US Department of Labor amplifies maritime protections for Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands following increased workplace safety concerns

News Release

US Department of Labor amplifies maritime protections for Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands following increased workplace safety concerns

NEW YORK - The U.S. Department of Labor is reinforcing safety and health protections for workers in maritime industries throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands through a local emphasis program.

Designed to address high injury and illness rates within maritime industries, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration initiative establishes inspections directed at maritime industries operating on or adjacent to U.S. navigable waterways during a five-year inspection plan.

OSHA maritime inspections apply to industries engaged in shipbuilding and repair, boat building, marine cargo handling, shipping navigation services, port and harbor operations, other support activities for water transportation, and marinas conducting recreational boat repair.

Free, confidential assistance is available to improve workplace safety and health while promoting compliance with OSHA standards. Employers across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands should take advantage of the free on-site consultation services available now through the Puerto Rico OSHA Consultation Program and the U.S. Virgin Islands Safety in Paradise OSHA On-site Consultation Program.

These services help small businesses identify workplace hazards, strengthen safety programs, and reduce injuries in high-risk maritime industries. View details of the maritime initiative, established March 2, 2026, on OSHA's enforcement site.

For additional occupational safety and health information, contact the OSHA Puerto Rico Area Office at (787) 277-1560 or visit https://www.osha.gov.

Learn more about solutions to common industry hazards.