BPA urges “final push” with UK-wide marine safety compliance
The British Ports Association has called on UK ports, harbours, and marine facilities to adhere to and participate in the Port Marine Safety Code
Ahead of the deadline of the current UK Port Marine Safety Code compliance exercise, the British Ports Association (BPA), has called on the industry to participate and “report through to” the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
Richard Ballantyne, Chief Executive of the BPA, said: “The Port Marine Safety Code is an important instrument, and we want to see it used by the ports industry. It is therefore essential that UK ports participate in the current compliance exercise.
“The Code helps ports to limit and control their operational safety risks and minimising the possibility of incidents and accidents. As well as allowing operators to stay on top of their operational safety arrangements, the PMSC provides the government with a strong indication that the sector is in safe hands…”
The MCA’s Port and VTS Policy Manager, James Hannon, said he welcomed the BPA’s call to arms and suggested port operators still had time to participate: “It is vital all that all types of UK ports and marine facilities participate in the current PMSC compliance exercise. The Code and its accompanying guidance provide an essential toolbox to ensure the control of risk and the maintenance of safety in the ports and marine environment.
“The Code is recognised across the industry and has been developed in partnership by the UK government and industry over the last two decades. These resources set out how ports can assess risks, design safety management systems, and also install governance processes to ensure that a Designated Person is able to evaluate controls and report directly to port duty holders and boards.”
The current exercise runs until 31st March and requires port duty holders to submit a letter of compliance to the MCA. The exercises are held every three years and details are available here.
