New guidance for the safety of dock workers
HSE updates health and safety guidance for those working at docks, small harbours and quays
THE Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has worked with Port Skills and Safety and the Unite union to produce a new, simpler Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) and signposting guidance document for the docks industry.
The new guidance (Safety in Docks: Approved Code of Practice and guidance – L148) replaces the existing Approved Code of Practice (COP25) which has been withdrawn as part of the revocation of the Docks Regulations 1988.
The new ACoP is more concise and will help duty holders understand what they need to do to comply with the general duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and other relevant regulations. Topics covered include: Workplace Transport; Falls from Height; and Lifting Operations.
The ACoP, which has been developed to address both the larger end of the industry as well as those engaged in dock work at smaller locations (eg small harbours, quays etc), is supplemented by the Safety in Ports guidance sheet series which has been produced by Port Skills and Safety (PSS) with support from Unite and the HSE.
Endorsed by the HSE and freely available via both the HSE and PSS websites, these sheets, together with the new ACOP, are designed to deliver a comprehensive and coherent package of guidance for the industry.
Vincent Joyce, the HSE’s Head of Transportation, said: ‘The removal of the regulations is part of a package of revocations that streamline and clarify the regulatory framework. This will enable businesses to concentrate on the things that matter and improve the workplace protection for employees and others.
‘Although the Docks Regulations are being removed this will not lower safety standards as duty holders will still have to comply with other legislation that provides the same level of protection. Employers who needlessly put workers and the public at risk can still expect to face action from HSE.’
In addition to the new ACoP and guidance, the HSE has updated its Ports website which now includes links to the new ACoP and Safety in Ports guidance sheets.
