Longshoring and harbor work can be well-paid and rewarding. Professionals may feel a sense of pride because their job functions help keep the domestic economy functioning. They may enjoy the income and benefits that come from a demanding blue-collar career.
Those wages and benefits are a reflection of the danger inherent in the industry. Professionals working at harbors and in close proximity to maritime vessels are at risk of serious injury on the job. They may then have a lengthy process ahead as they pursue financial compensation for their injuries. Being proactive about avoiding job hazards, including the three common risk factors below, could help harbor and longshore workers minimize their risk of career-ending injuries.
What are some of the most common causes of lost-time incidents at harbors?
1. Accidental contact with machinery or equipment
In some cases, containers loaded on vessels could slide and strike workers trying to load or unload a vessel. Other times, they could make accidental contact with the equipment used to load and unload vessels or store containers already removed from ships. Working in close proximity to large ships and heavy equipment is a major safety concern for harbor and longshore workers. Struck-by and caught-between incidents can cause catastrophic or even fatal injuries.
2. Slips, trips and falls
Harbor workers often have to work during times of inclement weather. Wet surfaces naturally occur where vessels dock. Workers could end up falling and injuring themselves on hard surfaces or even falling into the water. Broken bones, soft tissue injuries and brain injuries can all occur after a slip. Workers who go into the water are also at risk of drowning.
3. Chemical exposure
Freight vessels don’t just transport merchandise. They also transport raw materials used for manufacturing, including caustic, radioactive and even carcinogenic materials. Exposure to dangerous substances in the workplace can lead to chemical burns, illness and possibly even cancer in some cases. Longshore and harbor workers could develop significant medical conditions because of their environmental exposure to dangerous substances.
Learning about job risks and worker protections can help professionals protect themselves from injury and respond appropriately after an on-the-job incident. Compensation for medical expenses and lost wages may be available when professionals develop medical challenges because of their longshore or harbor careers.