May 10, 2017
The marine field has long been a staple of our Alaskan economy, and shipyard workers are a major part of this growing industry. We appreciate the hard work and long hours so many put in to keep our ports moving along and new ships built. Shipyard work is hard work and not for the faint of heart. It comes with some significant work hazards including:
Challenging Working Conditions
Working as a shipyard worker is choosing to work in constantly dangerous, extreme conditions. There are many, many factors to consider from weather to the sheer size of the ships and equipment moving all around you.
Machinery Hazards
Almost everything in a shipyard is on a large scale. For example, one of the biggest propellers in the world was produced for the Emma Maersk, a behemoth of a container ship. The propeller is 1,302 feet tall! That is just about the same size at the One World Trade Center in New York City, which is the largest building in the Western Hemisphere! For shipyard safety, it is vital that workers stay vigilant and aware of what is happening around them at all times.
Slips & Falls
Alaska is known for its extreme weather conditions, and this has a dramatic effect on safety in shipyards. Bad weather can make scaffolding treacherous but so can water, oil, and other fluids that come off of the ship. Considering what people in shipyards are working with including welding machines, large shipping containers, ship parts, etc., even the smallest slip can spell disaster.
The environment adds another level of danger as well. A slip and fall could mean falling in icy cold water or between ships. Shipyard workers always have to aware of where they are stepping and the conditions in which they are working.
Dangerous Chemicals
Ships often transport dangerous and toxic chemicals. Manufacturers and importers are required to correctly label what is transported. That being said, workers can be exposed if containers were damaged during transport, or something was not labeled correctly.
If you’re interested in the next five hazardous things shipyard workers face, check out our blog later this month.
Shipyard workers are vital for continued maritime industry and while it’s a dangerous job, we are thankful for those who are willing to take it on. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed while working in a shipyard, there are laws in place to help and provide for them and you. If you have questioned it is important you reach out to your local maritime legal professional.