Turkish port in remote-control crane first

The move is part of the terminal’s ‘Zero Tolerance’ safety project which the port says has yielded a significant reduction in workplace accidents, halving lost time incidents since 2018.

The eight remote-controlled electrified quay cranes and eight remote-controlled electrified gantry cranes were commissioned as part of a pilot project to increase safety at the terminal.

“Introducing new technologies and digitalising our operations has been shown to increase efficiency drastically in a sector where business is often done with outdated tools,” explained Kris Adams, chief executive of DP World Yarimca.

“And often – when combined with behaviour changes – these also result in a safer workplace,” he added.

The quay cranes are equipped with collision sensors to help protect terminal employees. Using remote-controlled cranes has also reduced the number of pedestrians in the terminal area.

All terminal operators – from truck drivers to custom brokers and visitors – wishing to enter the port are required to enrol in an HSSE training programme and are given a certificate upon completion.

DP World says that this this approach is helping to identify and address concerns proactively and significantly reduces the risk of injury on-site. Violating the rules results in penalty scores – or even refusal to enter the port.

“Safe terminals mean more efficient cargo handling, increased employee wellbeing, and increased cargo visibility,” said Enoma Woghiren, head of HSSE, DP World Europe.

DP World announced last year that it had reduced injuries across its European ports by investing €80 million in safety practices and equipment upgrades.