Blog post: PSS visit Portsmouth to explore Ro-Ro ferry operations

Port Skills and Safety’s Chief Executive, Debbie Cavaldoro and Health, Safety & Culture Lead, Jen Maddison visited Portsmouth International Port last week to gain a deeper understanding of roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry operations.

Hosted by the team at Portsmouth International Port, the busy two-day visit included time with Brittany Ferries, Wightlink, and DFDS. The team observed a wide range of activities, including loading and unloading of freight and passenger vehicles, stowing and lashing of unaccompanied freight, and port side operations.

It was a valuable opportunity to see the process in action, understand the communication and coordination between vessel and port teams, and to speak directly with the crews and personnel who manage the Ro-Ro operations.

As well as observing operations around the port, the team also had sessions with HM Border Force, Baileys coach company and Carlisle cleaning company to understand the challenges faced by organisations who work alongside port operations.

Spending time on the ground helped build a clearer picture of the challenges involved and offered the chance to see good practice in action.

PSS would like to thank Portsmouth International Port for arranging such an informative visit and all involved for their time and insight.

Getting out and meeting members and highlighting the important work they do, is a vital part of PSS’s work. To organise a tour of your port, please get in touch. To take part in the ongoing review of SiP010 Guidance on Ro-Ro and Sto-Ro or the future review of SiP012 Guidance on Ro-Ro Passenger and Cruise Operations, register your interest here.