PSS publishes interim Ro-Ro passenger and cruise operations guidance

PSS has published updated draft interim Ro-Ro passenger and cruise operations guidance. The guidance supports the planning and safe management of passenger and cruise operations within ports, including those which are not carried out at dedicated passenger terminals.

PSS is working with the UK Chamber of Shipping to develop jointly agreed and consolidated industry guidance for vehicle deck safety on roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels. This draft interim guidance forms part of that ongoing work and has been published to support the sector while further review and alignment continues.

The guidance is intended for those involved in the planning, coordination, and delivery of Ro-Ro passenger and cruise operations, both on board vessels and within the terminal environment, including those not carried out at dedicated passenger terminals. It provides practical support for duty holders managing the interface between ship and shore, vehicle movements, pedestrian movements, personnel on foot, supervision, communication, and wider operational risks.

Key changes

The updated guidance includes:

• A stronger focus on the interface between ship and shore communication and control of simultaneous operations.
• Expanded guidance on passenger embarkation and disembarkation.
• New and expanded content on passenger terminal and landside operations.
• More detailed guidance on vehicle and pedestrian interaction.
• Expanded guidance on baggage handling, stores, provisions and contractor movements.
• New and strengthened guidance on slipways, restricted and prohibited items, emergency arrangements involving passengers, and security, search and border operations.

The document has been published with an interim watermark to make clear that further work is continuing. PSS will continue to work with the UK Chamber of Shipping and other industry stakeholders to develop a consolidated approach to Ro-Ro vehicle deck safety guidance.

The SiP is available free of charge to non-members, while PSS members will also have access to a range of supporting resources, including a compliance checklist.

To gain access to the members-only resources please join PSS.