ABP deepens port safety research

The collaboration brings together ABP and a team of psychologists from the Centre for Human Factors, based within Lampada Digital Solutions, a subsidiary of the University of Hull.

The partnership will survey safety culture across all 21 ABP ports, focusing on perceptions of safety, organisational commitment, leadership, communication and the usability of procedures.

“We are committed to doing all we can to make sure each of our colleagues goes home safe every day,” said Sally Ford, ABP’s group head of health, safety and environment. “We’ve made good progress over recent years, but we know our focus must be relentless. Partnering with the Centre for Human Factors brings a fresh perspective grounded in rigour and evidence.”

Ford also highlighted the importance of working with a local institution. “Collaborating with a University in one of our port locations, Hull, is about more than research. It’s about investing in our community, building lasting partnerships and supporting the local innovation ecosystem.”

Professor Fiona Earle, chartered occupational psychologist and director of the Centre for Human Factors, said the project would go beyond policies and procedures. “Effective safety requires a deep understanding of the unique context within each organisation,” she said. “We are delighted to be working with ABP as we analyse survey results from 21 UK ports and explore emerging issues facing the business.”

ABP operates four ports in the Humber region – Hull, Immingham, Grimsby and Goole –which together handle more than 50 million tonnes of freight annually, forming the UK’s largest gateway for trade by volume.