Residents and businesses of Southern California may want to know more about how longshoremen receive coverage under the workers’ compensation law. Injuries in this type of work happen, so those who work in shipping, as well as their families, will want to know more.
What does this act do?
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act is responsible for handling cases in this industry, which has administration by the Division of Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation. This law provides compensation for those who work on the navigable waters of the United States. It includes adjoining areas, usually used by boats and ships for the following:
• Loading
• Unloading
• Repairing
• Building
Workers may receive payment from the self-insured employer or by private insurance for the employer. Occupational injuries, such as hearing loss, have coverage when they arise from the work.
Who receives coverage?
Longshore workers, ship-repairers, shipbuilders or ship-breakers, and harbor construction workers receive coverage under this legislation. Injuries must occur on the water or adjoining areas, such as docks, piers, wharves, terminals, and places used for loading and unloading ships.
What are the extensions?
These are additions to LHWCA to include other types of work, such as work on an offshore drilling platform, private employers on U.S. military bases, or work done for the military. Work done outside the U.S. is also included when a personal injury occurs while working for the military.
Certain people may receive exclusion. The following are not part of the LHWCA:
• Seamen, meaning masters or members of a crew of any vessel
• Employees of the government
• Employees who receive injury through intoxication
• Employees who purposely try to harm themselves
These provisions of the LHWCA help longshore workers to receive compensation for injuries around shipping and the seas. The law is specific to this type of work and will provide assistance when an injury occurs.