Working on an oil rig is demanding and comes with significant risks. Understanding common injuries in this environment can help maritime workers recognize hazards and take preventative measures. Slips, trips, and falls One of the most prevalent hazards on oil rigs involves slipping, tripping, or falling. Wet surfaces, uneven decks, and obstacles contribute to these incidents. Falls can cause injuries ranging from dented pride and minor bruises to severe fractures or head injuries. Workers should always be mindful of their footing and ensure that walkways remain clear of obstructions. Equipment ..read more

Working offshore presents unique challenges. Unlike a typical land-based job, injuries can occur miles from shore, and the legal landscape can be just as complex as the ever-changing seas. If you’re injured while working offshore, understanding the difference between maritime law and workers’ compensation is crucial to ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve. Workers’ comp: A familiar shore Most people are familiar with workers’ compensation. It’s a system that provides financial benefits and medical coverage to injured employees. However, there’s a crucial catch: workers’ compensation g ..read more

Cruise ships offer travelers a way to explore exotic destinations. However, beneath this fun lies the lurking threat of serious viruses. Understanding how these viruses spread onboard can help passengers. Close quarters One reason serious viruses spread so quickly on cruise ships is the closeness of passengers and crew. With thousands of individuals sharing confined spaces like cabins, dining areas and entertainment venues, viruses can easily jump from one person to another. Shared surfaces Another factor contributing to the spread of serious viruses is the frequent contact with shared surface ..read more

When fishing boat workers head out to sea, they face many challenges, including the risk of injury. In such cases, understanding maritime law becomes important. Maritime law, also known as admiralty law, deals with legal matters concerning activities on the water. This includes navigation, commerce and transportation. For fishing boat workers, it means there are specific rules in place to protect their rights and safety while working at sea. Jones Act If a worker sustains an injury while working on a fishing boat, they may obtain compensation under maritime law. However, they have to meet cert ..read more

Working at sea can be both thrilling and demanding. However, maritime workers encounter challenges that other people may often overlook. From the dangers of the open ocean to the complexities of maritime law, these individuals face many issues in their day-to-day lives. These are some of the distinctive challenges that maritime workers deal with regularly. Isolation and loneliness One of the most significant challenges faced by maritime workers is the sense of isolation and loneliness that accompanies life at sea. Spending extended periods away from friends and family can take a toll on mental ..read more

Engaging in maritime work presents unique challenges and risks. The fatal injury rate among maritime workers also surpasses that of other industries by quite a bit. This heightened risk is often due to the nature of maritime activities, where workers face a variety of dangers.  Vessel accidents and exposure to hazardous materials are among them. Exposure to asbestos, a mineral common in maritime settings, which can lead to the development of mesothelioma, is also a concern. Understanding these risks helps promote safety measures and improve the overall well-being of maritime workers. High ..read more

If you work on a ship, you need to know about the Jones Act, also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920. Senator Wesley Jones was the original sponsor of this act. This legislation regulates sea transport operations within or into the United States and other aspects of the marine industry. One of these aspects is to help injured seamen bring action against their employers. What types of claims are available under the Jones Act? There are two basic types of claims under the Jones Act. The first is a negligence claim against an employer. Under the Jones Act, a seaman, also known as a person w ..read more

Maritime environments have inherent dangers, though modern regulations have provided strides toward safety improvements. Despite that progress, injuries and accidents occur. Recognizing common hazards can make you more attentive to risks. There are a few frequent causes of maritime injuries. Environmental threats Severe weather and natural disasters pose significant safety threats in maritime environments. Debris, slippery surfaces and high winds increase the risk of injuries without proper precautions. Follow comprehensive weather reporting to recognize severe weather threats. Regulatory comp ..read more

Working in the maritime industry comes with inherent risks, and knowing how to respond if injured in a work accident is essential for your well-being and potential compensation. Here are the most important actions to take if you get an injury while on a crab fishing boat. Prioritize safety and seek immediate medical attention If you get injured while working on a crab fishing boat, assess the severity of your injury and seek immediate medical attention. Inform your fellow crew members or supervisor about the incident, ensuring someone is aware of your injury and can provide assistance. Prompt ..read more

In every occupation, employers must adhere to safety regulations, and maritime work is no exception. When shipowners fail to keep their vessels seaworthy, they may be liable for employee injuries under the Jones Act. Maintaining a seaworthy ship requires diligence in many areas. Maintaining equipment and parts On a seaworthy vessel, all parts and equipment must be “reasonably fit” for their purpose. The owner must provide safety equipment, first aid supplies and lifeboats and ensure that they are in good condition. This does not mean that all parts of the ship must be brand new or flawless; ho ..read more