DUBLIN PORT LAUNCHES TEN SAFEPORT GOLDEN RULES

Gardaí, HSE and Customs and Revenue join Dublin Port Company and seven Terminal Operators with the aim of improving port safety 

Dublin Port has today published SafePort Golden Rules, a set of 10 rules designed to enable Port Management and the seven Terminal Operators to engage with employees and visitors in the safest possible manner on Dublin Port sites. The publication follows the introduction of a ‘new Dublin SafePort initiative’ in July 2022 and the introduction of 40km speed limits within the port in October 2022. 

Dublin Port is also pleased to announce that An Garda Síochána, the HSE and Customs and Revenue – who all play a pivotal role in Port safety – have also come on board as SafePort partners. The seven founding terminal operators are Dublin Ferryport Terminals, Doyle Shipping Group, Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries, Peel Ports Group (MTL), Seatruck Ferries and Stena Line. Together, they account for an estimated 75% of port workers on the estate. 

By their very nature, ports present complex challenges and potential hazards. Without strict adherence to rules and safety practices, incidents and accidents can occur, posing risks to workers, visitors and operations. Dublin SafePort has developed a comprehensive set of 10 safety rules that address critical areas of concern and promote a culture of safety-first behaviour. 

The SafePort 10 Golden Rules have been crafted by the Dublin SafePort working group, consisting of representatives from various segments of the port community. Their expertise, collaboration and sharing of lessons learnt have shaped a set of rules that cover both high-level safety principles and behaviours that, if left unchecked, can lead to serious incidents. These rules encompass a wide spectrum of port activities, ensuring that every facet of the port ecosystem is safeguarded. 

The 10 Golden Rules are as follows: 

• Turn up fit for work and unimpaired by drugs and alcohol. 
• Always use the designated walkways provided. 

• Be aware of lifting operations and moving machinery. Keep a safe distance. 
• Follow traffic management guidelines, observe speed limits, and wear seatbelts. 
• Prioritise water safety – wear a personal flotation device within 1.5m of the quay wall. 
• Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the task. 
• Limit smoking to designated areas and avoid littering. 

• Use mobile devices only as approved and avoid distractions. 
• Report incidents promptly to prevent accidents. 
• Familiarise yourself with the specific rules within terminals. 

Implementation of the SafePort 10 Golden Rules will be a joint effort by Port Management, the seven Terminal Operators and all port users. The initiative will be rolled out in two key areas: public roads and spaces within the port estate, and terminal and common user areas. Signage, social media campaigns, and educational materials will ensure the rules are accessible and understood by all. 

The SafePort 10 Golden Rules initiative is part of a broader commitment by Dublin Port to prioritise safety, stemming from the Dublin SafePort working group’s insights and global best practices. By growing a culture of safety consciousness and adherence, Dublin Port aims to create a safer and more secure environment for all stakeholders. 

Michael McKenna, Dublin Port Harbourmaster, said: “What we are trying to achieve with the launch of the Golden Rules is to keep reinforcing the SafePort message, ensure that people are aware of its relevance around the Port Estate in day-to-day operations, SafePort does not belong in a meeting room on PowerPoint presentations it must be in operation across the Port Estate and be in people’s minds as they go about their business.”  

Superintendent Jarlath Lennon, Store St Garda Station said “As a key stakeholder in Dublin Port, An Garda Síochána will take an active role in implementing Dublin Port’s 10 SafePort Golden Rules to make Dublin Port a safer place for all port workers and visitors.  An Garda Síochána’s promotion of the Golden Rules on a daily basis and close working relationship with all of our partner organisations in Dublin Port is an important aspect of our Mission Statement of Keeping People Safe.”