HSE Reports Decrease in Offshore Injuries

This week, the UK’s Health & Safety Executive (HSE) said that the total number of major injuries reported for offshore workers in 2008/2009 has dropped by 32%.  Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (as amended) (HSWA) HSE was created to support the United Kingdom Government’s efforts to improve health and safety at work.  Its main aim is to secure the health, safety and welfare of people at work and protect others from risks to health and safety from work activity.  In its annual Offshore Injury & Incident Statistics report, the HSE said that – for the second year running – there were no fatalities arising from offshore work.  Major injuries dropped from 44 in 2007/2008 to 30 in 2008/2009.  The report covers incidents reported between the period running 1 April 2008 to 31 March 2009.

However, it was noted that the “tragic loss on 1 April of 17 workers in two separate air transport and maritime incidents – areas not regulated by HSE – is a stark reminder of the hazards of working offshore and the need to ensure they are carefully managed.”

As experienced Offshore Injury Attorneys, we believe this report is self-serving and does not accurately represent the dangerous conditions for seamen.  As noted above, the government agency only reports on accidents that fall under their purview.  Our team of experience maritime attorneys are available to discuss any safety violations, personal injury questions and/or assist you in any way with your Offshore Injury claims. Contact us to learn more.