What is US Longshore & Harbor Insurance?
US Longshore & Harbor Insurance, often called USL&H coverage, is a type of workers’ compensation insurance designed for employees who work on or near navigable waters of the United States. It is generally associated with the federal Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), which provides benefits to eligible maritime workers who are injured or become ill due to their job.
This coverage helps pay for medical care, disability benefits, and certain related expenses when covered workers are injured while performing maritime or harbor-related duties. It is separate from standard state workers’ compensation policies, which often do not fully cover longshore and harbor work.
Who needs US Longshore & Harbor Insurance?
US Longshore & Harbor Insurance is aimed at employers whose workers perform maritime or harbor-related tasks in or around navigable waters. Examples include:
- Longshore workers loading or unloading vessels
- Shipyard and ship repair workers
- Harbor construction and maintenance crews
- Stevedores and dock workers
- Some marine terminal and port employees
Whether coverage is required can depend on the type of work, where it is performed, and how often employees are exposed to maritime job duties. Employers should review their operations with a knowledgeable insurance professional to determine if USL&H coverage is needed in addition to, or instead of, standard workers’ compensation.
What does US Longshore & Harbor Insurance typically cover?
While specific policy terms vary, US Longshore & Harbor Insurance is generally designed to help with:
- Medical expenses for covered work-related injuries and occupational illnesses
- Lost wage benefits when an injured worker cannot perform their job due to a covered incident
- Rehabilitation services, such as physical therapy or vocational rehabilitation when included in the policy
- Survivor benefits for eligible dependents in the event of a work-related fatality
- Legal and claim-related costs associated with covered incidents, as outlined in the policy
The goal of USL&H coverage is to help protect both employers and eligible employees from the financial impact of serious maritime workplace injuries.
Common exclusions and limitations
Like all insurance policies, US Longshore & Harbor Insurance has exclusions and limitations. These may include:
- Injuries that occur outside the scope of employment
- Incidents caused by intentional acts or serious misconduct
- Certain offshore or crew-related work that may fall under other maritime laws (such as the Jones Act)
- Non-maritime job duties that are fully covered by state workers’ compensation instead
Policy language, eligibility, and benefits can vary by insurer and by situation. Employers should carefully review their policy documents and consult with a licensed insurance professional to understand what is and is not covered.
Factors that influence the cost of US Longshore & Harbor Insurance
The cost of USL&H coverage depends on several factors, including:
- Type of work performed and the level of risk involved in daily operations
- Payroll and number of employees who perform longshore or harbor-related duties
- Claims history and past loss experience
- Safety practices and training programs in place at the worksite
- Location and applicable laws, as requirements and risk profiles can differ by area
Because each business is different, insurers evaluate these and other details when determining eligibility and premium levels.
Proof of insurance and compliance
Employers that are subject to the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act or related statutes are generally expected to maintain appropriate coverage and keep proof of insurance on file. This proof may be requested by regulators, port authorities, contractors, or clients as part of contract and compliance requirements.
Requirements can vary by state, type of operation, and federal regulations. Employers should confirm which laws apply to their business and work with a licensed insurance provider to help meet applicable coverage and documentation standards.
How to get a US Longshore & Harbor Insurance quote
To explore US Longshore & Harbor Insurance options, you will typically need to provide details about your operations, payroll, job classifications, and safety measures. An insurance professional can then review your exposure to longshore and harbor risks and help you evaluate policy options that fit your needs.
To get started, you can request a quote here: Get a US Longshore & Harbor Insurance quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is US Longshore & Harbor Insurance different from standard workers’ compensation?
USL&H coverage is designed for maritime and harbor-related work on or near navigable waters, and it follows federal longshore rules. Standard workers’ compensation is based on state laws and often does not fully address longshore and harbor exposures, so some employers may need both types of coverage.
Do all dock or port workers automatically qualify for USL&H coverage?
Not necessarily. Eligibility depends on the worker’s job duties and where the work is performed. Some employees may be covered by USL&H, some by state workers’ compensation, and others by a combination. A licensed insurance professional can help review specific roles and locations.
Can one policy cover both USL&H and state workers’ compensation?
Some insurers offer policies that include both state workers’ compensation and USL&H endorsements, while others may provide separate policies. The structure depends on the insurer and the nature of your operations.
What information is needed to apply for US Longshore & Harbor Insurance?
Insurers typically ask for details about your business, including payroll by job class, a description of operations, locations where work is performed, prior claims history, and your safety and training programs.
Are subcontractors’ employees covered under my USL&H policy?
Coverage for subcontractors and their employees depends on how your policy is written and how contracts are structured. In some cases, subcontractors must carry their own USL&H coverage. Review your policy terms and contracts with a licensed insurance professional.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.