Introduction
Ports are often challenging places to work. Deadlines have to be met and weather, tides and clashing activities need to be safely contended with. Please consider the following points, then use the navigation keys at the bottom of the screen to continue.
- Threats such as terrorism, vandalism and theft pose a risk to the port facility.
- Local and international legislation demands that minimum levels of safety and security are maintained.
- To help us manage safety and security we have developed this General Safety and Security Awareness Training (GSSAT) induction package.
- In order to gain unaccompanied access to our restricted areas you must read and understand this induction.
- You must also provide some personal information as part of your application for a security pass.
- There is a short test at the end to check you have completed and understood the GSSAT induction.
Guernsey Ports commitment
Guernsey Ports is committed to supporting the following:
- Providing a safe environment for all of its staff and visitors.
- Taking all reasonable steps to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all persons conducting activities in the port facility.
- Ensuring compliance with the requirements and spirit of health, safety, security and environmental legislation, approved codes of practice and any other guidance or legislation.
- Encouraging consultation and co-operation between us and our users by all practical means.
- Requiring others within the premises that we control to manage health, safety, security and environmental matters properly.
Security and access control
Guernsey Harbours is required to operate in accordance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) which is enforced locally through the Security of Ship and Port Facilities (Guernsey) Ordinance, 2004.
The ISPS Code requires a port facility to implement a comprehensive list of security measures. Such measures include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Ensuring the performance of all port facility security duties.
- Controlling access to the port facility.
- Monitoring the port facility, including anchoring and berthing area(s).
- Monitoring the Restricted Area to ensure that only authorised persons have access.
- Supervising the handling of ship's stores.
- Ensuring that security communication is readily available.
Potential risks to ports and ships
Be aware that risks come in a variety of forms, which are not always obvious. Such risk include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Terrorism.
- Stowaways.
- Human trafficking.
- Political action.
- Theft & robbery.
- Vandalism & criminal damage.
- Piracy.
- Cyber attack.
- Smuggling.
- Bomb threats.
- Sabotage.
- Disruptive passengers.
Security levels
Security Levels are set by the Department for Transport (DfT) and will be displayed at prominent positions around the port area.
Use the navigation to unveil the different security levels:
Security level 1: NORMAL, the level at which the ship or port facility normally operates, it means the level for which minimum appropriate protective security measures shall be maintained at all times.
Security level 2: HEIGHTENED, the level applying for as long as there is a heightened risk of a security incident, it means the level for which appropriate additional protective security measures shall be maintained for a period of time as a result of heightened risk of a security incident.
Security level 3: EXCEPTIONAL, the level applying for as long as there is an exceptional risk of a security incident. It means the level for which appropriate additional protective security measures shall be maintained for a period of time as a result of exceptional risk of a security incident. It means the level for which further specific protective security measures shall be maintained for a limited period of time when a security incident is probable or imminent, although it may not be possible to identify the specific target.
Why restrict and control access?
- Access is controlled to prevent unauthorised persons entering facilities or vessels and leaving prohibited items, sabotaging equipment, interfering with cargo, etc.
- Access control procedures are intended to ensure that only people with both a legitimate need and the authority (e.g. a valid pass) are allowed access to the Restricted Areas.
Harbour access passes
Harbour vehicle permit
Owners of vehicles which require regular access to the RA can apply for a separate vehicle pass from the Harbour Office.
The following is an example of a vehicle permit for recognition.
St Peter Port facility access control system
- An electronic access control system is installed for primary access points around the facility. The system is monitored by Harbour staff 24/7.
- Most access points will require a valid pass and PIN to operate.
- Passes are 'anti pass-back' enabled. ALL individuals (with the exception of passengers holding boarding cards and vessel crew) will require a valid pass (permanent/contractor/visitor).
- St Peter Port harbour areas are zoned. Individual passes will indicate which zones the pass holder has permission to enter.
St Peter Port facility
The Harbours' main St Peter Port facility features 3 security zones. Click on each zone in turn to read further information.
Zone 1 is the main cargo handling and crane operating area. It includes 4 Berth, 5 Berth and 6 Berth. The zone is busy with the movement of containers and other general cargo. Users should be aware of items being craned on and off ships and large commercial vehicles bringing items in and out of the area. Care should also be taken if working near quay edges.
Zone 2 consists of the RO-RO (Roll On-Roll Off) trailer park, passenger car check-in and external areas around 1 Berth and 2 Berth on the New Jetty. Users should be aware of trailers and vehicles moving on and off RO-RO ships. Care shall also be taken if working near quay edges.
Zone 3 is the area within the passenger terminal building after security.
Prohibited items
A prohibited article is an item which has been explicitly prohibited from being allowed in the restricted zones due to the risk it presents and where it is being carried without lawful reason. The main categories are:
- Firearms and ammunition.
- Explosives.
- Sharp pointed weapons, knives, swords & razors.
- Incapacitating substances.
- Flammable substances (certain quantities).
Do your bit
All pass holders shall take responsibility for keeping the restricted zones secure. Key measures to support this include:
- Not allowing others to 'tailgate' (enter through a door or gate that you have opened with your pass).
- Challenge any persons within the restricted zone who are not displaying a pass.
- Not to prop doors or gates open at any time.
- To report defective doors, gates or locks immediately to Guernsey VTS.
- To report any loss or misuse of a pass to the Harbour Office / line manager immediately.
- Report any suspicious activity or item immediately.
"Remember if you think something is suspicious report it to us. Don't wait until the ship has sailed as it could be too late!"
Port security contact details
- The Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) is Jerome Davis.
- The Duty Harbourmaster has delegated authority as the Duty PFSO - 24/7 cover.
- Any security related concerns, issues or emergencies shall be raised with Guernsey VTS in the first instance:
- Phone - 01481 220481.
- Marine VHF - Channel 12.
- Internal Phone - 20675 (Harbour Staff only).
Safety
- The primary piece of legislation relevant to Health and Safety in Guernsey is the "The Health and Safety at Work (General) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 1987." It sets out the general duties which employers have towards employees and members of the public, and employees have to themselves and to others. It is criminal law.
- Guidance on how to comply with SOME aspects of the ordinance when working in docks can be found in the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) L148.*
- Guidance on how Guernsey Ports expect you to work safely can be found in;
- Guide for Contractors.*
- Code of Practice in Commercial Zones.*
- *see Guernsey Harbours' website for further information
L148 Safety in docks ACOP 2014
Published by UK HSE, it provides general guidance upon the key requirements for working or operating safely in docks. It covers:
- Managing health and safety.
- Workplace transport.
- Working at height.
- Lifting operations.
- Slips and trips.
- Rescue and life-saving from water.
- Transport by water.
- Lighting.
- Dusty cargoes.
- Musculoskeletal disorders.
- Confined spaces.
- Emergency planning.
- PPE.
- Lone working.
- First aid.
- Accident reporting.
Site access and port activities
- Approaches to the site can be extremely busy with port activities. Great care must be taken in all areas but particularly when crossing ramps or areas where vessel loading and unloading is being undertaken.
- Keep out of vehicle blind spots, ensure that drivers are aware of your presence and try to catch other drivers eye to assure yourself that you have been seen.
- Vehicles should not exit using western vehicle gates unless specifically authorised as part of freight operations.
- Pedestrians should not attempt to use vehicle gates or use the western gate when ferries are operating on the ramp.
Responsibility
Question: Who is responsible for safety? The answer is everyone on our Harbour sites.
Click the forward button to reveal more information.
- You are the expert in your work activities.
- You or your employer must identify and assess the risks to yourself and others.
- You or your employer must remove or reduce to an acceptable level any risks identified and describe control measures you have implemented to achieve this.
- Often called a Risk Assessment Method Statement, Safe System of Work or Standard Operating Procedure.
- Guernsey Harbours have similar responsibilities and can prohibit activities if a safe system of work is not being adhered to.
Accident and hazard reporting
- Details of any accident or near miss should be reported immediately to the Harbour Office either in person or by telephone on 01481 220229 or by email to safeharbours@gov.gg.
- A hazard is an accident waiting to happen, if you see a hazard don't just pass by, warn others and report it to the Harbour Office or member of harbour staff as soon as possible.
- If you are a main contractor that has been given possession of a site, there will be special arrangements in place for health and safety management but accidents and hazards must be reported to the Harbour Office.
Parking
- Parking restrictions should be observed at all times.
- Vehicles and trailers should be safely parked so as not to impede traffic routes, pedestrian routes or crane operating areas.
- Private vehicles are prohibited from parking in restricted areas or on commercial quays unless authorised by Guernsey Ports.
Drugs and alcohol
- No employee, visitor or contractor shall be under the influence of alcohol or drugs that might compromise their own or another's safety whilst on Guernsey Harbours' premises.
- This means that:
You must not be under the influence of alcohol or other non prescription or recreational drugs.
Your GP or medical practitioner should be kept informed about the nature of your work so that they may prescribe appropriate treatments or apply appropriate restrictions to the way you work.
You read and understand advice provided with prescription or over the counter medicines, read the label or packaging, for example some cold remedies advise that machinery or vehicles should not be operated.
Permits to work
- Permits to work are required for the following hazardous activities:
- Blank Permits to Work can be obtained from the Harbour Office
Notices, signs and road markings
Notices, signs and road markings should be observed at all times. They include:
- Speed limits.
- Traffic directions.
- Walkways.
- Requirements for personal protective equipment.
Mobile phones
Although permitted, special care should be exercised when using mobile phones. They can:
- Distract your attention away from port activities.
- Potentially ignite flammable cargoes.
Do not use a mobile phone whilst driving vehicles on Harbour premises
Smoking
Guernsey Ports is proud to be smoke free (including vaping). Please look out for these official advisory signs.
Driving on Harbour premises
When driving on Harbour premises you must:
- Provide evidence of competence.
- Respect traffic systems and pedestrian walkways.
- Exercise appropriate courtesy and caution.
- Adhere to marked speed limits.
Minimum requirements for PPE at all times
PPE stands for personal protective equipment. Click the forward button to reveal the zone and required equipment.
Hi Vis Jacket / Safety Boots / Head
Hi Vis Jacket / Safety Boots.
Personal protective equipment as appropriate to the operation being carried out.
As Appropriate
Hi Vis / Safety Boots. Include Head Protection during any Vessel Moorning Operations and/or when crane / hiab are in use for gangway positioning etc.
Conditional
Commercial berths traffic management, part 1
Pay close attention to these signs and notices across the St Peter Port and commercial areas.
Email safeharbours@gov.gg
Telephone +44 01481 220229
HAZARD: something with the potential to cause harm. Please report hazards immediately using the contact details above or you can complete a hazard card available at reception.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn
Do not use mobile phones whilst driving or operating equipment.
Commercial berths traffic management, part 2
Current traffic management routes. Click an item in the key menu to see its location on the map.
Map Key
Pedestrian walkway
FLT handling areas
Maximum speeds
Two way traffic routes
One way traffic routes
Map Key
Pedestrian walkway
FLT handling areas
Maximum speeds
Two way traffic routes
One way traffic routes
Emergency equipment
- Emergency equipment is placed throughout the harbour estate, it includes:
- Do not interfere with emergency equipment unless in an emergency
- If you use emergency equipment or notice any faults with it, tell us immediately so that we can return it to its proper condition.
In an emergency
- Within Restricted Areas, contact Guernsey VTS, they will liaise with the emergency services and arrange access as required.
- Within Public Access Areas, contact the emergency services in the usual way
Last resort
No Pass - No Job
- We want you to be able to carry out your business in a safe and efficient manner
- We expect you to co-operate with safety and security
- Non co-operation creates un-necessary risk
- Non co-operation can lead to the withdrawal of your pass.
Monitoring and enforcement
- Ships 'Safe Harbour Infringement Penalty System'
Action Notices
Penalty Points
Vehicle Permits