When you work in the maritime industry, you understand that safety is not just a priority but a necessity. A necessity refers to something essential and unavoidable. It is a requirement that must be met no matter what. On the other hand, a priority is something you...
Commercial Seamen
Common hazards on tugboats
Workers on heavy-duty tugboat vessels face significant hazards on each shift. Mitigating those hazards is critical to avoiding catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Understanding the common hazards that these workers may face gives the hardworking men and women on...
What injuries are eligible under the Jones Act?
Seamen endure much in their line of work. From working on fishing vessels in rough seas and maintaining cargo ship decks to operating tugboats in busy harbors, they face significant risks every day. Exposure to harsh weather conditions, hazardous materials and...
What makes a vessel unseaworthy?
When you step onto a vessel as a commercial seaman, you expect it to be a safe place to work. However, not every ship meets the necessary safety standards, and you may find yourself in dangerous conditions that the law considers "unseaworthy." The concept of...
What happens if I get injured while working in heavy weather?
Working as a seafarer has its share of risks and hazards. During the storm season in California, the weather drastically changes, involving heavy rain, strong wind, high surf, thunderstorms and flooding. While working in an unpredictable setting like the seas, your...
What does the Stop Work Authority mean for seamen?
Seamen operate in a unique and challenging environment where their safety can easily be compromised. The maritime industry presents various risks and hazards, making it crucial for seamen to have mechanisms in place to address safety concerns promptly. One such...
2 things seamen should know about the LHWCA
Navigating maritime employment involves understanding the legal frameworks that protect seamen and harbor workers. Among these, the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) stands out as a crucial piece of legislation. The LHWCA, enacted in 1927,...
Maintenance, cure and unearned wages in a maritime claim
If you are a maritime worker, you may be entitled to several benefits if you’re injured in a workplace accident. The primary benefits to which you are likely entitled are maintenance, cure and unearned wages. Maintenance One of the benefits of working at sea is that...
The most common maritime injury scenarios
Maritime safety affects the well-being of passengers aboard vessels, the crew as well as residents who live and work near water bodies. Since the sea is inherently hazardous, provisions have been made to mitigate the risks of injuries and fatalities. For instance, the...
Safety when commercial divers are in the water
Safety is paramount when commercial divers are in the water near the vessel. The water may be a workplace for these professionals, but it's also an environment filled with potential hazards. Proper safety measures are mandated by law to ensure the well-being of divers...