The Port Marine Safety Code is a national standard for every aspect of port marine safety.
We are committed to maintaining a dynamic, robust safety management system, underpinned by a vigorous safety culture covering all aspects of port marine operations.
The code is in addition to other principal documentation. For example, this includes nautical charts, radio signal lists, light lists, tide and tidal stream tables and pilot books.
Stemming from the "Sea Empress" disaster in the Bristol Channel and culminating in a review of the Pilotage Act 1987, published in 1998; The Port Marine Safety Code was introduced, by the UK Government, for implementation from 1st January 2002.
The Code's aims are:
Portsmouth International Port worked closely with the Dockyard Port and was a member of the Port Marine Safety steering group for the whole harbour. This group was instrumental in consultation with all the stakeholders when the code was first being implemented. The group was superseded by the "Dockyard Port Forum", which was set up primary for consultation with stakeholders and it will continue to meet to discuss port marine safety matters. This further demonstrates ownership and a commitment to policy and involvement of stakeholders.
This safety policy covers the marine operations within the jurisdiction of Portsmouth International Port and Portsmouth Competent Harbour Authority. The following commitments are made:.