Diego Garcia is a remote tropical island in the Indian Ocean, located just south of the Equator. Although the island is owned by the British Indian Ocean Territory, the United States has maintained a military base there since 1974. Today, the U.S. Navy Support Facility on Diego Garcia houses 16 different military commands, making it one of the most strategically important bases in the world.
From this location, the U.S. military supports naval ships, long-range bombers, aerial tankers, and other assets deployed across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The island also serves as an emergency landing site for the Space Shuttle, hosts one of the Global Positioning System’s three ground antennas, and contains facilities for the U.S. Space Surveillance Network.
Civilian Contractors on the Island
Much of the daily work on Diego Garcia is carried out not only by military personnel but also by civilian contractors. The Navy has long relied on private companies to perform a wide range of functions, including longshore services, waste removal, and Base Operations Services (BOS). These contracts cover essential areas such as public safety, air and port operations, supply management, utilities, housing, environmental services, and morale and recreation support.
Construction and infrastructure projects are also a constant presence on the island. While Navy Seabees historically handled much of this work, today private construction firms are awarded contracts for repairs, alterations, new builds, and demolition projects. Civilian contractors are often at the heart of these efforts, ensuring that the base remains fully operational.
Risks and Injuries for Contractors
Despite its tropical beauty, Diego Garcia is a demanding and sometimes hazardous work environment. Civilian contractors face risks in construction, port operations, utilities, waste management, and other vital roles. From accidents on construction sites to injuries sustained while handling heavy equipment or performing dangerous maintenance tasks, the potential for harm is always present.
Protection Under the Defense Base Act
Civilian contractors working on Diego Garcia are not covered by local or state workers’ compensation programs. Instead, they fall under the Defense Base Act (DBA), a federal law that provides medical care, wage replacement, and death benefits to those injured or killed while working overseas under U.S. contracts. This law was designed to ensure that those who serve U.S. interests abroad are not left without protection in the event of an accident or illness.
However, obtaining DBA benefits is not always straightforward. Insurance carriers frequently challenge claims, and workers must comply with strict rules and deadlines to secure the compensation they deserve. For this reason, it is important to seek experienced legal counsel as soon as possible after an injury.
What To Do If You Were Injured in Diego Garcia
If you were injured while working on Diego Garcia as a civilian contractor, you may be entitled to compensation under the Defense Base Act. Navigating the claims process without experienced representation can be overwhelming and may put your benefits at risk.
At Barnett, Lerner, Karsen, Frankel & Castro, P.A., our attorneys have the knowledge and dedication to guide you through the DBA process. We are committed to protecting your rights, advocating for your best interests, and helping you secure the benefits you need for yourself and your family.