A barge is a flat-bottomed boat used to carrying freight, typically on canals and rivers, either under its own power or towed by another. Barges are designed to maximize available space for cargo and provide stability during transportation.
Among the most common types of barges in use in the United States and abroad include:
•Dry bulk cargo barges – Designed to transport large quantities of dry cargo, such as steel, scrap metal, coal, gravel, sand and grain. These vessels are common on the Mississippi River and on the United States’ east and west coasts. Dry bulk cargo barges are typically operated and maintained with care for the environment in mind.
•Liquid cargo barges – Designed to transport petrochemicals, such as styrene, benzene and methanol; liquid fertilizer, including anhydrous ammonia; refined products, including gasoline, diesel fuel, and jet fuel; black oil products, such as asphalt, types of fuel oil; and pressurized products, such as liquefied petroleum gases and butadiene. Some of these liquids are potentially dangerous materials, such as methanol and benzene.
•Car-float barges – Designed to transport railway cars. These barges were crucial in the early 20th century, and but there are few left in operation today.
•Power barge – Also known as a powership, a power barge has one or more mounted power plants. These vessels’ primary purpose is as an energy source, as opposed to transporting cargo. They were initially developed during World War II by General Electric for the War Production Board as a transportable power generation resource, but their use has declined in recent years. There are approximately four self-propelled powerships currently deployed around the world, while there are over 75 power barges worldwide
•Barracks barge – Designed to be used as living quarters. They have been used to house sailors and service members. A barracks ship may also be used as a “Receiving Unit” for sailors who need temporary residence prior to being assigned to their ship.
•Crane barge (floating crane) – Specialized in lifting heavy loads. The largest of these ships are used for off-shore construction. The use of a crane barge demands consideration of stabilization, wind and other safety concerns.
People who work on these vessels can face serious hazards and challenges.
Between 1997 and 2006, 305 employees were killed on barge/tow combinations, and 379 explosions or fires occurred on barges or towboats, killing 14 employees. Despite the fact that this industry can be dangerous, employees shouldn’t be faced with working in unreasonably dangerous conditions. Barge injuries can cut careers and lives very short.
Workers employed on barges are protected under Federal Maritime Laws, and we can help ensure injured marine workers and their loved ones find full monetary compensation when terrible accidents happen. Call the Dysart Law Firm, p.c. for a free consultation to discuss your case today.
Source: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/3358deck-barge-safety.pdf