The Code relies upon the principle that duties and powers in relation to marine operations in ports should be discharged in accordance with a Safety Management System (SMS).
That system should be informed by and based upon a formal risk assessment.
In simple terms a Harbour Authority has to assess what accidents may happen, take reasonable precautions to prevent such accidents happening and keep
appropriate records. The Code requires that a Harbour Authority must take a pro active role in managing safety, it is no longer acceptable to wait for
an accident to happen and then react. A Harbour Authority is not expected to eradicate all risks. The Code is pragmatic; it directs
that risks should be managed so that they are reduced to as low as reasonably practical (ALARP). This proactive management of risks must be recorded and
must be subject to continual review.
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The Code also requires that the SMS needs to be audited and that those accountable for the Harbour Authority are kept informed about compliance with
the Code and with the operation of the Safety Management System.
As with any Safety Management System the personnel involved need to have their roles clearly defined. This extends from the highest levels of
authority down through all levels of management and to the staff. Everybody in the "team" needs to know what is expected of them and how to meet that expectation.
The Code recognises that Harbour Authorities have been created by statute to serve a public interest. It directs that Harbour Authorities should engage in full
consultation with all those who have an interest in the harbour.
Page 3 - Basic requirements of the Port Marine Safety Code
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