THE ITF Seafarers Trust announced the launch of a new three-stage occupational safety and health education program for port workers.
The Seafarers’ Trust is a UK charity established in 1981 that funds programs advancing the wellbeing of maritime workers, seafarers and their families.
Initially this ambitious training program will be rolled out in the ITF Arab World covering 31 ports in 12 countries, engaging with some 36 ITF-affiliated dockers trade unions with the potential to reach around 60,000 workers.
The program features an app-based, awareness-raising component followed by face-to-face training and workplace assignments. It is designed to increase worker participation in the OSH agenda, complementing company initiatives where they exist creating a safer environment for both dockers and seafarers visiting the ports.
The Trust project benefits from the strong support of the ITF’s regional office in Amman and the ITF Dockers’ Section OSH Working Group.
Speaking at the launch, Katie Higginbottom, head of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust said, “Occupational safety and health in the maritime sector is priority area for the Trust and we are delighted to be working with committed leaders in a region with enormous challenges.
“We have brought together a team with exceptional technical skills and experience and aim to have a dramatic and sustainable impact over time. This is a win-win for maritime workers and their employers.”
