You enjoy working on Texas’s open waters as a seaman, but you understand your occupation comes with certain risks. When was the last time you refreshed yourself on common injuries you face in your sector, injuries your employer may bear responsibility for preventing?
SAFETY4SEA explores safety tips and hazards faced while seafaring. Depending on the injury and how it happened, you may have a right to receive compensation from your employer.
Burn injuries
Companies that hire sailors must ensure their employees know of hazards that may cause burn injuries and take steps to minimize risk. That means requiring proper work permits, having safety talks and assessing potential risks. Further, seamen should understand first aid basics for treating burns.
Slips and Falls
Several injuries on water vessels stem from slips, trips and falls. Employers must remain current on the latest safe working practices to protect their crew.
Lifeboat operation
When sailors climb into lifeboats for routine maintenance, proper lashings, gripes, harbor pins and other protective measures keep them from suffering unnecessary harm. Companies must also teach their workforce common lifeboat dangers and proper operational strategies that minimize avoidable harm.
Falling overboard
To keep crews safe from tumbling overboard, they need three contact points while on ladders and a proper grip on stairs. Seamen must also remain aware of their surroundings.
Enclosed spaces
Not only must seafarers work carefully in enclosed spaces, but they must also have the proper permit to work safely. Such spaces must have proper air quality, and employees must know how to protect themselves from gases, fluids and machinery while working.
Seamen must understand their responsibilities for keeping themselves safe and where their companies must step in. Understanding obligations and current laws helps protect workers’ rights while out on the water.