Stevedoring

Hazards and Solutions

1. Hazard 1 Access / egress slips and trips

   • Develop and implement appropriate policies and procedures (eg when vessel berths, inspect regime for gangways, handrails and upper deck before and during load / discharge of cargo to ensure safe access).
   • Identify protrusions and hazards and shut all hatches or deck openings - barricade as necessary.
   • Apply good housekeeping practises (eg effective waste removal and disposal methods).
2. Hazard 2 Falling / collapsing loads

   • Provide appropriate mechanical aids and equipment (eg fixed permanent collapse arrest / restraint system for coils of steel and other similar loads, mechanical aids (eg cranes) to handle heavy or awkward loads including lashing components, use lighter weight componentry such as alloy type if lashing can only be done by hand) and ensure they are used properly and maintained in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
   • Conduct a regular inspection regime to identify hazards, assess and control risks (eg the risks of shifting cargo during load / discharge operations).
   • Train employees in the selection and use of any mechanical equipment and aids and safe handling methods (eg work is done between shoulder and mid-thigh height and with the elbows close to the body, work upright where possible).
   • Develop and implement appropriate policies and procedures (eg positive grip on each item of cargo throughout load/discharge operation, resting load should be fully settled before entering the loading area to release the sling).
3. Hazard 3 Falls from heights

   • Provide appropriate height access equipment, use the highest level of falls prevention measures (eg temporary access platforms) as is reasonably practicable. Ensure ladders are in good condition and are used safely (eg three points of contact at all times).
   • Shut or rope off hatches and deck openings using high visibility solid barriers to prevent falls.
4. Hazard 4 Operating mobile plant (straddle carrier forklifts reach stackers)

   • Ensure operator cabin is appropriately equipped (eg all-round visibility, safe ingress / egress routes, noise insulation, adequate work space, air conditioning / heating, adjustable ergonomically designed controls, rotating seat, non-reflective easy-to-clean interior surfaces).
   • Develop and implement appropriate policies and procedures (eg ensure vessel and cargo, especially general cargo such as steel, is manoeuvred in a way that minimises snagging of loads and use of manual force).
   • Ensure employees are not exposed to repetitive work for long periods (eg by using job rotation, work variation).
5. Hazard 5 Work-related stress harrassment or bullying

   • Develop and implement appropriate policies and procedures for workplace bullying and harassment.
   • Encourage a positive workplace culture, including reporting of bullying and harassment.
   • Ensure all employees understand what bullying and harassment is, and the procedures for reporting incidents (eg policies and procedures should be promoted during employee induction and workplace bullying prevention or training).
   • Provide access and encourage employees to use employee counselling / support services, where possible.
   • Develop strategies for managing the impact of fatigue (eg develop a fatigue management system and train managers/team leaders how to effectively implement it).
   • Train employees how to recognise fatigue signs and symptoms.
   • Encourage employees to report any workplace stress factors (eg work demand, low control, poor support, lack of role clarity, organisational culture) and control appropriately.