British Ports Association launches new coronavirus information hub
The British Ports Association (BPA) has announced it has launched a new information resource for UK ports dealing with the coronavirus outbreak.
It said in a statement that the ports industry undertakes a vital role in the UK economy, facilitating trade, fuel, energy, fishing, recreation and tourism. It added that two tiers of Government and the industry are committed to UK ports staying open to help sustain the country during this challenging time.
The BPA said it has been “working flat-out” to support the industry with regular calls and correspondence with the UK and devolved Governments on everything from business support and key workers, to security and fishing: “We are also continuing to push for an expansion of testing and protective equipment for ports’ essential key workers.”
Given the volume of information and guidance being issued on a daily basis from Government(s) and numerous agencies, the BPA is now signposting all of this content in one place in a clear and concise manner.
Ports have been receiving daily updates on a wide range of topics as they are announced, but the BPA recognise this can be overwhelming so have gathered everything in one place.
In cooperation with the UK Government, the Association will be keeping the hub up to date with the latest Government guidance and information.
The BPA said it is working closely with members to help answer any questions they have and feed any concerns onto government where relevant. Industry best practice is also being developed where processes and procedures need to be amended to take into consideration the new way of working, for example operating pilot cutters and managing vessels whilst taking into account government’s strict new social distancing requirements.
Sara Walsh, the BPA’s Corporate Services Manager, said: “This new information hub is the go-to ports industry resource on coronavirus and we are encouraging those across the sector to share with contacts both internal and external to their organisations.
During this rather unusual and challenging time all UK ports are under a lot of pressure and are having to make difficult decisions about how best to maintain their workforce so critical tasks are performed and legal duties met, whilst also supporting staff who are working at home or are self-isolating.”
Mark Cranshaw, Associate at Hill Dickinson, added: “The vast majority of those working at UK ports are considered to have ‘key worker’ status which provides an exception to the government’s strict social distancing guidance to stay at home and permits travel for work purposes (where work cannot be performed from home). Like many other sectors who have ‘key workers’, this presents as a unique and unprecedented challenge for all UK ports.”
For more information visit www.britishports.org.uk/coronavirus
7th April 2020
