How Does USL&H Protect Workers in Transition Seasons?

Spring and fall mark critical shifts in operations that affect vessel maintenance, crew schedules, and exposure to USL&H risks. These transitional periods often lead to coverage gaps or overlooked liabilities that can impact commercial marine insurance. It’s also when businesses should reassess their commercial marine programs to stay aligned with seasonal demands.

USL&H provides essential protection for maritime workers during seasonal transitions when activity levels shift and risks increase. These periods often bring unpredictable conditions that heighten the chances of workplace injuries, especially in and around docks, shipyards, and terminals. 

USL&H fills critical gaps that standard workers’ compensation policies often miss, particularly in the marine environment, where unique risks exist. This coverage ensures that injured workers are protected and receive the proper benefits for their medical needs and lost wages.

What Does USL&H Cover?

USL&H refers to the U.S. Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, which provides coverage for land-based maritime workers involved in loading, unloading, repairing, or building vessels. It fills the gap where traditional workers’ compensation may not apply, especially for those working near or around navigable waters. 

During seasonal transitions, risks increase due to slippery decks, shifting equipment needs, and unpredictable weather conditions that make working on the water more dangerous. These hazards are compounded by the changing operational demands, which require heightened awareness and preparation. 

USL&H coverage becomes especially important during these periods. It provides essential protection when workplace hazards are more frequent and harder to control.

Seasonal Hazards for Marine Workers

Seasonal changes introduce a variety of hazards that can compromise the safety of marine workers. These risks are heightened by factors such as weather shifts, fluctuating water levels, and changing operational conditions.

In spring, melting ice, rising water levels, and consistently wet surfaces create slippery conditions. Storm activity, shorter daylight hours, and sudden temperature shifts in fall add to the risk, all contributing to a higher likelihood of slips, trips, and falls.

Why Agents Should Address Seasonal Gaps Proactively

Agents should take a proactive approach to addressing seasonal coverage gaps before they lead to claims, ensuring clients are always protected. Assuming coverage isn’t necessary during off-peak seasons can leave clients exposed to unforeseen risks, especially when operations continue year-round. 

Relying on seasonal assumptions or outdated beliefs can be dangerous. In some cases, these beliefs overlook the real hazards that arise during unpredictable weather, fluctuating water levels, and shifting equipment needs.

Offering comprehensive, uninterrupted policies helps ensure that protection doesn’t lapse when unexpected issues arise. It’s also important to educate clients about risk during “non-peak” times, when hazards may be less obvious but still significant.

Help Clients Weather the Changes

Agents can consult with Merrimac Marine to navigate seasonal risks and address USL&H exposures. Our team offers guidance on commercial marine insurance and helps tailor commercial marine programs to fit each client’s operational cycle.

Merrimac Marine offers flexible programs designed to match the unique needs of marine businesses throughout the year. Our tailored approach helps protect clients from seasonal risks that standard policies might overlook. Contact us to learn how Merrimac Marine can help your clients navigate seasonal risks with comprehensive USL&H coverage.

About Merrimac Marine Insurance

At Merrimac Marine, we are dedicated to providing insurance for the marine industry to protect your clients’ businesses and assets. For more information about our products and programs, contact our specialists today at (800) 681-1998.