Safety Performance for 2005 Shows Improvement

As previously reported in emonthly, SCT aimed to improve its safety record by reducing its lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) compared to 2004. In practical terms, this meant reducing the number of accidents resulting in employees or 3rd parties being unfit for their normal duties for one shift or more as the result of an accident on the Terminal.

SCT is pleased to announce that it has achieved a reduction of 40% in its LTIFR for 2005 against 2004, compared to a target set by P&O Ports for each of its terminals worldwide of a 20% reduction. However, This improvement is one of a number of safety initiatives targeted during the year whichhave had a positive contribution:

• Implementation of the P&O Ports ‘Fatal 5’ initiative, focussing on key rules to always be followed when working at height, handling loads, working with mobile equipment, with regard to pedestrians and when using contractors.

•  ‘Fatal 5 gap analysis’ to identify where SCT does not currently meet the P&O Ports minimum safety standards, and development of measures to close these gaps.

• ‘Toolbox talks’ being regularly used at start of shift to highlight current safety issues to staff.

• A programme of safety observations by Operational and Engineering Managers, correcting unsafe behaviours, positively reinforcing safe behaviours and discussing safety issues with personnel ‘on the shop floor.’

• Inclusion of a safety component as part of personal objectives for all SCT employees.

The challenge now for SCT is to achieve another 20% reduction in the 2006 LTIFR compared to last year’s performance to make the Terminal an even safer place.