Maritime workers face unique occupational hazards and a high risk of injury each day. These risks increase when you work on the water rather than on waterfront facilities. Aside from fatigue and the rough waves, the heavy equipment on commercial maritime ships adds another layer of danger and risk to your job.
Potential maritime equipment injuries
A large factor contributing to heavy equipment malfunction at sea is the challenging environment. Daily wear and tear can cause the equipment to fail and become defective and unsafe. Machinery or equipment failure may lead to fires, explosions and overboard crewmembers.
In turn, these can cause serious injuries, such as:
- Severe burns
- Fractured bones
- Spinal trauma
- Internal bleeding
- Amputations
- Lacerations
- Hearing loss or damage
Key equipment maintenance practices
Proper equipment management and timely equipment maintenance help prevent sudden equipment failure. Below are four equipment maintenance and management practices that may help lower your occupational injury risk:
- Conduct regular equipment inspections: As much as possible, make time to inspect your equipment before using it at the start of your shift and afterward to make sure everything is functioning properly.
- Keep logs of repairs and inspections: Documenting repairs, replacements and inspections helps you and your fellow seamen make sure that you’ve done your part to maintain safety on the ship. Moreover, detailed logs may also help you support your claim if you sustain an injury on the job.
- Ensure every crew member receives training: Proper training is crucial to make sure you are all using the equipment properly and know how to do basic repairs or maintenance. These can help reduce wear and tear and help you recognize early signs of equipment malfunction.
- Schedule planned maintenance: Most equipment comes with manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules. These help you catch problems early and prevent unexpected breakdowns at sea.
Know your rights in case of maritime injury
While it is your employer’s obligation to ensure all the equipment works properly and is safe to use, it is also important to do your part. After all, accidents can still happen even after properly maintaining equipment.
If you sustain an injury due to equipment failure, it’s prudent to seek legal counsel. A maritime law attorney can help you understand your rights better and assist you in filing for compensation.