DOL Says Maersk Line Illegally Fired Seaman for Whistleblowing

Maersk Line Limited, a provider of marine cargo services, must pay more than $700,000 in back wages and damages after allegedly retaliating against a seaman who reported safety concerns to the US Coast Guard, according to the Labor Department Thursday.

After a seaman reported multiple safety concerns about the Maersk Line vessel, Safmarine Mafadi, he was allegedly suspended and later terminated, said Occupational Safety and Health inspectors. Included in the safety concerns were leaks in the starboard tunnel, crew members possessing alcohol, and leaving a trainee unsupervised.

According to OSHA, Maersk Line violated the Seaman’s Protection Act, which protects ...