SiP012 – Guidance on Ro-Ro Passenger and Cruise Operations

This guidance covers the safe management of roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) passenger and cruise operations within ports and on vessels. The term Ro-Ro refers to an operation in which cargo is driven on or off, i.e. rolled on and rolled off.  Passenger and cruise operations are the movement of passengers with or without their vehicles and the handling of passengers through ports with or without their luggage. This guidance also covers activities that are not carried out at dedicated passenger terminals.

It is intended that the guidance will be further developed into a single, comprehensive document, incorporating SiP010 Guidance on Ro-Ro and Sto-Ro Operations, and aligned with guidance from the UK Chamber of Shipping to support a consistent approach across both the ports and shipping sectors. This status is reflected within the document through an ‘interim’ watermark.

There is an open access version available to download. This version is available free of charge to PSS non-members and is intended for all companies operating in the UK ports industry with a duty of care and responsibility for the safe management, operation, and control of Ro-Ro passenger and cruise activities. It will also be useful to employees and their representatives.

Following this guidance is not compulsory and individual risk assessments should always be undertaken by competent individuals before undertaking any port operation. By following this guidance, companies and individuals will normally be doing enough to comply with the law. Health and safety inspectors seeking to secure compliance with the law may refer to this guidance.

Companies operating outside the UK may find the guidance helpful but should note that it refers solely to UK legislation.