Common types of shipboard accidents

On Behalf of | Oct 10, 2020 | Maritime Law

Whether you work about a ship or take cruises, it’s imperative that you familiarize yourself with some of the more common safety hazards that you’ll face while you’re on the water. This can help you remain safe, and it can also help you keep others around you safe.

You have to be careful of the slippery surface of the deck. There’s a chance that you could fall and injure yourself. There’s also the risk of going overboard. Some people think that falling overboard will happen primarily in rough seas, but this isn’t the case. Instead, around 90% of crew members fall overboard when the weather is so clam that there is less than a one-foot chop.

Water and electricity don’t mix, so you always need to be careful if you’re using electricity on a ship. Check the deck to ensure that there isn’t water in a spot where it will contact the equipment or the connections.

Improper ventilation is another hazard on a ship. Making sure that there is fresh air coming in to confined spaces if there are fumes or chemicals being used.

Explosions are also possible when you’re at sea. This can come from crankcases and many other components of the ship. Anyone working around these areas should take proper precautions to avoid issues.

If you’re injured while you’re on the water, you need to seek medical care. You also need to learn about the options that you have for seeking compensation. Your status on the ship, such as being a passenger or a crew member, can have an impact on what options you have. Working closely with a lawyer experienced in this area of law can help you assert your right to recover damages.