The American Navy is the second largest in the world, only after China. Being a part of the naval force is a matter of pride, but it entails relentless hard work and dedication. Navy personnel also face constant risks as they stand strong against ongoing regional conflicts. Additionally, they have to be available for crisis response at all times.
According to the latest statistics, the US Navy has 336,978 personnel on active duty and an additional 101,583 in the Ready Reserve. It owns 299 combat vessels and 4,012 operational aircraft. However, when it comes to the armed forces, manpower matters more than vessels and weapons. Navy personnel bear several occupational risks in the line of duty.
In this article, we will highlight these risks and explain how Navy personnel often pay a hefty price for bravery.
Dynamic Maritime Environment
The maritime environment is dynamic with unique challenges that require a high level of resilience. Inclement weather is one reason to worry about, but it is only the tip of the iceberg. Over the decades, several ship collisions and groundings have been a part of American naval history. Bad weather, human error, and close proximity to other ships are the leading causes of such mishaps.
Whatever the reason for these accidents, they underscore a serious occupational hazard for Navy personnel. The nature of their duties exposes them to these unavoidable situations. The worst part is that help is often too far when a ship collides or gets stranded in the middle of nowhere amid harsh weather conditions.
Onboard Injuries and Combat Operations
According to a 50-year analysis of mishaps at sea, forces on the US naval ships sustained a total of 3,127 casualties. These included 2,079 injuries and 1,048 fatalities. The injury mechanisms linked with the highest mortality included blunt head trauma, electrocution, explosion, fall from height, and man overboard.
Injuries and deaths may also happen during combat operations and training. Serving in conflict zones exposes people onboard to enemy actions and ballistic projectiles. Additionally, they face the psychological toll of warfare, affecting their mental well-being in the long run. Every soldier is at risk, regardless of time served onboard.
Hazardous Exposure
Exposure to hazardous chemicals and materials on the ship is another occupational risk for Navy personnel. Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is perhaps the biggest culprit because it contains toxic per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These substances are related to multiple health issues such as cancer, developmental, liver, and immune system problems.
The recent AFFF Lawsuit by Navy personnel suffering from exposure-related diseases set an example for others. AFFF is used for firefighting aboard Navy vessels and U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) ships to extinguish flammable liquid fires. While AFFF saves lives and property, it poses a grave health hazard to those exposed to the harmful PFAS. The same product is also an occupational hazard for firefighters.
According to TruLaw, victims suffering from the aftermath of AFFF exposure can seek compensation from manufacturers. AFFF lawsuit settlements range from $10,000 to more than $300,000 depending on the level of exposure, medical problems, and the strength of the claim.
Dangerous Machinery and Equipment
Besides exposure to hazardous substances, Navy personnel also handle complex machinery and equipment. They need to operate and maintain these machines to keep the ships up and running. However, the intricate nature of naval systems leads to a risk of accidents and mishaps. Slip and fall accidents are also common in cluttered and slippery areas of naval vessels.
Constant vigilance and expertise may reduce the risk, but mishaps may still happen due to human error, negligence, or mechanical failure. The constant exposure to these risks demands a heavy price for bravery and patriotism.
Mental Health Challenges
Soldiers often struggle with mental health challenges due to the stress of combat, separation from their loved ones, and prolonged periods of isolation. Studies show that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression are the most common challenges encountered by service members and veterans in the US.
Navy personnel are at an even higher risk because they may be out of touch with their families for extended periods. They also often feel anxious about the responsibility for the safety of the crew members. Unfortunately, the risk is underrated because it does not show up as visible wounds and scars. However, it can have long-term mental health implications.
In conclusion, bravery comes at a significant price for Navy personnel because their work encompasses a range of occupational risk factors. Acknowledging and addressing these factors is the only way to navigate the demanding landscape. Moreover, the Navy should do its bit by lending a hand to its members and building a resilient force for the country.
