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Table of contents

Gard Guidance Masters

2.8.7.5 STEVEDORES

Cargo operations are dangerous by their nature. Hazards exist and stevedores are just as prone to accidents as anyone else – often with fatal consequences. In some jurisdictions, particularly the United States, stevedore claims for personal injury are frequently substantial and may give grounds for criminal prosecution of the Master and the Company. To reduce the severity of or prevent such claims, it is very important to act quickly at the time of the alleged incident and to collect all available evidence, including witness details and photographs – see Part 3.

To prevent such accidents occurring, the principles for a safe working environment and safe working practices as set out in sections 2.8.3 Safe working environment and 2.8.5 Safe working practices should be followed.