A ship owner has a duty to provide a seaworthy vessel that is properly maintained and equipped and staffed by a trained crew. If a seaman or crew member is injured or becomes ill as a result of a vessel's unseaworthiness, the owner is liable to the seaman for his damages and loss. An injured seaman or maritime worker is entitled to paid medical treatment as well as room and board under the general maritime law principles of maintenance and cure.

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• Malfunctioning or poorly maintained machinery and equipment;

• An inadequate number of crew members;

• Lack of appropriate safety rails or guards on equipment and machinery;

• Lack of fire extinguishers or fire suppression equipment;

• Rusty hatches or doors with failed seals;

• Lack of proper hoists or elevators;

• Lack of proper safety equipment, including life rafts and life jackets;

• Untrained or incompetent crew or captain;

• Lack of safe living areas;

• Lack of sufficient food;

• Improperly stowed cargo; and

• Steep steps aboard ship.

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The owner is responsible for upholding the strict standards of a vessel to provide an environment that is reasonable for the seaman. It is the "absolute duty" of the vessel's owner that all aspects of the vessel and the ongoing operations meet the safety requirements; this obligation falls to no one else.