Protect Yourself from Offshore Accident and Injury with these Safety Tips

Are the financial benefits, flexibility, and adventure of a career working offshore appealing to you? There’s no doubt working offshore can pay quite well with some impressive off-time between shifts. However, offshore work ranks among the most dangerous jobs on the planet. You can protect yourself from offshore accident and injury with a few safety tips.

What makes offshore work so dangerous? Between the heavy equipment, rough weather and various machine and chemical hazards, the potential for accidents and serious injury can be a great deal higher than in other professions.

The good news is, thanks to government rules and policies–and the recent creation of an offshore oil- and gas-industry-sponsored group focused exclusively on offshore safety–it’s easier to maintain a safer environment in such a risky career

If you or someone you know works offshore, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety Tips on Rigs

First and most importantly: human error causes an overwhelming number of offshore accidents. Know your safety standards by heart and be aware of your surroundings at all times. And if you see anything? Say something!

In addition, spills are another common onboard hazard. The offshore oil and gas industry focuses heavily on preventing spills but also responding quickly to minimize damages when a spill occurs.

A few more critical ways to protect yourself:

• Wear protective eyewear whenever handling hazardous equipment. This can save your eyes from unnecessary debris or chemicals.
• Keep your gloves on around hot equipment and sharp objects. But beware of serious injury caused by moving machinery where gloves can get stuck.
• Put on your hard hat and steel-toe boots wherever it’s required. While head and foot injuries are less common, you can easily prevent them with protective gear.
• Stay fit. Back injuries—though frequent—can be avoided with proper knowledge and positioning. If something is too heavy, don’t overdo it. Working out and building strength can be beneficial for a physically demanding job.

Safety Tips on Boats

The most common offshore boat accidents occur on sea vessels, barges, tug boats, dive boats, and charter boats. Negligence, employee error or poor management have led to many injuries, even death.

Common vessel-related injuries to be aware of:

Equipment failure—salt water is hard on offshore equipment and malfunction can cause burns, electrocution and crush injuries.

Cable and deck strikes—handling heavy loads with fast-moving cables can cause crush injuries and skin burns. Stay up-to-date on safety procedures.

Slips and falls—prevention is key. Wear nonslip shoes, use handrails and bring attention to slippery decks.

Protect Yourself from Offshore Accident and Injury

The hazards of working as a maritime employee at sea, near coastal waters or inland waterways bring the chance of suffering an offshore injury. A horrific accident can be life-changing. Always have a plan to prevent injury while on the clock. Offshore accidents don’t always involve one person, so be on the lookout. Follow these safety tips to protect you from offshore accident and injury and to keep yourself and your team safe!

Thankfully, the Jones Act protects offshore employees. This law makes it possible for seamen who have been injured during the course and scope of their employment or family members who have lost a loved one to attain the financial help they need. Accidents happen, and an experienced Jones Act Attorney can protect you and your rights!

If you or someone you know has experienced an offshore injury call Shlosman Law Firm today. Tom Shlosman is a maritime injury attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana, who can help you understand your rights, explore your options and navigate the complications of an injury claim. Call 504-826-9427 for your free evaluation.