Offshore Lifeboat Accidents & Injuries
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All offshore oil rigs and vessels are equipped with enough lifeboats to evacuate the entire crew in the event of an emergency. Whether it is a sinking ship or a fire on an offshore rig, crews may have to abandon the vessel on a moment’s notice. To prepare for such an emergency, companies are required to train the crews on how to quickly and safely flee the vessel and board the lifeboats. This is done through lifeboat drills—or “muster drills.”
What Are Lifeboat Drills?
Lifeboat drills are generally conducted prior to the vessel taking off. They train employees how to properly lower the lifeboats from the deck of the vessel and into the water, teach them about maximum occupancy of the lifeboats, and inform them about other safety practices and regulations regarding the process.
Common Causes of Lifeboat Accidents
Although their intended purpose is to teach the crew how to safely lower and load lifeboats, lifeboat drills can be dangerous if not conducted properly.
Here are some of the most common causes of lifeboat accidents:
- Poorly maintained lifeboats or equipment
- Communications failures
- Mechanical malfunctions
- Poor safety training
- Unsafe drill procedures
- Lack of familiarity with the lifeboat equipment
Many of these types of lifeboat accidents are entirely preventable through proper training.
Injuries Sustained in a Lifeboat Accident?
Injuries sustained in a lifeboat accident are usually serious and can even be fatal. If you have been injured or a loved one was killed in a lifeboat accident, you should consult with an experienced maritime lawyer as soon as possible. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you could be entitled to compensation under maritime law. Arnold & Itkin’s team of maritime lawyers helps injured offshore workers all throughout the country. Contact us today for a free consultation about your legal options.