What's Happening?
The British Ports Association (BPA) has announced the commencement of a new compliance exercise for the Ports and Marine Facilities Safety Code (PMSC) for the 2026-2028 period. This exercise, led by the Maritime
and Coastguard Agency, is open until the end of March 2026 and invites participation from ports, harbors, and marine facilities across the UK. The initiative aims to ensure alignment with the PMSC through a new online submission process. The BPA is advocating for widespread participation to demonstrate the sector's commitment to high safety standards. The PMSC, a cornerstone of the UK's port safety strategy, was introduced 25 years ago and has evolved into a leading resource for managing marine risks.
Why It's Important?
This compliance exercise is crucial for maintaining high safety standards in the UK's port sector, which is vital for the country's economy and international trade. By encouraging participation from a wide range of marine facilities, the BPA aims to reinforce the effectiveness of the PMSC and its non-statutory, partnership-based approach. This initiative not only ensures the safety of maritime operations but also strengthens the UK's position as a leader in marine safety standards. The exercise's success could influence future regulatory frameworks and enhance the global reputation of UK ports.
What's Next?
The compliance exercise will run until March 2026, during which ports and marine facilities will submit their compliance documentation. The BPA will likely continue to promote participation and provide support to ensure a high level of engagement. The results of this exercise could lead to further developments in marine safety regulations and practices, potentially influencing international standards. Stakeholders, including government bodies and industry leaders, will be closely monitoring the outcomes to assess the effectiveness of the PMSC and its impact on marine safety.
