Admiralty law (or maritime law) is one of the oldest types of law. Some also find it to be among the most complicated and complex. Maritime law refers to laws concerning the sailing and navigation as well as commerce that take place at sea or maritime related on land.

Maritime industries encompass many subdivisions and involve a fairly large amount of labor. This includes operating large vessels as well as maintenance and repair. These jobs can be high in compensation.

Maritime jobs also tend to involve a higher number of hours per work week, often exceeding the typical 40 hour work week.

Unfortunately there can also be a higher degree of risk involved with these types of jobs. This includes exposure to chemicals or machinery that posses a certain amount of risk.

Fatigue from long hours and insufficient or inadequate medical attention can also add to increased risk for maritime workers. A higher degree or risk can ultimately lead to more potential for work related injuries.

Lack of proper medical attention or fatigue due to long hours can lead to personal injury for maritime workers. This may include health related issues or accidents which may occur because of work conditions.

In 1920 the Merchant Marine Act or Jones Act was passed (named after Senator Wesley Jones). The laws enacted as a result of the Jones Act were in direct response to health concerns for maritime workers. The Jones Act provided a system of benefits to workers.

Another important aspect of the Jones Act is that any maritime worker who is injured or becomes ill at sea is entitled to medical care provided by their employer. The Jones Act applies to anyone who spends at least 30% of their time in active service aboard a maritime vessel.

As a result of the Jones Act maritime employers can also sue for negligence that is a result of the vessel's owner(s) or other employees who were under the responsibility of that employer. This can also include injury as a result of improper conditions on the vessel or failure to properly maintain the vessel which may have lead to the injury. This can also include death benefits, in the event of work related death.

If you are a part of any of the maritime related industries you should be aware of your rights and protections under the law.