SAPO acts ahead of national strike

Jun 1, 2006
Author: SAPO

South African Port Operations, a division of Transnet Ltd said contingency plans had been put in place to minimise the impact on operations ahead of a South African Transport and Allied Works Union strike planned for tomorrow (Friday, June 2).

SAPO Chief Operating Officer, Graham Braby said a number of measures had been planned including ensuring access to the terminals was controlled and manned and extra security staff was retained.

“SAPO has developed a contingency plan to minimise the effect of the strike on operations nationally. This plan has taken into account a number of issues including operational capacity, security and berthing schedules.

“In conjunction with the National Ports Authority, we have taken the necessary measures to ensure that security is not compromised at our terminals and at the ports, in accordance with our ISPS code to ensure the safety of cargo.

“We have adjusted quayside and landside operations at the various terminals across the country including the Durban Container Terminal, which is the busiest terminal in the country.”

Raymond van Rooyen Safety, Health, Environment and Quality manager said: “We have activated our contingency plans for all terminals in order to ensure continuity of normal operations.

“This will take into account the securing of all access control points and critical nodes within the business. The security measures include enhancing security visibility, cooperation with local law enforcement agencies and identifying critical posts within the port that are to be manned.

He said SAPO had informed international and local customers of its contingency plans to ensure a limited impact on operations.