When the oil industry largely went offshore, protection under maritime law was extended to offshore oilfield and gas workers, such as those working on jack-up drilling rigs and dredgers. Many oilfield workers who are hurt on the job have been able to recover compensation for their losses under general maritime law or the Jones Act.
It’s also important to note that some oil and gas workers spend a majority of their time on shore, working mainly on fixed oil platforms. These workers may not qualify for protecting under the Jones Act, since they likely won’t be considered a “seaman.” However, they may still qualify for benefits under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.