An operational risk management approach for small fishing vessel

•A novel framework that integrates evolving accident scenarios with risk control is proposed.•The framework incorporates Bayesian probability theory to address uncertainties in risk management strategies.•A case study demonstrating use of operational risk management in the West African region's is presented. Human error is at the core of most preventable casualties in the maritime domain, and often not related to the specific individual. Hence to better understand human error there is the need to understand the contribution that human factors make to system success and safety. In this study, we introduce a novel framework that integrates evolving fishing vessel accident scenarios with risk control options, incorporating Bayesian network modeling and the Dempster-Shafer theory to address uncertainties within risk management strategies. To illustrate the practical application of our integrated approach, we present a case study focused on operational risk management within the West African region's small fishing vessel industry. This research contributes to the field of system safety and engineering by offering a structured and adaptable methodology to enhance safety measures in small fishing vessel operations, ultimately mitigating potential hazards and safeguarding lives and assets.