Avoid Hazards of Ship Work in Icy Conditions

Among the many dangers that face maritime workers is the danger of injury during icy weather conditions. Maritime attorneys at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P., Accident & Injury Lawyers note that slip and fall injuries that result from icy conditions aboard a vessel can be severe.

Avoiding Hazards of Icy Ship Decks

When the weather drops below freezing, a wet deck can turn treacherous for those working aboard a vessel. It’s up to the ship’s owner or the employer of the seamen working the vessel to minimize the risks of injury.

If your employer fails to take measures to protect you from injury, they may be held liable for your injuries. There are a number of measures employers and vessel owners can take to protect their workers, including:

• Put down salt or sand over icy areas
• Give workers ice grips for their shoes
• Install grating on the ship’s deck before facing icy conditions
• Not require seamen to perform non-emergency work in icy conditions

When a mariner slips on an icy deck, there are a number of injuries that our maritime attorneys commonly see, such as:

• Broken bones
• Back injuries
• Injuries to the spinal cord
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

If you’ve been injured as a result of icy conditions aboard a vessel, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and other damages. Contact Schechter, Shaffer & Harris today to schedule a free consultation and learn your rights.