Conveyor Belt Injuries on Commercial Fishing Vessels in Alaska and the Bering Sea

Understanding the Risks of Conveyor Belts on Fishing Vessels

Commercial fishing vessels operating in Alaska and the Bering Sea are among the most hazardous workplaces in the world. These vessels often rely on conveyor belt systems to move, sort, and process fish efficiently. While conveyor belts are essential for productivity, they also pose serious risks to crew members, particularly in the form of pinch points and hand crush injuries. The nature of the work, combined with the harsh maritime environment, increases the likelihood of severe injuries, many of which could be prevented with proper safety protocols and equipment maintenance.

Common Conveyor Belt Injuries on Fishing Vessels

1. Pinch Point Injuries

Pinch points are areas where a worker’s body part, clothing, or gear can get caught between moving parts of the conveyor belt. These hazards are particularly dangerous because they can occur in multiple locations along the belt system, including:

• Between the belt and rollers
• At transition points between conveyor sections
• At pulleys or tensioners
• Where the belt meets metal structures

Crew members who work near these areas face a significant risk of fingers, hands, or arms being caught and crushed. Even minor pinch point injuries can lead to severe bruising, broken bones, or deep lacerations. In worst-case scenarios, fingers or entire hands may be amputated due to the force exerted by the belt mechanism.

2. Hand Crush Injuries

Hand crush injuries are among the most devastating injuries sustained on conveyor belt systems. They occur when a worker’s hand becomes trapped between the belt and a hard surface or moving part. This can happen due to:

• Reaching into moving conveyor belts to remove a jammed object
• Getting caught while attempting to adjust equipment on a running belt
• Slipping or losing balance near an unguarded belt section

Crush injuries can lead to severe tissue damage, nerve injuries, and permanent disability. Many workers who suffer crush injuries require extensive surgeries, rehabilitation, or prosthetics to regain partial function.

Why Are Conveyor Belt Injuries So Common on Fishing Vessels?

Several factors contribute to the high incidence of conveyor belt injuries on commercial fishing vessels in Alaska and the Bering Sea:

• Harsh Weather Conditions: The rough seas and unpredictable weather create an unstable working environment, increasing the risk of slips and falls near moving conveyor belts.
• Long Hours and Fatigue: Crew members often work extended shifts with little rest, leading to reduced focus and slower reaction times when operating or working near machinery.
• Lack of Proper Safety Guards: Some conveyor belt systems on older vessels lack essential safety features like emergency stop switches, protective guards, and adequate lighting.
• Improper Training: Many workers, especially new crew members, may not receive adequate training on the hazards associated with conveyor belts and the importance of lockout/tagout procedures.
• Lack of Proper PPE: Gloves, sleeves, and other protective gear designed to prevent crush and pinch injuries are not always available or worn.

Preventing Conveyor Belt Injuries on Fishing Vessels

1. Improved Safety Training

All crew members should receive comprehensive training on conveyor belt safety, including:

• Identifying pinch points and crush hazards
• Proper lockout/tagout procedures before performing maintenance
• Emergency stop procedures
• Safe techniques for clearing jams and handling obstructions

2. Installation of Safety Guards and Emergency Stops

Vessel operators should ensure that all conveyor belts are equipped with safety features such as:

• Emergency stop switches within easy reach
• Guardrails and enclosures around pinch points
• Warning signs and bright markers to highlight danger zones

3. Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Routine checks should be conducted to:

• Ensure belts, rollers, and pulleys are functioning properly
• Identify and repair frayed or loose components
• Replace worn-out emergency stop switches

4. Proper Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Workers should be provided with and required to wear:

• Cut-resistant gloves that do not pose an additional entanglement risk
• Protective sleeves to reduce the risk of deep cuts and abrasions
• Non-slip footwear to prevent accidental falls near conveyor belts

Legal Protections and Compensation for Injured Workers

Crew members who suffer conveyor belt injuries on commercial fishing vessels have legal rights under maritime law, including the Jones Act and general maritime law. These laws provide protection and compensation options for injured seamen, including:

• Maintenance and Cure: Covers daily living expenses and medical treatment until the worker reaches maximum medical improvement.
• Jones Act Claims: If an employer’s negligence contributed to the injury, the worker may be entitled to additional compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and disability.
• Unseaworthiness Claims: If a vessel’s conveyor belt system is found to be defective or improperly maintained, the vessel owner can be held liable for damages.
• Third-Party Claims: If the conveyor belt or safety equipment was defectively designed or manufactured, a third-party lawsuit against the manufacturer may be possible.

What to Do If You’re Injured on a Conveyor Belt at Sea

If you or a loved one has suffered a conveyor belt injury on a commercial fishing vessel in Alaska or the Bering Sea, take the following steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even minor injuries can worsen if left untreated.
2. Report the Injury: Notify your supervisor and ensure the incident is documented in the vessel’s log.
3. Preserve Evidence: Take photos of the injury site, damaged equipment, and any safety hazards.
4. Obtain Witness Statements: If other crew members witnessed the accident, their testimonies can support your claim.
5. Consult a Maritime Injury Attorney: A lawyer with experience in maritime law can help you understand your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us Today for a Free Evaluation of Your Claim.

Conveyor belt injuries on commercial fishing vessels in Alaska and the Bering Sea are a serious concern, particularly when it comes to pinch points and hand crush injuries. Due to the demanding nature of the industry, workers face constant exposure to hazardous machinery. However, through proper training, safety measures, and legal protections, many of these injuries can be prevented or adequately compensated. If you or someone you know has suffered a conveyor belt injury at sea, contact us today for a consultation with an experienced maritime injury attorney who can help ensure that justice is served and that safer working conditions are enforced in the fishing industry.