it as a 'sunrise' rather than a 'sunset' industry.