Deck Barge Safety

OSHA 3358-01N, Deck Barge Safety, presents guide on preventing injuries and illnesses from workplace hazards on deck barges. Approximately 4,000 deck barges operate in the Unites States, using different types of winches and other equipment in a variety of operations. Employees on these vessels can face serious hazards. 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. Many such injuries and deaths could be prevented with proper controls, procedures, training, and awareness of hazards and possible solutions.