Launch of Safer Ports Initiative 2 (SPI 2)

Having exceeded the original targets set in phase one of the Safer Ports Initiative, there was overwhelming support within the ports industry to maintain the improvement in health and safety standards through the creation of a second phase of the Initiative.

The launch of Safer Ports Initiative 2 took place on 10 May 2006, on HQS Wellington, London. The speakers, supporting the launch, reflected the partnership approach to the Initiative:

• Minister of State for Transport – Dr Stephen Ladyman MP
• Group Chief Executive of ABP Holdings plc – Bo Lerenius CBE
• Chairman of the Health and Safety Commission – Bill Callaghan
• Chief Executive of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency – John Astbury CBE
• Senior Health and Safety Officer at the Trades Union Congress – Hugh Robertson

The launch was hosted by Des Crampton, the Chairman of Port Skills and Safety (PSS).

Senior representatives from throughout the ports industry attended the launch to support the aims of the Initiative and emphasise the wide commitment to achieve continuous improvement.

The launch was well reported in the maritime press.