U.S. Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act Insurance Houston

Specialized coverage for Houston's maritime workforce, protecting your business along the Gulf Coast's bustling ports and waterways.
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Custom-tailored policies for Houston specific risks

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Why Us?

Why Choose TWFG Commercial in Houston?

Your Houston maritime business deserves protection from a partner who understands local port operations and federal regulations.

• Deep understanding of Houston's port industry and maritime risks
• Expert knowledge of federal USL&H Act requirements and Texas state regulations
• Customized coverage for Gulf Coast-specific maritime operations

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Local Expertise
With over a decade of experience serving Houston's maritime sector, our local experts understand the unique challenges faced by businesses operating in the Port of Houston and along the Gulf Coast. We provide tailored USL&H insurance solutions that comply with federal regulations while addressing the specific needs of Houston's diverse maritime workforce.
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Industry Expertise
Our insurance professionals specialize in USL&H coverage, maintaining up-to-date certifications and continuously tracking changes in maritime law and industry risks. This ensures your policy provides comprehensive protection against the complex claims often associated with longshore and harbor work in Houston's dynamic port environment.
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Beyond Basic Coverage

We go beyond basic USL&H coverage with premium risk management services tailored to Houston's maritime industry. Our enhanced options include specialized safety training programs and proactive claims management, helping prevent incidents while ensuring robust protection for your business and employees.

Ideal For

Who needs U.S. Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act Insurance in Houston?

• Stevedoring Companies: Businesses loading and unloading vessels at the Port of Houston require comprehensive USL&H coverage for their workforce.
• Ship Repair and Maintenance Firms: Companies servicing vessels in Houston's shipyards need protection against workplace injuries and illnesses.
• Offshore Oil and Gas Support Services: Businesses providing support to Houston's offshore energy sector must have USL&H coverage for workers on navigable waters.
• Harbor Construction Companies: Firms engaged in constructing or repairing Houston's port facilities require USL&H insurance for workers exposed to maritime risks.

Houston's position as a major Gulf Coast port city creates unique insurance needs for maritime employers. The U.S. Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (USL&H) mandates specific coverage for employees working on or near navigable waters. For instance, stevedoring companies at the Port of Houston face high-risk environments with heavy machinery and cargo operations. Similarly, ship repair firms in the Houston Ship Channel area must manage complex workplace safety issues while meeting strict federal regulations. Securing comprehensive USL&H insurance isn't just a legal requirement—it's essential for protecting your Houston maritime business and workforce. Contact our Houston office today for expert guidance on USL&H coverage tailored to your specific operations.
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Get Personalised Advice from Houston Insurance Experts

Let our local experts analyze your current coverage and identify potential gaps or savings for your business.

U.S. Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act Insurance Coverage Details

Comprehensive protection for Houston's maritime workforce, addressing federal requirements and local industry risks.

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Comprehensive USL&H Coverage Explained

Our Houston USL&H insurance provides robust protection for maritime employers and employees. Key coverage elements include:
• Medical Benefits: Full coverage for work-related injuries and illnesses
• Disability Compensation: Payments for temporary or permanent disabilities
Rehabilitation Services: Support for injured workers returning to employment
• Death Benefits: Financial protection for dependents in case of work-related fatalities

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Industry-Specific Risks in Houston's Maritime Sector

Houston's maritime sector faces unique risks requiring specialized coverage:
• Heavy Machinery Accidents: Protection against injuries from cranes, forklifts, and other port equipment
• Slip and Fall Incidents: Coverage for accidents on wet or unstable surfaces common in port environments
• Exposure to Hazardous Materials: Protection against illnesses from chemicals or cargo exposure
• Repetitive Stress Injuries: Coverage for conditions resulting from repeated physical tasks
Our risk management team provides industry-specific safety training and compliance guidance.

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Federal USL&H Requirements for Houston Employers

USL&H coverage is federally mandated for maritime employers in Houston:
• Applies to employees working on, over, or adjacent to navigable waters
• Covers a broad range of maritime occupations, including longshoremen, harbor workers, and ship repairers
• Requires specific benefit levels and claim procedures distinct from state workers' compensation
• Mandates coverage for both land-based and on-water maritime activities
Our Houston insurance experts ensure your coverage fully complies with all federal USL&H requirements.

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Enhanced Coverage Options for Houston Maritime Businesses

Enhance your USL&H protection with these critical coverage options:
• Jones Act Coverage: Additional protection for seamen working on vessels
• Maritime Employer's Liability: Coverage for claims not fall under USL&H or Jones Act
• Stop Gap Liability: Protection against employee lawsuits in monopolistic state fund jurisdictions
• Terrorism Risk Insurance: Coverage for terrorist acts affecting maritime operations

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Considerations for Local Businesses in Houston

Houston's maritime industry is subject to both federal USL&H regulations and Texas state laws. The Port of Houston, ranking first in U.S. foreign waterborne tonnage, requires strict adherence to safety standards. In 2022, the port handled over 285 million tons of cargo, with a 25% increase in container volume since 2020. Maritime-related injuries in the Houston area resulted in an average claim of $85,000, with a 15% increase in claim frequency over the past three years. The local maritime sector employs over 56,000 workers, contributing $339 billion to the Texas economy. Climate-related risks, including more frequent tropical storms, have led to a 20% increase in weather-related maritime incidents since 2018. The expanding liquefied natural gas (LNG) export operations at the port have introduced new safety considerations, with specialized training requirements increasing by 30% for workers in LNG-related roles.
Expertise

How much does U.S. Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act Insurance cost in Houston?

USL&H insurance costs in Houston typically range from $20 to $50 per $100 of payroll, but individual premiums vary based on several factors:

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1
Job Classifications
Different maritime roles carry varying risk levels, affecting premiums. For example, stevedores often have higher rates than administrative staff.
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Safety Record
Companies with strong safety programs and fewer claims history may qualify for lower rates in Houston's competitive market.
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Payroll Size
Larger payrolls generally mean higher premiums, but can also lead to volume discounts for Houston's bigger maritime operations.
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Type of Maritime Operations
The nature of work (e.g., cargo handling vs. ship repair) impacts risk levels and corresponding insurance costs in Houston's diverse port environment.
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Location-Specific Risks

Houston's susceptibility to tropical storms and specific port infrastructure can influence USL&H insurance rates compared to other U.S. maritime hubs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to questions you may have. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us here.

What is the U.S. Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (USL&H) insurance in Houston?
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USL&H insurance in Houston is a federally mandated workers' compensation program for maritime employees. It covers workers engaged in maritime activities on or near navigable waters, including the Port of Houston, one of the busiest ports in the U.S. This insurance provides medical benefits, disability compensation, and rehabilitation services for work-related injuries or illnesses. It's crucial for Houston's maritime industry due to the city's extensive coastal and port operations.

Who is required to have USL&H insurance coverage in Houston?
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In Houston, employers with workers performing tasks on, near, or adjacent to navigable waters must have USL&H insurance. This includes longshoremen, harbor workers, ship repairers, and shipbuilders. Even businesses not primarily engaged in maritime work may need coverage if their employees occasionally work on docks or vessels. Given Houston's significant maritime industry, with over 200 private terminals and 8 public terminals, many local businesses fall under this requirement.

How does USL&H insurance differ from standard workers' compensation in Houston?
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USL&H insurance in Houston offers more comprehensive benefits than standard Texas workers' compensation. It provides higher compensation rates, unlimited medical benefits, and broader coverage for occupational diseases. Unlike Texas state workers' comp, which is optional for private employers, USL&H is mandatory for eligible maritime employers. The federal nature of USL&H also means consistent coverage across states, crucial for Houston's interstate and international maritime operations.

What specific risks does USL&H insurance cover in Houston's maritime industry?
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In Houston, USL&H insurance covers a wide range of maritime-specific risks. These include injuries from heavy machinery at the port, accidents on oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico, exposure to hazardous materials during cargo handling, and slip-and-fall incidents on wet docks. It also covers unique Houston risks like heat-related illnesses due to the city's hot climate and injuries from hurricanes or severe weather events that frequently affect the Gulf Coast region.

How are USL&H insurance premiums calculated for Houston businesses?
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USL&H insurance premiums in Houston are calculated based on several factors: the company's payroll, the nature of work performed, the company's safety record, and the specific risks associated with Houston's maritime environment. For instance, businesses operating in Houston's ship channel might face higher premiums due to increased risk exposure. The Experience Modification Rate (EMR), which reflects a company's past claim history, also significantly impacts premium calculations in Houston's competitive maritime insurance market.

What steps should Houston employers take to ensure USL&H compliance?
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Houston employers should first determine if their operations fall under USL&H jurisdiction, considering the city's extensive waterfront activities. They must then obtain coverage from an authorized insurance provider familiar with Houston's maritime landscape. Employers should implement rigorous safety programs tailored to local maritime risks, maintain accurate payroll records, and promptly report any injuries. Regular audits and consultations with USL&H experts are advisable, given the complex regulations and Houston's dynamic maritime industry environment.

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For over a decade, TWFG Khan Insurance Services has been the trusted partner for businesses across Texas and neighboring states. We specialize in complex insurance solutions for maritime, oil & gas, and construction industries where standard coverage isn't enough.

Don't let gaps in coverage put your business at risk. Our team of specialists will work with you to create a comprehensive protection plan that keeps your business secure and compliant.



Join the hundreds of businesses who trust us with their most critical insurance needs.

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