It's no secret that working at sea can be difficult. However, even a hard job should be done safely. A crucial component to safety while working aboard vessels is accountability; but, that accountability often requires mariners to escalate safety complaints to vessel owners, operators, regulators, and law enforcement. Unfortunately, not every vessel plying the seas has a culture of safety for its seamen. That's where the Seaman's Protection Act, 46 U.S.C. §2114 (SPA), may be available to help.
If you faced adverse employment action while working aboard a U.S.-flagged vessel after raising your concerns about shipboard safety, you may be entitled to benefits or other compensation, as well as an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Adverse actions may include:
· Firing or laying off;
· Blacklisting;
· Demoting;
· Denying overtime or promotion;
· Disciplining;
· Denying benefits;
· Failure to hire or rehire;
· Intimidation;
· Making threats, including threats against theseaman’s credentials;
· Reassignment affecting promotion or imposingmore arduous duty;
· Reducing pay or hours;
· Shunning or isolation; and
· Constructive discharge.
The Seaman's Protection Act is a powerful tool that can assist many mariners. You can learn more in the Lawrina Legal Blog featured article by maritime lawyer Adam Deitz of Mariner Law, PLLC: "What Is the Seaman’s Protection Act, 46 U.S.C. §2114 (SPA)?"
If you believe that you may have suffered an adverse action after engaging in a protected activity while working aboard a vessel, Mariner Law, PLLC is here to help. An experienced admiralty attorney can discuss your situation during a free consultation. Please dial (253) 600-2531 now. Mariner Law, PLLC serves mariner clients in Washington, Oregon, New York, Connecticut, Alaska, and nationwide.