Last Updated on April 29, 2026 by tanya

How to Claim for Offshore Gangway Injuries

 

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced under the oversight of Michael Jefferies, First Personal Injury Director, who brings over 30 years of legal experience.

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

 

Employer Negligence and Compensation Tips

 

Offshore work can be rewarding, but it’s also inherently risky so it’s important to know how to claim for offshore gangway injuries. If you’ve been injured on an offshore gangway due to employer negligence , such as poor maintenance, unsafe weather operations, or lack of safety equipment, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Steps include getting medical attention, reporting the incident, collecting evidence and consulting a personal injury lawyer as early as possible.

One of the most overlooked hazards in offshore operations is the gangway. This is the bridge connecting an offshore platform, vessel or rig to shore or another structure. In fact, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued an urgent offshore gangway safety notice. It calls on operators in the offshore industry to review gangway safety and conduct technical risk assessments.

A slip, trip, or fall on a gangway can cause serious injury, from broken bones to spinal damage, and in some cases, traumatic brain injuries.

 

Explainer: What Counts as Employer Negligence in Offshore Gangway Incidents

Employer negligence occurs when your employer fails to meet the legal duty of care owed to you as an employee, resulting in an unsafe work environment.

In offshore gangway scenarios, negligence may involve:

 

• Poor Maintenance – Gangways not regularly inspected, cleaned, or repaired.
• Lack of Safety Equipment – No guardrails, non-slip surfaces, or fall-prevention systems.
• Inadequate Lighting – Poor visibility increasing trip hazards, especially during night transfers.
• Unsafe Sea Conditions – Failing to postpone transfers during severe weather or high swells.
• Improper Training – Crew not trained on safe gangway use or emergency procedures.
• Defective Design or Installation – Gangway angles, width, or load capacity not compliant with safety standards.
• Failure to Supervise – Lack of oversight during transfers, especially when carrying loads.

 

If your injury was caused by any of these, or even a combination of these factors, you likely have a valid negligence claim.

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Compensation for Offshore Gangway Injuries

1. Get Immediate Medical Attention

Your health must always come first. Seek on-site medical care and ensure your injuries are documented by a qualified professional. Medical records are essential evidence.

 

2. Report the Incident in Writing

Notify your supervisor and log the incident in the company accident book or official reporting system. Include:

 

• Date, time, and location.
• Description of events.
• Witness names.

 

3. Gather Your Evidence

The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim. This may include:

 

• Photos or videos of the gangway and conditions.
• Witness statements.
• Maintenance logs showing neglect.
• Weather reports at the time.

 

4. File Your Claim Promptly

The time limit to file a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the injury.

 

5. Negotiate or Proceed to Court

Your lawyer may secure a settlement through negotiation and most cases are settled this way. However, if the employer disputes liability, your case may proceed to court.

 

What Can You Claim For After a Gangway Accident?

An offshore gangway injury claim may cover:

• Medical expenses (past and future).
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering.
• Rehabilitation and care costs.
• Travel expenses for treatment.

 

Top Tips To Win Your Offshore Gangway Injury Claim

1. Act Quickly – Evidence fades, and deadlines pass fast.
2. Keep Detailed Records – Every appointment, prescription, and conversation counts.
3. Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Advice – Employers may offer low settlements early.
4. Involve Witnesses Early – People’s memories fade, and offshore crews rotate.
5. Seek a No-Win, No-Fee Arrangement – This allows you to reduces financial risk while pursuing your claim.

 

Key Takeaways – Offshore Gangway Injury Claims

• Employer negligence in offshore gangway cases includes poor maintenance, lack of training, inadequate safety equipment, and unsafe operational decisions.
• Act fast: seek medical care, report the incident, gather evidence, and get legal advice.
• Compensation may cover medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and rehabilitation.
• Use an experienced maritime injury lawyer to navigate jurisdiction and safety law complexities.
• Filing deadlines are short – so don’t delay.

 

Common FAQs on Gangway Injuries

Q. What Should I do immediately after an offshore gangway injury?

Seek medical attention right away, even if your injury seems minor. Report the incident in writing to your supervisor, gather witness details, and take photos of the gangway and surrounding conditions. Quick action protects both your health and your legal claim.

Q. How can I prove my employer was negligent after a gangway accident?

Evidence is key. Collect maintenance logs, safety inspection reports, weather records, and witness statements. Photographs or video of the unsafe condition — such as missing guardrails or slippery surfaces — can strongly support your claim.

Q. What types of compensation can I claim after a gangway injury offshore?

You may be entitled to claim for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and future care expenses related to your injury.

Q. Is there a time limit to file an offshore gangway injury claim?

Yes. Personal injury claims need to be filed within three years from the date of the accident. Missing the deadline can prevent you from receiving compensation.

 

Need Help Now?

An offshore gangway accident can change your life in seconds, but if your employer’s negligence caused it, you have the right to fight for offshore accident compensation. They have a duty to keep you safe, but you need to act quickly to get the compensation you deserve.

📞 Call us now on 0333 358 2345 📧 Or contact us online and we’ll call you back at a time that suits you for a free, no-obligation consultation.