Safety training gets practical orientation

CONTINUous improvement in personal safety and health standards in Port Elizabeth terminals has had a positive spin-off for cargo owners, as well as the people working in the ports, says Mzonke Nondwangu, SA Port Operations’ safety and environmental manager at the PE Port. “It is important that lives are saved because they are irreplaceable. But it is also important to ensure that the cargo of customers is well-maintained. The end-user must receive it as the port has received it.” Sapo is continuing to upgrade its processes and procedures to reduce cargo damage, says Nondwangu. One of the innovations has been a shift in emphasis with regard to training. It has moved away from theory and the lecture room to the workplace. “We take everyone through every step of their job, from the time they clock in to the time they leave. “By focusing on the risks in the actual workplace we are finding that people understand the concepts more readily, and that compliance is higher,” he says. Sapo expects safety compliance from all staff members and people entering the port for business purposes. This is underscored by visible signs which warn that safety requirements must be adhered to on the premises. “As a service-provider to businesses, Sapo’s customers naturally expect the port to comply with international and national safety standards, says Nondwangu. The PE terminal has received a four-star rating from the National Occupational Safety Association (Nosa) while East London car terminal received a Noscar. The same association has also awarded four-stars to the multi-purpose terminal and five-stars to the PE port’s car terminal.