Workplace transport

Most transport related accidents in docks are serious or fatal. Vehicle drivers from many employers use docks, not all of whom are familiar with the dock environment. Workplace transport safety will only be managed properly if everyone works together.

In many respects management of workplace transport in docks is no different from other large worksites. Guidance available includes:

• Workplace Transport Safety HSG 136, HSE Books, 1995, ISBN 0 7176 0935 9

• HSE workplace transport web pages
• Transport case studies - particularly useful in helping to think through what can appear to be intractable problems.

There are some specific areas of transport related risks in docks:

• Handling containers
• Loading/unloading of ro-ro vessels
• Trailer coupling and uncoupling
• Security of loads

Typically these accidents at docks are caused by a failure to:

• Adequately separate vehicles and pedestrians, for example when removing twistlocks at the quayside
• Exclude unauthorised people from high risk areas, such as container terminals
• Make sure safe working practices are followed
• Provide adequate visibility aids
• Allow for non-English speaking/reading visitors