There are many injury risks for professional fishermen and maritime workers. They have a very physically demanding job. They also work in remote locations and are exposed to the elements.
One issue that some studies have found is that there is a high prevalence of lower back injuries in this industry. There are multiple reasons why lower back pain is often found among maritime workers, to varying degrees of severity.
Heavy physical work
First and foremost, the job can be very physical. Professional fishers have to operate fishing nets, pick up heavy items, handle chains and lines for the ship, and much more. Over time, this can take a toll. A one-time incident, such as overexerting oneself or slipping while straining under a heavy load, could cause a serious spinal cord injury.
The ship’s movements
Additionally, some studies find that the movements of the ship can make lower back pain worse. Not only are people doing repetitive and challenging activities, but they are doing them in an unstable environment.
Even in calm seas, the boat is constantly moving, meaning that workers are continually adjusting. This is more demanding for their spine and musculoskeletal system than working on land.
On top of that, the shifting motion of their environment could cause an injury. A worker who is picking up a heavy load but then slips on a wet deck when a wave crashes into the side of the ship is at greater risk of suffering an injury. In a dry and stable environment, they may have been able to make the same lift without issue.
Addressing maritime injuries
Lower back injuries can lead to severe pain, time out of work and even the need for medical care. Those who have been injured on the job need to know what legal options they have.