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Different types of employees require different types of coverage.
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The marine insurance expertise you need to adequately cover your business.
If your business is operating in the maritime industry in the US, it’s important to understand your potential USL&H insurance obligations and requirements. MHG’s marine insurance team will assist and determine your company’s risk and exposure. By working with MHG, you can rest assured, the coverage you have is exactly what is needed. And, if you experience a claim, we will guide you through the process to be sure the claim is filed correctly so that your employee can begin receiving benefits quickly.
Worker’s Compensation style coverage for employees engaged in maritime operations.
The US Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act (USL&H) is a federal worker’s compensation law for maritime employees working on or over the navigable waters of the US. Typically, employees subject to this Act are not eligible for coverage under state workers' compensation due to the marine exposure of their work. They’re also not eligible for Jones Act coverage due to the lack of seamen status. USL&H was designed to fill this coverage gap. USL&H provides medical expenses and disability benefits for work-related injuries and occupational diseases. If your employees are engaged in maritime operations as defined by the Act, you’re required by law to provide USL&H coverage.
A specific class of employees that undertake work on or adjacent to the navigable waters of the US.
Depending on the nature of your business and the activities performed by your employees, you may require USL&H coverage. Coverage can be customized for:
While both federal statutes affect maritime employers and employees alike, there are important differences to be aware of. Maritime Workers Compensation or USL&H covers employees working on or adjacent to the navigable waters of the U.S. The Jones Act pertains to injury, illness, and death of seafarers working aboard vessels in navigation in international waters, which is excluded under USL&H. You cover this risk by either endorsing a protection & indemnity policy with crew liability (for crew aboard owned vessels) or purchasing a marine employers’ liability insurance (for crew aboard non-owned vessels).
While both federal statutes affect maritime employers and employees alike, there are important differences to be aware of. Maritime Workers’ Compensation or USL&H covers employees working on or adjacent to the navigable waters of the U.S. The Jones Act pertains to injury, illness, and death of seafarers working aboard vessels in navigation in international waters, which is excluded under USL&H. You cover this risk by either endorsing a Protection & Indemnity policy with Crew Liability (for crew aboard owned vessels) or purchasing Marine Employers’ Liability insurance (for crew aboard non-owned vessels).
USL&H covers work-related injuries or occupational diseases occurring on or near navigable waters, whereas traditional Workers’ Compensation covers a broader range of industries and occupations outside the marine industry.
USL&H premiums are calculated based on several factors, including payroll, job or occupation classification codes, claims experience and loss history of the employer, and other risk factors.
Your USL&H insurance policy can be customized to fit your company’s specific requirements. Coverage limits, deductibles, and additional endorsements such as Jones Act coverage and P&I coverage can be added.
If your business requires USL&H coverage, keep your policy current and up to date. Be sure to understand your reporting obligations in the event of any work-related injuries, illnesses, or incidents, and make sure your employees are aware of the reporting procedure. Maintain proper records, and keep up to date with any regulatory changes that could affect your obligations. It’s best to work with an insurance broker or insurance professional specializing in Ocean Marine insurance.
USL&H covers accidents and injuries like slip and falls, equipment-related accidents, and lifting and straining incidents. USL&H also covers occupational diseases due to the employee’s work, such as prolonged exposure to hazardous substances and materials, respiratory conditions, and repetitive strain injuries. Speak to your insurance broker regarding coverage specific to your policy.
Our Insurance Specialists can guide you to the best plan for your needs, and your budget.