Secure the correct compensation arrangement
The Department of Labor explains that covered employers must secure payment of compensation through authorized insurance or approved self-insurance. A business's ordinary state workers' compensation arrangement should not be assumed to satisfy that federal requirement. Confirm the insured employer names, operations and applicable federal coverage. Working corporate officers and related entities require attention rather than assumptions based on state rules. Review subcontracting arrangements with counsel where another employer's failure to insure may affect responsibilities.
Keep notices and reporting procedures current
DOL identifies employee posting requirements using Form LS-241 for insured employers or LS-242 for authorized self-insurers. It also directs employers to notify the carrier promptly, authorize appropriate medical care and submit Form LS-202 within ten days of knowledge of an injury causing loss of one or more shifts, or upon request. Verify current instructions and case-specific obligations with the administrator. This overview is not a complete account of statutory duties or exceptions.
Assign responsibility before the next project
Name the person who receives injury notices, the backup contact and the administrator responsible for required filings. Keep employee notices and policy information accessible where work is conducted. Train supervisors to escalate incidents promptly and preserve facts without making coverage promises. Review the process when policies renew, employees change locations or a project adds a new maritime activity. A practical compliance review should involve the insurer and appropriate legal advisers; the brokerage website cannot certify legal compliance.
Questions worth asking
Is a state workers' compensation certificate proof of Longshore compliance?
Not by itself. Confirm the actual federal coverage and insurer authorization applicable to the employer and work.
Does reporting an injury to a broker complete every required filing?
No. Insurer notice and governmental reporting can be separate obligations. Confirm who performs each step and retain evidence.
Official references
Sources support the related legal or safety topic. Policy review points are general educational guidance.
U.S. Department of Labor: employer insurance and reporting responsibilities ↗U.S. Department of Labor: carrier and employer forms ↗33 U.S.C. § 930: injury reports ↗