For maritime crews, hurricane season brings unique challenges that require careful preparation and vigilant attention to severe weather protocols. While land-based workers can seek shelter or evacuate when severe weather approaches, seamen must often ride out the hurricane, relying on their vessel, skills, and crew members to stay safe.
As maritime injury lawyers, we understand the importance of having comprehensive severe weather protocols, evacuation procedures, and vessel securing measures in place. When these systems fail, seamen pay the price.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the risks you face, the key components of an effective hurricane readiness strategy for maritime vessels, and what to do if you’re hurt at sea.
Hurricanes at Sea: Five Risks for Seamen
Before we discuss how to stay safe in a hurricane, it’s essential to understand the risks you face during a hurricane at sea. These risks include:
- High winds. High winds can create hazardous working conditions on deck, with powerful gusts knocking seamen off balance or sweeping unsecured objects into their path. Extra precautions must be taken when working at heights or near the edge of the vessel.
- Rough seas. Rough seas generated by hurricane-force winds can cause a vessel to pitch and roll violently. Seamen may struggle to keep their footing. There's also a risk of seamen being thrown against walls, railings, or equipment.
- Storm surge. Storm surge can push a vessel into structures or cause a vessel grounding. Seamen may be crushed between the vessel and another object or thrown overboard into churning waters.
- Flooding. Heavy rains and high waves may cause flooding. Water on the vessel can cause slips and falls, sweep seamen overboard, interfere with the vessel’s operating systems, and impact the vessel's stability.
- Flying debris. Hurricane-force winds can lift objects into the air. Broken glass, metal, tools, and other objects can cause serious injuries.
These risks can result in serious injuries or fatalities. However, severe weather protocols can prevent some injuries and deaths.
Developing a Hurricane Emergency Plan
A maritime employer should have a comprehensive hurricane emergency plan customized to the unique needs of each vessel and its crew. At a minimum, the plan should include:
- Hurricane holes. Designated hurricane holes are safe harbors where vessels can shelter from the storm. Hurricane holes should be identified before a storm, and criteria should be established so everyone knows when to head to a hurricane hole.
- Evacuation protocols. Evacuation procedures should outline when and how to evacuate non-essential personnel. Additionally, systems should be in place to track who is onboard if the vessel must ride out the storm.
- Crew training. Everyone onboard needs to understand their roles and responsibilities during a hurricane.
- Vessel securing procedures. These procedures detail how deck cargo, equipment, and structures will be secured or removed.
- Interior securing measures. Objects, including equipment, furniture, and personal belongings, must be secured.
- Backup communication systems. Primary communication systems may fail during a storm, so satellite phones, emergency radios, or other backup communication systems are critical.
A thorough risk assessment before any hurricane threat is essential to create a comprehensive and effective hurricane emergency plan.
Recovering from the Storm
After the hurricane passes, the hard work of recovery begins. Seamen may be at increased risk of injuries while assessing damage, making repairs, and bringing operations back online. To stay safe:
- Document damages carefully. Take photos and videos of any damage before attempting repairs. This documentation may be necessary if injury claims arise later.
- Check for stability issues. Assess whether the vessel has taken on water or shifted cargo in a way that impacts its center of gravity.
- Ventilate interior spaces. Run fans or dehumidifiers to dry out damp interior areas to prevent mold growth and damage to electrical systems.
- Watch for overhead hazards. Be alert for hanging wires, unstable deck equipment, and damaged structures that could collapse.
- Avoid electrical hazards. Do not use electrical equipment that has been submerged until it can be dried and inspected. Use caution when standing in water.
Recovery work can be strenuous, especially in hot and humid conditions after a storm. Accordingly, watching for signs of heat illness, dehydration, and fatigue is essential.
What to Do if You’re Hurt in a Hurricane at Sea
By following an organized risk assessment process, developing severe weather protocols, and carefully planning recovery work, maritime employers can protect their crews from hurricane-related injuries and quickly get back on course after the storm has passed.
However, sometimes, injuries still happen.
Knowing your rights under maritime law is essential if you've been hurt in a hurricane while working at sea. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages under the Jones Act or other maritime laws.
An experienced maritime injury lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options based on your unique situation.
It's essential to act quickly if you've been hurt on the job, as there are strict deadlines for filing claims under maritime law. Be sure to report your injury to your supervisor right away and seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Keep detailed records of your injuries, treatment, and expenses; this documentation will be essential for building your case.
By understanding the risks you face at sea and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your legal rights, you can weather any storm—a hurricane raging outside or a battle for fair compensation for your injuries.
