What is USL&H?
Federal Workers' Compensation coverage designed specifically for qualifying maritime employees.
The U.S. Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (USL&H) provides federally mandated Workers' Compensation benefits for maritime employees injured while working on or adjacent to U.S. navigable waters. It bridges state Workers' Compensation and Jones Act coverage by providing medical care, disability benefits, rehabilitation, and survivor benefits for eligible employees. If your employees meet the Act's requirements, this coverage is required by law.
Learn more about USL&H
Learn when USL&H coverage applies, which businesses typically need it, and how it helps protect maritime employers and employees.
What does USL&H cover?
Benefits that help eligible employees recover after a work-related injury or occupational illness.
- Medical treatment and hospitalization.
- Temporary and permanent disability benefits.
- Vocational rehabilitation.
- Death and survivor benefits.
- Compensation for occupational diseases covered under the Act.
Who needs USL&H?
Coverage for maritime employers with employees working on or adjacent to U.S. navigable waters.
Whether USL&H applies depends on where employees work and the duties they perform. Businesses that commonly need this coverage include:
- Ship repairers
- Ship builders
- Longshore and stevedores
- Terminal operators
- Marine contractors
- Harbor construction workers
- Marine equipment rental companies
- Dock and pier maintenance contractors