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DOCKWORK SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARDS

Pursuant to Section 6-a(iii) and Section 26(a) of Presidential Decree No. 857
otherwise known as the “Revised Charter of the Philippine Ports Authority”,
the following safety standards, procedures, rules and regulations are hereby
prescribed for the guidance of and compliance by all concerned.

ARTICLE I. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1. Title –

This body of safety standards, procedures, rules and regulations shall

be known as the “Dockwork Safety and Health Standards” and shall herein-
after be referred to as “Standards”

Section 2. Objective –

The objective of this “Standards” is to ensure and improve safe and

healthy working conditions in all ports and harbors of the country thereby
preventing work connected illnesses and accidents that may cause injuries,
loss of lives and damage to property.

Section 3. Scope –

The provision of this “Standards” shall apply to all port users,

arrastre/stevedoring contractors, operators of ancillary port services, and
operators of other similar or related services and their employees or
dockworkers.

Section 4. Definitions –

1. “Authority” means the Philippine Ports Authority.

2. “Port Users” refer to the bodies, organizations or persons,

including those engaged in maritime services, who own, control
and/or work on board vessels or in other workplaces within the
jurisdiction of the Authority.

3. “Personal Protective Equipment” includes equipment

necessary for the protection of dockworkers and other persons
against bodily harm resulting in sudden illness, occupational
disease or injury.

4. “Dockworker” means and includes all or any part of the work,

or those duties associated with the work, performed on shore or
on board vessel/ship, of loading and discharging any vessel/ship
whether engaged in maritime or inland port, harbor, dock, wharf
quay or similar place at which such work is carried out.
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5. “Vessel” includes any ship, boat (other than a rowing boat)

barge or floating construction such as floating dock, a drilling
platform or any similar floating structure.

6. “Ancillary Port Services” include all port services (excluding

pilotage, arrastre stevedoring and porterage) which complement
the operation of the port an contribute to its cargo checking,
container/chassis repair services, CY/CFS operations, ferry
boat/water taxi services, food catering, garbage/oil sludge
collection, husbanding, laundry services, maritime equipment
leasing, security services, ship chandling, ships salvaging ship
repair/cleaning/chipping services, trucking/hauling, tug services,
vending and vendo machine operation, water (supply) services
and other similar or related services.

7. “Port District” means the territorial jurisdiction under the

control, supervision, or ownership of the Authority over an area
(land or sea), declared as such in accordance with Section 5 of
the Presidential Decree No. 857 including but not limited to any
port within the said district.

8. “Competent Person” means a person, through his experience

and/or training became qualified and has been authorized to
perform a task or function or assume a responsibility in a
manner that will prevent danger or accident as far as is
practicable.

9. “Port Management Unit” (PMU), means the unit or office of the

Authority other than its principal office.

10. “Fire Lane” means an aisle or alley that is open/unobstructed at

all times for the expedient operation of fire fighting units.

11. “Hydrostatic Test” means pressure test by hydrostatic method.

12. “Corrosion” means the chemical action on inanimate surface

such as metal, glass or wood resulting to the wearing off of such
materials.

13. “Operational Area” refers to area/place where cargo handling

operations and other port related activities are carried out.

14. “First Aider” means any person trained and duly certified or
qualified to administer first aid by the Philippine National Red
Cross or any other organization accredited by the same.

15. “Dunnage” refers to materials, temporary or permanent, used

to ensure efficient storage, give protection to cargo and ensure
necessary ventilation.
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16. “Container Terminal” means a port facility designed to provide

an integrated use of berthing facilities for container vessels
together with the handling, storage, and transport system for
containers and containerized cargo.

17. “Grid” means an area clearly designated and set aside for the
loading/unloading of containers to and from road transport
vehicle using any of the various types of container lifting
equipment.

18. “Dangerous Goods” mean those goods listed in the

International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code of the
International Maritime Organization (IMO), and the Dangerous
Goods Manual of the appropriate agencies of the Philippine
government and the Blue Book (United Kingdom Carriage of
Dangerous Goods in Ships).

19. “Explosives” mean any chemical compound or other

substances intended for the purpose of producing an explosive
or that which contains oxidizing or combustible unit or other
ingredients, in such proportion or quantity that ignition by fire,
friction, concussion, detonation or shock action may produce an
explosion capable of injury to persons or damage to property.

20. “Gases” refer to compressed, liquefied, or dissolved under

pressure gases including poisoning gases.

21. “Flammable Liquid” means liquid which gives off flammable

vapors at or below 61oC (140oF) closed cup test, or
corresponding to 55.6oC (150oF) open cup test.

22. “Combustible Liquid” means liquid having a flashpoint at or

above 61oC (140oF) closed cup test or corresponding to 65.6oC
(150oF) open cup test.

23. “Flammable Solid” means any substances liable to

spontaneous combustion and when in contact with water,
inflammable gas is emitted.

24. “Flashpoint” means minimum temperature at which any

material gives off vapor of sufficient concentration to form an
ignition mixture with air.

25. “Oxidizing Agents” means substances which in themselves

are not necessarily combustible; but generally by yielding
oxygen, may cause to contribute combustion of other materials.

26. “Organic Peroxide” means a strong organic compound which

releases oxygen readily, causes fire when in contact with
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combustible materials especially under conditions of high

temperature.

27. “Poisoning” refers to substances when swallowed, inhaled or

by skin contact liable to cause death, serious injury to human
health.

28. “Radioactives” mean substances which spontaneously emit a

significant radiation and of which the specific activity is greater
than .002 micro curie per gram.

29. “Corrosives” include substances which are solid or liquid

possessing, in their original state, the common property of
causing more or less severe damage to living tissues and which
may cause fire when in contact with organic matter or with
certain chemicals.

30. “Bulk Cargoes” mean a homogenous cargo stored in bulk, that

is to say, loose in the hold and not enclosed in any container
such as boxes, bags, casks, and so on. Bulk cargo may be
composed of free flowing articles such as oil, grain, coal, and so
on.

31. “Break-bulk” mean cargoes which are packed in drums, bags,

crates, cartons, or case-like but not contained in van.

32. “Fiber Cargoes” refer to combustible materials such as cotton,

hemp, kapok, straw, hay, paper, jute and sisal.

33. “Naked Lights” mean those lights without any protective

devices or fittings.

34. “Freeboard” means the distance of the outboard edge of

vessels deck above the water line.

35. “Gangplank” means a narrow, portable flatform used as a

passage by persons entering or leaving a vessel moored along
side a quay, pier, wharf, or another vessel.

36. “Hatch Covers” mean the covers of the vessel’s hatch

consisting of beams, hatch boards/pontoons and tarpaulins.

37. “Limit Switch” refers to a device that substantially limits the

extends of the movement of a crane or any part of a crane by
cutting off the power at the limits.

38. “Automatic Overload Cut-Out” refers to a device that

automatically limits the load of crane or part of a crane by cutting
off the power when that load exceeds the safe working load.
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39. “Indicator of Safe Working Load” refers to a device that

automatically indicate visually (whether a load is suspended or
not) the designer’s safe working load rating of the crane at the
various radii of the load.

40. “Fall” refers to the entire length of rope in a tackle, the end
secured to the block is called standing part, the opposite end is
the hauling part.

41. “Pendant” refers to the rope connecting the standing block of a

purchase with the point of the attachment.

42. “Purchase” means a general term for any mechanical

arrangement of tackle which increases the force applied by a
combination of pulleys.

43. “Rigging” means a general term for all ropes, chains, and gear
used for supporting and operating mast, yards and booms.

44. “Union Purchase” refers to a method of rigging derricks so that

they can load and discharge cargo while the booms are held in
one position.

45. “Loose Gear” means a hook, ring, shackle, link, lifting beam,
lifting frame or any similar article of equipment by means of
which a load may be attached to a lifting appliance and which
does not form an integral part of the lifting appliance.

46. “Hold” refers to the general name for spaces below deck,
designated for the stowage of cargo.

47. “Hatch Beam” means a portable traverse beam placed across

a cargo hatchway that acts as a bearer to support the hatch
covers.

48. “Hatch” refers to an opening, generally rectangular, in a ship’s

deck affording access into the compartment below.

49. “Block (Cargo Block)” a term which applies in general to all

single or multiple-sheaved blocks used on board ship for cargo
lifting purposes. It includes topping lift, derrick head, and heel or
lead block.

50. “Cargo Hook” refers to the hook fastened at the end of a cargo
whip for loading and landing cargo.

51. “Dockworker” refers to a person who deals with work on shore

and on board vessel.
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52. “Arrastre” means receiving and loading/discharging cargoes

from the port to the ship’s tackle and vice versa with the use of
dock (arrastre) gang and cargo handling equipment. It includes
other services such as cargo checking, sorting and piling of
cargoes inside shed/open storage, stripping and stuffing of
containers, securing cargoes from pilferage and other related or
similar services on dock.

53. “Stevedoring” means all works performed on board vessel,

that is the process or act of loading and unloading cargo,
stowing inside hatches, hold and on deck or open cargo spaces
on board vessel. Related services to stevedoring are the
activities of rigging ship’s gear, opening and closing hatches,
securing cargo stored on board, and other related or similar
services on board vessel.

54. “Safety Officer" refers to the person officially appointed or

designated to supervise the handle all safety matters of the
company.

55. “Appliance” means any device, machine or equipment.

56. “Safety Committee” refers to a group of people organized to

assist its management in all undertaking on safety.

Section 5. Enforcement and Administration –

A. The enforcement and administration of this “Standards” shall be

the responsibility of the Authority pursuant to the Memorandum
Agreement between the Authority and Ministry of Labor and
Employment signed on June 10, 1981.

B. Periodic Inspection of the Port District premises shall be done by

the General Manager and/or his duly authorized representative.

C. Special inspection, investigation and review may be conducted

by the Authority upon the instance of any worker or any of his
duly authorized representatives who believes that any violation
of any provision of this “Standards” exists which threatens
physical harm or poses eminent danger to life. The complainant
shall be notified in writing of the result of the investigation.

D. Compliance with the provisions of this “Standards” shall be one

of the vital points to be considered in the evaluation of
applications for issuance/renewal of permits and contracts of
persons and entities engaged in cargo-handling and ancillary
services.
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Section 6. Duties and Responsibilities of Port Users –

A. Employers that employ dockworkers shall:

1. Provide such facilities and equipment, maintain and

operate the same to ensure the safe and healthy
conditions of work;

2. Cooperate with other port users in keeping workplaces

and equipment safe and healthy;

3. Provide dockworkers with personal protective equipment,

safety devices and other safeguards while in the
performance of their duties.

4. Adequately supervise and promptly instruct dockworkers

regarding the hazards of their respective occupations and
the precautions necessary to avoid illnesses, accidents
and injury to life and property;

5. Ensure that dockworkers are fully informed of the

contents of national or local regulations related to their
protection against accidents and injuries to life and
property.

B. Dockworkers shall:

1. Report promptly to their foremen or employer, or if

necessary to the Authority, any defect in the equipment
and/or workplace that may cause immediate danger.

2. Observe all protective measures, use safety devices and

other safeguards at all times while in the performance of
duties.

3. Make themselves acquainted with and obey all safety and

health instructions pertaining to their work.

4. Refrain from careless or reckless practices or acts that

are likely to result in accidents or injuries to life and
property.

C. All port users and ancillary port service operators and their
employees shall cooperate in carrying out measures that will
promote the safety and health in dockwork without prejudice to
any obligations laid upon them by national regulations.
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ARTICLE II. PERSONNEL COMPLEMENT AND TRAINING

Section 1. Safety Officer –

A. All Arrastre/Stevedoring Contractors shall employ a full time

Safety Officer who shall be required to take Occupational Safety
and Health Course accredited under the Occupational Safety
and Health Standards under Article 162 of the Labor Code of the
Philippines (Presidential Decree No. 442).

B. Other organizations concerned in dockwork having:

1. Two-hundred (200) or more workers shall likewise employ

a full-time Safety Officer who shall be required to take the
duly accredited Occupational Safety and Health Course.

2. Less than two-hundred (200) workers shall train at least

one of its supervisors or technical personnel on First Aid
and Occupational Safety and Health Course.

Section 2. Duties and Responsibilities of the Safety Officer –

For the purpose of this “Standards” the Safety Officer has the following
duties and responsibilities;

1. Acts in and advisory capacity on all matters pertaining to safety;

2. Plans and develops safety program for the establishment;

3. Conducts accident investigation;

4. Coordinates all safety training programs;

5. Conducts safety inspection;

6. Maintains or helps in the maintenance of an efficient accident record

systems and checks action taken by supervisors to eliminate accident
causes;

7. Provides assistance to the Authority and other government agencies

concerned in the conduct of safety and health inspection, accident
investigation or any related program; and

8. Formulates and implements safety policies, rules and regulations.

Section 3. Training –
All port users and ancillary port service operators shall be
responsible for the development of effective safety training
programs for their employees/dockworkers, supervisors, and
managerial staff.
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ARTICLE III. SAFETY PROGRAM

Section 1. Responsible Organizations –

All Arrastre/Stevedoring Contractors and other organizations

concerned in dockwork shall be responsible for initiating and
maintaining a sound safety program.

Section 2. Elements of Safety Program –

The elements of a Safety Program shall include but shall not be limited
to:

A. Management’s Safety Policy

1. Objectives, Duties and Responsibilities of Management

2. Duties and Responsibilities of the Workers/Supervisors

B. Safety Inspection

C. Accident Reporting, Investigation, and Analysis

D. Safety Motivation

E. Safety Training

ARTICLE IV. SAFETY COMMITTEE

Section 1. General Requirements –

The type of Safety Committee shall conform to the standards set forth
under Article 162 of the Labor Code of the Philippines. Safety Committees
shall be organized by every Arrastre/Stevedoring Contractors and other
organizations engaged in dockwork.

Section 2. Types and Composition –

A. Type A. For each company concerned having a total of over

four hundred (400) workers, a Safety Committee shall be
organized consisting of:

Chairman - The manager or his authorized

representative who must be a top operating
official.
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Members - Two department heads

Two workers (must be union members, if
organized)
The company physician

Secretary - Safety Officer

B. Type B. For each company concerned having a total of two

hundred one (201) to four hundred (400) workers, a Safety
Committee shall be organized consisting of:

Chairman - The manager or his authorized

representative who must be a top operating
official.

Members - One Supervisor

One worker (must be a union member, if
organized)
The company physician or the company
nurse

Secretary - The Safety Officer

C. Type C. For each company concerned having one hundred

(100) to two hundred (200) workers, a Safety Committee shall
be organized consisting of:

Chairman - Manager or his authorized representative

Members - One Foreman

One worker (must be a union member, if
organized)
The First Aider

Secretary - Appointed by the Chairman

D. Type D. For each company concerned having less than one

hundred (100) workers, a Safety Committee shall be organized
consisting of:

Chairman - Manager

Members - One Worker

One Foreman

Secretary - Appointed by the Chairman

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Section 3. Duties of the Safety Committee –

The principal duties of the committee are:

A. Directs the accident prevention efforts of the establishment in

line with the safety program adopted and other existing
government related regulations;

B. Conducts safety meeting at least once a month;

C. Reviews reports on inspections, accident investigation and

implementation program;

D. Submits reports to the Management on meetings and activities;

E. Provides necessary assistance to all duly authorized inspecting

authorities in the enforcement of the provisions of this
“Standards” and other safety laws of the land;

F. Initiates, coordinates and supervises safety training for

employees/workers.

Section 4. Term of Office of the Members –

For the purposes of this “Standards”, and whenever possible, the term
of office of the worker-member in Type A and Type B Committee shall be two
(2) years each and in Type C, D and E shall all be one (1) year.

The Chairman, physician or nurse and the secretary shall be

permanent members of the committee.

Section 5. Submission of Minutes of Meeting –

The Organized Safety Committees shall submit to the PMU concerned,

a copy of the minutes of the Committee meeting.

ARTICLE V. ACCIDENT REPORTING

Section 1. Duties and Responsibilities –

A. It shall be the responsibility of Arrastre/Stevedoring Companies

and other port users to report to the Authority all work accidents
and occupational illness resulting from the condition of
employment or from the activity performed in connection with
such employment every third day of the month using the
Accident Report Form prescribed by the Authority.
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B. When the accident or illness results in death or permanent total

disability the port user in addition to the written report required
above, shall initially notify the Authority within 24 hours using the
fastest means of communication. The Authority shall then take
the necessary steps and/or make recommendations to prevent
the recurrence of the same.

ARTICLE VI. HOUSEKEEPING

A. All wharves, quays, decks and similar places where dockwork is

performed as well as stairways, passageways and access ways
shall be kept free of any obstruction at all times.

B. Repair and maintenance personnel are required to clean up

places when their jobs is completed. This includes removal of
scraps of metal or wood, refuse, wires, oily rugs, spilled
flammable liquids, greases or other slippery and dangerous
substances which shall be cleaned up immediately.

C. Loose gear, tools and similar equipment shall be removed from

working areas when not in use. They shall be adequately
secured.

D. The port users concerned shall properly dispose of all broken

straps, exposed nails, or wires from containers or unit loads.

E. All port users concerned shall provide appropriate container

(covered if necessary) for the collection and separation of trash,
rags and other refuse, especially waste soiled by combustible or
flammable material. Disposal shall be made daily and as
frequent as necessary.
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ARTICLE VII. ILLUMINATION

Section 1. General Provision –

A. All places where persons work, or pass, or may have to work

shall be provided with adequate natural or artificial lighting or
both suitable for operation and the special type of work being
performed.

B. The general lighting shall be of uniform level and widely

distributed to avoid harsh shadows or strong contact and free
from direct or reflected glare.

Section 2. Illumination Requirements –

A. The general illumination in areas or docks, wharves and quays

where dockworkers have to pass shall be at least twenty (20) lux
(2 foot candles).

B. A minimum of 50 lux (5 foot candles) shall be provided for

passageways, corridors, stairways, warehouses, storehouses,
and stockrooms, and/or places where loading or unloading
operations are in progress on board ships and lighters.

ARTICLE VIII. VENTILATION

Section 1. Natural Ventilation –

Suitable atmospheric conditions shall be maintained in enclosed work

areas by natural means to avoid insufficient air supply, stagnant of vitiated air,
harmful drafts, excessive heat or cold, sudden variations in temperature,
excessive humidity or dryness and objectionable odors.

Section 2. Mechanical Ventilation –

Where an adequate supply of fresh air cannot be obtained by natural

ventilation or where it is difficult to get the desired amount of air at the center
of the enclosed work areas without creating uncomfortable drafts near the
inlets, mechanical ventilation shall be provided.
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ARTICLE IX. ELECTRICAL WIRINGS, APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT

Section 1. General Provisions –

A. All electrical equipment and circuits used in the Port District shall
be designed, constructed, installed, protected and maintained in
accordance with the Philippine Electrical Code.

B. Only technically competent and duly authorized persons shall be

permitted to install, adjust, examine, repair, displace or remove
electrical equipment/wiring/apparatus.

C. Safety switch boxes, panel boards, circuit breakers and electric

meters shall be kept closed, unobstructed and secured against
theft.

D. Electrical equipment/wirings/apparatus shall be inspected

annually by the port users concerned.

Section 2. Approval of the Authority –

A. No electrical installation/repair shall be undertaken by the

Arrastre Contractors and other port users concerned without the
plans/request having been approved by the Port Engineer or the
duly authorized representative of the Port Management Unit.

B. All installations/repairs undertaken shall be directly under the

supervision of the Authority.

Section 3. Prohibited Acts –

It shall be prohibited to:

A. Tap directly power from lighting posts and safety switch boxes;

B. Bridge a fuse with wire or other metal other than the required
rating in accordance with the Philippine Electrical Code;

C. Work alone on live circuits; and

D. To engage in other acts similar to the above-mentioned

activities.
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Section 4. Maintenance –

A. All electrical installation and danger signs installed shall be well

maintained by the port users concerned.

B. The Arrastre Contractors or the port users concerned shall

provide/obtain and maintain at all times circuit directly on panel
boards and shall see to it that the transformer vaults are always
padlocked, painted red and properly marked with “Danger” sign,
in areas to assigned to them by the Authority.

ARTICLE X. FIRE PREVENTION, PROTECTION AND CONTROL

Section 1. Fire Fighting Equipment –

A. All places of employment in the Port District shall be provided

with the necessary fire fighting equipment.

B. All fire fighting equipment shall be located in accessible areas

and kept unobstructed. All such locations shall properly be marked and
labeled.

C. No person shall remove, tamper with, or otherwise disturb any

fire fighting equipment required to be installed or maintained except for the
purpose of extinguishing fire, training purposes, recharging or making
necessary repairs, or when permitted by the Safety Officer of the Authority or
his duly authorized representative. Whenever fire fighting equipment is
removed as herein permitted, it shall replaced or installed as soon as the
purpose for which it was removed had been accomplished.

D. All fire fighting equipment shall be maintained in operating

condition at all times and shall be replaced or repaired when found defective.
All repair and servicing shall be made in accordance with the Rules and
Regulations of the Fire Code of the Philippines.
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Section 2. Fire Fighting Requirements –

A. For each shed/warehouse/open storage with an area of less

than 250 square meters, the following fire fighting equipment shall at least be
provided;

1. One (1) fire extinguisher, twenty (20) pounds capacity and multi-
purpose type;

2. One (1) sand drum (1/2 size of 55 gallon drum) filled with sand;

3. One (1) water drum (55 gallon drum) with cover filled with water
to the brim, painted red with marking of “For Fire Use Only”;

4. One (1) shovel placed adjacent to sand drum; and

5. Three (3) buckets, each painted red with marking of “For Fire
Use Only” and place adjacent to water drum.

B. For each warehouse/open storage with an area of 250 square

meters to less than 500 square meters, the following fire fighting equipment
shall at least be provided;

1. Two (2) fire extinguishers, each twenty (20) pounds-capacity

and multi-purpose type;

2. Two (2) sand drums (each 1/2 of 55 gallon drum) filled with sand
and accessible in case of fire;

3. One (1) water drum (55 gallon drum) with cover filled with water
to the brim, painted red with marking of “For Fire Use Only”;

4. One (1) shovel placed adjacent to sand drum;

5. One (1) fire ladder;

6. One (1) Fire Ax; and

7. Three (3) buckets, each painted red with marking of “For Fire
Use Only” and place adjacent to water drum.

C. For each shed/warehouse/open storage with an area of 500

square meters to less than 750 square meters, the following fire fighting
equipment shall at least be provided;

1. Three (3) fire extinguishers, each twenty (20) pounds-capacity

and multi-purpose type;

2. Two (2) sand drums (each 1/2 size of 55 gallon drum) with cover,
painted red with marking of “For Fire Use Only”;
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3. Two (2) water drums (each 55 gallon drum) with cover filled with
water to the brim, painted red with marking of “For Fire Use
Only”;

4. Two (2) shovels placed adjacent to sand drums;

5. One (1) fire ladder;

6. Two (2) fire axes; and

7. Six (6) buckets, each painted red with marking of “For Fire Use
Only” and place adjacent to water drums (3 buckets per drum).

D. For each shed/warehouse/open storage with an area of 750

square meters and above, the following fire fighting equipment shall at least
be provided;

1. Four (4) fire extinguishers, each twenty (20) pounds-capacity,

multi-purpose type;

2. Two (2) sand drums (each 1/2 size of 55 gallon drum) with cover,
painted red with marking of “For Fire Use Only”;

3. Two (2) water drums (each 55 gallon drum) with cover, filled
with water to the brim, painted red with marking of “For Fire Use
Only”;

4. Two (2) shovels placed adjacent to sand drums;

5. One (1) fire ladder;

6. Two (2) fire axes; and

7. Six (6) buckets, each painted red with marking of “For Fire Use
Only” and place adjacent to water drums (3 buckets per drum).

E. In each pier/wharf/quay and Container Yard, the Arrastre

Company shall provide at least one portable water pump with the
following specifications:

1. The capacity shall be at least 250 gallons per minute at 100

pounds per inch (psi);

2. Fire pump shall possess an auxiliary means of power; and

3. Fire hoses shall be provided with a maximum length of 33.5

meters (100 ft.)
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Section 3. Fire Extinguishers –

A. Fire extinguishers shall be maintained in a fully charged and

operable condition, and kept in their designated places at all times
when they are not in use

B. Each fire extinguisher shall have a durable tag security attached

to show the maintenance or recharge data and the initials/signatures of
the persons who performed the services.

C. If, at anytime, an extinguisher shows evidence of corrosion or

mechanical defect, it shall be subjected to hydrostatic pressure test
and shall be replaced if found defective.
D. Extinguishers shall be refilled immediately after use.

E. It shall be prohibited to remove and/or tamper inspection tags

attached to fire extinguishers.

F. On the place where extinguishers are located, the type and use
of extinguishers and instructions on their proper use shall be marked in
visible and readable letters.

G. All fire extinguishers shall be of the type approved by the

Product Standards Agency.

Section 4. Fire Fighting Requirements at Dangerous Cargo

Areas –

In addition to the fire fighting requirements mentioned in Section 2 of

this Article, all Dangerous Cargo Areas, regardless of the size, shall be
provided with at least three (3) fire extinguishers of 50 pound capacity each,
wheel mounted, two (2) of which shall be of foam type and the other one (1)
shall be of BCF Type.

Section 5. Fire Brigade –

A. On each pier of working area, a well-trained and equipped fire

brigade shall be provided on a 24 hours basis by the Arrastre
Contractors.

B. The members of the fire brigade shall be physically fit for the job
and properly trained on fire fighting, use hose line, salvage
operations, rescue operations, first aid and other related
activities.

C. The organization and the composition of the fire brigade shall be

as provided by the requirements of the municipal/city fire
department/district.
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Section 6. Fire Fighting Drills –

A. Fire Fighting Drills shall be held at least once every two (2)
months or as often as necessary by the Fire Brigade of the
Arrastre Contactors and other port users concerned and
subsequently thereafter a fire drill report shall be submitted to
the Authority.

B. Such drills shall closely approximate actual conditions of fire

fighting including use of equipment.

C. All drills shall be held in the presence of the Safety Officer of the
Authority or his duly authorized representative.

Section 7. Spacing –

A. Fire Lane of at least one (1) meter wide inside and outside the
transit sheds/warehouses shall be established and maintained
free from obstruction.

B. Fire exit doors shall be well marked and shall not be obstructed.

C. A clearance of at least one (1) meter from the wall of the

warehouse /structure to the pile stack, and from pile to another
pile shall be maintained.

Section 8. Fire Hazard Inspection –

Inspection of the premises shall be made by the Arrastre Contractor’s

Safety Officer to prevent the establishment from or aggravation of fire
hazards. All hazards noted shall be immediately corrected and reported to
the Authority.

ARTICLE XI. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Section 1. General Requirements –

A. All port users shall provide their dockworkers with safety gloves,
hard hats and safety shoes, and in no case shall the said
workers be allowed to work without them.

B. Where dockworkers are exposed to poisonous or irritating

concentrations of dust/vapor, suitable respiratory equipment
shall be provided and worn. Ear protection shall be provided to
the workers against excessive noise within the work place.
 20

C. Port personnel and other persons, other than the dockworkers,

shall wear while within the operational areas the necessary
protective equipment as provided by the management
concerned.

D. Dockworkers shall be instructed in the use of protective clothing

and equipment provided.

Section 2. Approved Type –

A. All personal protective equipment shall be of the approved type.

Section 3. Care and Maintenance –

A. The port user concerned shall be responsible for the adequacy

and proper maintenance of personal protective equipment used
in his workplace.

B. Dockworkers shall make proper use and care of the protective

clothing and equipment provided.

C. Protective clothing and equipment shall be cleaned at suitable

intervals.

D. Where protective clothing and equipment may be contaminate

by poisonous or other dangerous substances, they shall be
cleaned or decontaminated immediately. Where such is not
immediately possible, effective measures shall be undertaken to
avoid the risk of contamination.

ARTICLE XII. MEDICAL AND DENTAL SERVICES

Section 1. Emergency Medical and Dental Services –

A. When the number of workers is fifty (50) or less, the port user
concerned shall provide a full time first aider.

B. When the number of workers exceeds fifty (50) but not more
than two hundred (200), the port user concerned shall provide
the service of a full time registered nurse.
 21

C. When the number of workers exceeds two hundred (200) but not
more than three hundred (300), the port user concerned shall provide the
services of a full time registered nurse, a part time physician and dentist, and
emergency clinic.

D. When the number of workers exceeds three hundred (300), the

port user concerned shall provide the services of a full time physician, full time
dentist and a full time nurse and infirmary or emergency hospital with one bed
capacity for every one hundred workers (100), and a dental clinic. An
employer may not establish an emergency hospital or dental clinic where
there is a hospital or a dental clinic which is not more than five (5) kilometers
away from the place of work if situated in an urban area, or can be reached in
twenty-five (25) minutes of travel if situated in a rural area and there are
facilities of transport. For this purpose, the employer shall enter into a written
contract with the hospital or dental clinic for its use in case of emergency. A
copy of the contract shall be provided the Authority.

E. In all workplaces where there are more than one workshift, the
port user concerned shall in addition, provide in each other shift the services
of a part time first aider if the number of workers is not more than fifty (50) and
full time first aider if the number of workers is over fifty (50).

Section 2. First Aid Boxes –

A. A sufficient number of suitable and adequately stocked first aid

boxes or cupboards shall be made available at every working place.

B. The contents of first aid boxes shall comply with the relevant
provisions of the Philippine National Red Cross and other appropriate national
regulations and standards.

C. Nothing except appliances or requisites for first aid shall be kept

in first aid box and cupboard, and shall contain simple and clear instructions
to be followed in emergencies.

D. The contents of first aid boxes shall be checked by the port user
concerned and necessary replenishment shall be made.

Section 3. Stretchers –

A. Every contractor shall provide at least one stretcher for every

300 workers.

Section 4. Clinic –

A. A suitably equipped clinic shall be provided by the port users

concerned having one hundred (100) or more dockworkers.

Section 5. Transport of Sick/Injured Person –

 22

A. Arrangements shall be made by the employers concerned to

ensure the prompt transport of sick or injured workers to a hospital or other
equivalent treatment center to include facilities for promptly obtaining an
ambulance, carriage or launch from some place situated within a reasonable
distance of the working area.

B. In emergency cases, the employer shall provide any available

conveyance to transport the sick or injured worker to nearest clinic/hospital.

Section 6. Medical Examination –

A. All possible steps shall be taken to ensure that all dockworkers

undergo a medical examination:

1. before entering employment for the first time (pre-employment

examination) or when being selected or trained for the operation
of mechanical equipment;

2. periodically, at such intervals as may be considered necessary

by the Authority in view of the risks inherent in the work, and the
conditions under which the work is performed. The interval
between two (2) consecutive periodic examinations shall not be
more than one year.

B. In case where workers are exposed to special occupational

health hazards the periodical medical examinations shall include all
special investigations deemed necessary for the diagnosis of
occupational disease.

ARTICLE XIII. PERSONNEL FACILITIES

Section 1. General Provisions –

A. Toilet facilities, washing facilities, canteens and other service

facilities shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the provisions of
PPA-Management Contract awarded and shall be:

1. suitably situated, dimensioned, constructed, enclosed and

equipped for their purpose;
 23

2. maintained in a clean and sanitary condition;

3. well ventilated and lighted.

Section 2. Drinking Water –

A. The facilities for drinking water provided for common use shall
be maintained by the Arrastre Contractor.

B. Containers with potable water shall be fitted with a cover and

faucet. Such container shall be labeled “For Drinking Only”.

C. Where water provided for use in dockwork, including fire

protection, is unsuitable for drinking purposes, conspicuous points of
supply stating clearly that such water is not fit for drinking.

Section 3. Toilet Facilities –

A. Toilet facilities shall be provided at each workplace with the

following ratios:

1. When the number of workers is not more than twenty (20) the
required minimum number of facilities shall be one (1) toilet seat
and one (1) urinal;

2. When the number of workers exceeds twenty (20) but not more
than two hundred (200), one toilet seat and one urinal shall be
provided per forty (40) workers;

3. When the number of workers exceeds two hundred (200), one

toilet seat and one urinal shall be provided per fifty (50) workers.

B. A floor drain with water seal shall be provided in each toilet room
to facilitate flushing of the floor.

C. Toilet fixtures shall be shall be constructed and maintained in

conformity with good sanitary standards.

D. Toilets shall be provided with washing facilities and maintained

in a clean and sanitary condition.

Section 4. Mess Rooms and Canteens –

A. All cafeteria, restaurants, mess facilities and related

establishments operating in the port shall be maintained in
compliance with the regulations of the Authority and of the
Ministry of Health.

B. Covered receptacles shall be provided and used for the proper

disposal of waste food.
 24

C. Mess rooms shall be provided with drinking water and adequate

facilities for washing/cleaning utensils, tablewares, etc.

ARTICLE XIV. MATERIALS HANDLING AND STORAGE/STACKING

Section 1. General Provisions –

A. The method of stacking or storage of goods shall be determined

by the nature and type of packaging of the goods.

B. Palletized cargoes shall be arranged:

1. As complete pallet loads; or

2. On pallet racking.

C. Stacked or stored goods shall be broken down systematically

from the top in order to ensure stability of the main body of the stacks.

1. The shape and relative fragility of the article shall be

considered when the stack is being built up.

2. Long thin articles (other than timber) shall be stored in

horizontal rack.

3. Box-shaped articles shall be built into a stack with

suitable building.

4. Cylindrical articles may be stored on end or on their

sides. When cylindrical articles are on their sides, the
floor level tier shall be properly chocked by wedges to
prevent movement.

5. All materials (palletized and unpalletized) shall be placed

and stored in a secured manner to prevent them from
falling, sliding or rolling.

D. Liquid containers and those of wet and moist goods shall always
be stored apart from dry goods.

E. Goods giving off a strong odor shall be separated from the

others to eliminate or minimize damage by contaminating or
tainting.

F. “Leaning” stacks or piles shall be restacked immediately.

 25

G. Materials shall not be moved or suspended above workmen

unless adequate precautions have been undertaken to protect
the workmen from falling objects.

H. Materials/cargoes placed on trailers or trucks for movements

within the warehouse, pier or outside the port zone shall be
secured and tied to prevent materials from falling off.

I. Article that are to be lifted by forklifts and other lifting devices

shall be jacked up by skids to allow forks or slings to be inserted
or removed.

J. The maximum weight of cargoes for manual handling should be

limited to fifty five (55) kilograms.

Section 2. Proper Handling of Bagged Cereals and Other Grain

Products –

A. Cereal and other grain products for shipment unless in bulk,

shall be placed in sacks of strong materials to withstand the
stain and stress of handling.

B. Unmarked or improperly marked sacks shall not be accepted by

the Arrastre Contractors prior to shipping.

C. Pallets, sliding boards, stevedoring platform, net, rope slings

and other equipment used in handling bags of cereals shall be in
good condition and free from protruding nails, sharp objects or
any piercing material.

D. Hooks shall not be used in handling cereal bags to prevent

damages to sacks and eventual spillage of the products.

E. Upon discharge, cereal and other grain products, if piled and

bagged inside warehouses or bodegas, shall be piled using
dunnage/pallets high enough from being reached by water; and
if placed in the open storage areas shall be additionally covered
with tarpaulin.

F. Spilled grains or cereals shall be immediately placed in bags or

containers to be provided for such eventuality by the Arrastre or
Stevedoring Contractor.

Section 3. Discharging/Loading of Logs –

A. In ports with no stacking areas for logs, logs shall be directly

discharged from/loaded to log vessels from/to trucks, trailers or
lighters in the case of shipside discharge.
 26

B. In addition to appropriate gears, a minimum of one (1) log clam

(tong) or one (1) or two (2) wire slings (estrobo), per lift shall be
used in every discharge of logs, relative to the weight, length,
and diametrical size of the logs.

C. Handling of logs may be permitted on piers/ships/wharves/

anchorage designated by the Authority in case direct discharge
to trucks, trailers or lighters is not possible. Provided, however,
that the first two logs to be discharged shall be placed along
quay ledge fronting the hatch to prevent damage to pier
facilities.

D. Outriggers of cranes used in discharging/loading of logs shall

not be mounted on top of the pier ledge or in any unstable
structure.

E. Log vessels that have deeper draft than what can be

accommodated in piers, slips or wharves shall undertake
lightering operation at areas in anchorage designated by the
Authority.

F. Rafting operations shall be allowed from sunrise to sunset only

subject to the following conditions:

1. A permit from the Authority which shall prescribe the rafting

requirements shall be secured per operation;

2. A minimum of two (2) cables or wire ropes of sufficient strength

shall be employed in towing;

3. A sufficient number of personnel shall be employed; and

4. The towing tugboat shall at all times display the prescribed

international signals during the entire operation.

Section 4. Discharging/Loading of Lumber –

A. Lumber other than fliches, shall be crated, bound or bundled.

B. Loose or uncrated lumber shall be discharged only if there is

available storage area. Otherwise, they shall be allowed for discharge
only if there are trucks available for immediate and direct delivery.

C. Proper care shall be observed and appropriate cargo handling

operations shall be applied in the discharging/loading of lumber.

Section 5. Paper Pulp –

A. Bales shall be stacked one tier above the other with each tier
crisscrossing one another (llave) to prevent the pile from collapsing.
 27

B. Adequate air spaces shall be left to avoid the danger of

spontaneous combustion.

Section 6. Paper Reels, Drums, Etc. –

A. Where stacking is carried out by means of a lifting appliance

fitted with drum or squeeze clamps, the reels or drums may be stacked
on end. The reels or drums of the same diameter shall be tacked
together.

B. The height of the stack shall be limited by taking into

consideration the diameter and weight of the reels or drums.

C. Where feasible, drums should be palletized.

Section 7. Steel Sheets and Plates –

A. Where the sheets are packaged, and are of limited size and
weight, they maybe stacked upon each other to a height not exceeding
two (2) meters, the bundles being segregated by suitable separators.

B. When individual sheets of appreciable weight are stacked in

vertical position, supports of adequate strength and solid foundation
must be provided. Plates stored in this fashion shall be handled by
self-locking plate clamps.

Section 8. Coiled Steel Sheet –

A. Coiled steel sheet may be stacked in resting tiers, that is with

coils in the tier resting in the hollows formed by tier below.

B. The tier at floor level shall be firmly chocked to prevent them

from rolling.

C. If the coils are of varying diameter, they shall be stacked in

descending order of size with coils of the largest diameter being at floor
level.

D. The height of the stack shall be limited to not more than five (5)
tiers.

Section 9. Pallets –

A. General Provisions -

1. When pallets are selected, care shall be taken to ensure

that they are of adequate strength and shall take into
 28

consideration such particulars as load distribution,

handling and storage methods.

2. Pallets shall be fitted with fastening devices in the form of

bolts and nuts, drive screws, annular threaded nails or
fastening of equivalent strength.

B. Use of Pallets -

1. Before being put to use, pallets shall be inspected

to ensure that they are in safe condition. All
damaged pallets shall be withdrawn for repair or
destruction.
2. Empty pallets shall be carefully handled and not be
dragged.

3. Pallets shall be loaded with goods at an

established pattern designed to achieve maximum
stability within the rated load of the pallet. As a
general guide, the height of the load shall not
exceed the longest base dimension. Loads shall
be applied gradually for point loading and shall be
uniformly distributed.

4. If pallets are to be stacked, a firm level base on the

floor or deck or on top of the preceding pallet shall
be provided. Generally, loaded pallets shall not be
stacked more than four (4) high. Pallets shall not
be stacked in racks unless they are suitable for
this method of storage.

5. Care shall be exercised when straps are used to

secure loads to pallets.

6. The forks of handling machines shall extend into

the pallet at a distance equivalent to at least 75%
of the dimension of the pallet and the forks shall be
so spaced that the maximum support is given to
the pallet when it is lifted.

7. Pallets handled by crane shall be lifted only by

suitable fork attachments or, in the case of wing
pallets, by bar slings with spreads.

8. Loaded pallets, which on visual examination do not

meet the requirements of this section, shall before
being handled be replaced with pallets that meet
those requirements.

C. Inspection of pallets for damage –

 29

1. When inspecting pallets for damage, the following

danger points shall be considered:

A. Old Pallets:

1. Damaged bearers or stringers;

2. Split or displaced blocks;
3. Protruding nails pulled through deck
boards;
4. Damaged deck boards, particularly
leading-edge board; and
5. Loose boards permitting the pallet to
distort or rock.

B. New Pallets:

1. Distorted or split bearers, or

stringers;
2. Split blocks;
3. Badly spaced or protruding nails;
4. Badly spaced or split deck boards;
and
5. Extensive bark or knot inclusions in
any member.

ARTICLE XV. WAREHOUSES

Section 1. General Provisions –

A. Stacks shall be laid out in an orderly manner with aisles at least

three (3) meters wide to permit the safe use of forklifts and other cargo
handling equipment.

B. The aisles shall be clearly marked by continuous yellow lines

and shall be kept clear of obstructions such as cargo, dunnage, gear and
equipment.

Section 2. Access to Top of Stack –

A. Safe means of access to the top of a stack shall be provided.

B. Where a ladder is used to provide access to the top of a stack;

1. It shall be so placed that the person gaining access can

step safely from the ladder to the top of the stack;
 30

2. The person shall take particular care when stepping from

the ladder on to goods such as bales of paper pulp that
may wobble or give way under his weight; and

3. It shall be at its best condition.

Section 3. Maintenance –

A. Warehouses and storeplace shall be maintained in a safe

condition and all dangerous conditions found in floors, steps, galaries, stairs,
hoist, hatches, etc., shall immediately be corrected/repaired.

ARTICLE XVI. FREIGHT CONTAINER TERMINAL

Section 1. Access and Movement Control of Pedestrian/Vehicle

–

A. Only authorized persons and vehicles shall be allowed to enter

into the container terminal.

B. Appropriate access control regulations and procedures shall be

instituted by the Arrastre Contractor and/or terminal owner to prevent
unauthorized entry and to control the movement of pedestrians and vehicles
in various terminal areas.

C. The Arrastre Contractor and/or terminal owner in coordination

with the Authority shall provide well-defined vehicle and pedestrian routes.
Where practicable, the pedestrian route shall be fenced to prevent people
from straying into dangerous areas.

D. Trucks and private cars shall be required to follow designated

vehicle routes and unauthorized vehicles shall be prohibited from entering
operational areas, most specially areas where containers are being
discharged from or loaded to vessels.

E. The Arrastre Contractor and/or terminal owner shall provide

highly visible traffic and safety signs which shall be placed in various strategic
areas in order to guide the movement of pedestrians and vehicles inside the
container terminal.

F. Safe means of access shall be provided for containers that are

required to be examined by customs officials. In cases where customs
officials need to go into the stacks, they shall comply with the prescribed
access procedures of the terminal with respect to cargo examination.

Section 2. Handling of Containers –

The Arrastre Contractor and/or terminal owner shall ensure that:

 31

A. When handling containers, various types of container lifting

equipment shall be used and operated in accordance with prescribed
procedures, with emphasis on the safety aspect of container loading activities.

B. The safe load bearing capacities of various structures within the

terminal shall be taken into consideration when handling containers to
promote safe stacking of containers, efficiency of operations, and protection of
lives and terminal facilities.

C. The safe working load capacities of container handling

equipment and shore cranes shall be observed to prevent unsafe operation
and damage to equipment.

D. The actual weight of loaded containers shall be ascertained

before hoisting. Containers exceeding the maximum allowable capacity of
lifting equipment shall not be handled.

E. The grid shall be used solely for the loading and unloading of
containers. An oversized or problem container which cannot be safely
handled by the grid shall be moved to another area specially designated for
such operations.

F. During loading and unloading of containers the driver shall leave

the vehicle and stand at a safe distance and shall not return to the vehicle
until the container lifting equipment had departed from the grid.

G. Once the vehicle is clear of the cargo handling equipment, the

containers loaded onto trucks shall be properly secured using twist locks or
any locking devices acceptable to the Authority.

H. Proper procedures in the stripping and stuffing of cargo in

containers shall be observed. Stripping and stuffing of containers mounted on
chassis shall be done only after safety props of sufficient capacity have been
placed near the front to cushion the container in case chassis legs give in to
its weight.

I. Proper stowage of cargo inside containers shall be observed

taking into consideration such factors as weight distribution and weight
limitations. Weight distribution during stuffing operations shall as far as
possible be uniform throughout the floor area of containers.

J. Stacked containers, particularly empty, and major container

handling equipment shall be properly secured and safeguarded during
typhoons and severe weather conditions. Appropriate safety precautions
shall be observed when handling containers during inclement weather.

Section 3. Hauling of Containers –

A. The safe operating load of trucks and container-transport-

vehicles shall not be exceeded.
 32

B. A container-transport-vehicle with overhanging container shall

be prohibited from entering or leaving the terminal.

C. Containers shall be properly secured to vehicles by means of

twist locks or any locking devices acceptable to the Authority.

D. When hauling containers, truck helpers shall be permitted to ride

only inside the truck’s cab and never in any part of the container-transport-
vehicle.

E. Safe allowable speed shall be observed when hauling

containers, especially when negotiating road curves and bends, carrying
heavy loads, or driving during nighttime, through rains, and low visibility
conditions.

F. The general safety condition and roadworthiness of container-

transport-vehicles shall be thoroughly checked before hauling containers.

Section 4. Unsafe Containers and Equipment –

A. Unserviceable or unsafe vehicles, containers, equipment and

facilities shall be immediately removed from the operational area and
appropriately marked to ensure that they are not used until completely
repaired.

B. Damaged containers discharged from vessels shall be

immediately inspected and properly handled with such special means that will
ensure safe operations.

C. Containers entering or leaving the terminal shall be inspected for

damage and proper measures shall be taken if the containers are found to be
unsafe.

D. Reports on damaged containers, equipment and various

facilities in the terminal shall be immediately submitted to the Safety Officer of
the rightful owner for appropriate action in order to prevent further damage
and unsafe operations.

E. An area for the unserviceable/dilapidated containers and dead

line equipment shall be established outside the operational area.

ARTICLE XVII. DANGEROUS GOODS

Section 1. Classification of Dangerous Goods –

A. Class I. Explosives
 33

1. Division 1.1 - Explosives with a mass explosion risk. (Ex.

TNT, detonators for blasting, nitroglycerine, etc.)

a) Initiating explosives; contrivances which contain

both explosives and their own means of ignition.

b) Explosives substances other than initiating

explosives.

c) Contrivances designed to produce incendiary

smoke or sound effects, igniters, starter cartridges;
small arms ammunitions; fireworks liable to
explode violently.

2. Division 1.2 - Explosives which do not explode en

masse. (Ex. flares, fireworks, picrite, etc.)

a) Contrivances containing explosives, with or without

their own means of ignition.

b) Samples of explosives other than initiating

explosives.

3. Division 1.3 - Explosives having a fire hazard with minor

or no explosion effects. (Ex. blasting caps, cords igniter,
fuses igniter, etc.)

a) Substances which cannot explode en masse but

the ignition of which give rise to considerable heat
radiator.

b) Articles which by their nature or as a result of the

manner in which they are packed cannot explode
en masse and which in the event of fire burns one
after another producing minor or no explosion of
projection effects.

B. Class II. Gases (Ex. Argon, Acetylene, helium, etc.)

1. Gases which cannot be liquefied at ambient

temperatures;

2. Gases which can become liquid under pressure at

ambient temperatures;

3. Gases dissolved under pressure in a solvent, which may

be absorbed in a porous material;

4. Refrigerated gases, e.g. liquid, air oxygen, etc.

 34

C. Class III. Flammable Liquids

1. Class 3.1 - Low flashpoint group having a flashpoint

below 18 C (0oF); (Ex. Gasoline, hexane, vinyl, ethers,
o

etc.)

2. Class 3.2 - Intermediate flashpoint group having a

flashpoint of 18oC (0oF) up to 23oC (73oF); (Ex resin oil,
methyl alcohol, ketone, etc.)

3. Class 3.3 - High flashpoint group having a flashpoint

of 23oC (73oF) up to 61oC (141oF); (Ex paints, resin wood
preservatives, etc.)

D. Class IV. Flammable Solids

1. Class 4.1 - Inflammable Solids; (Ex. celluloid x-ray

films, etc.)

2. Class 4.2 - Substances liable to spontaneous

combustion; (Ex. charcoal, copra, fishmeal, etc.)

3. Class 4.3 - Substances emitting inflammable gases

when wet; (Ex. magnesium alloys, sodium metal, zinc,
etc.)

E. Class V. Oxidizing Agents and Organic Peroxides

1. Class 5.1 - Oxidizing Agents; (Ex. nitrate compounds,

inorganic chlorides, potassium nitrate, etc.)

2. Class 5.2 - Organic Peroxides; (Ex. organic peroxides,

diacetyl peroxide, dibenzoyl peroxides, etc.)

F. Class VI. Poisonous (Toxic) and Infectious Substances; (Ex.

cyanides, barium compounds, pesticides, etc.)

G. Class VII. Radioactive Materials; (Ex. cobalt, uranium thorium,

etc.)

H. Class VIII. Corrosives (Ex. acids, acetic oxide, terric chloride,

etc.)

I. Class IX. Miscellaneous dangerous substances (Ex. quick lime,

calcium oxide, insecticides, etc.)

Section 2. General Restrictions –

A. The carriage of dangerous goods in ships/vessels is prohibited

unless in accordance with the Philippine Marine Rules and Regulations of the
 35

Philippine Coast Guard or other safety regulations promulgated by other

government agencies concerned.

B. The import, export, loading, discharging or transport of

dangerous goods within the limits of any port or Port District shall be
undertaken only in accordance with this “Standards”, and in addition to
whatever regulations or requirements imposed by other appropriate agencies
of the Philippine government.

C. No dockworker shall be permitted to work in holds, containers,

or in enclosed spaces, which have been fumigated without protective
equipment and entry has been certified safe by a competent person.
Furthermore, no dockworker shall be allowed to work alone in such
aforementioned places.

D. No dangerous goods shall be brought into any port or Port

District unless such goods are declared and adequately described in Inward
Manifest and are certified in said manifest by the master or agent of the
vessel that the said goods are properly marked, packed, labeled in
accordance with the IMO’s International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code or
classified by the proper agencies of the Philippine government. Such
certificate or declaration shall indicate the correct technical name and identity
of the goods and the class to which it belongs under the appropriate
classification.

E. No defective package/container with dangerous goods inside

shall be landed or brought on to any pier/slip except upon permission of the
Authority.

F. No dangerous goods shall be loaded or discharged between the

hours of 1800 and 0600 without permission of the Authority.

G. No vessel with explosives or dangerous goods on board shall

remain alongside any other physical landing between the hours of 1800 and
0600 without permission of the Authority.

H. No transferring, loading, unloading, stripping, stuffing,

transporting and other movement of dangerous goods shall be allowed unless
covered by an appropriate Handling Permit for Dangerous Goods issued by
the Authority.

Section 3. Vessels Carrying Dangerous Goods –

A. It shall be the duty of the shipping agent/owner of every

incoming foreign and domestic vessel to notify the Authority or the Port
District of the existence of dangerous goods thru the “Notice of
Arrival/Application for Berth” and Dangerous Cargo Manifest inclusive of the
following information:
 36

1. Kinds of Cargo
2. Physical Characteristics
3. Flashpoint (In case of flammable liquids)
4. Volume and/or Weight
5. Place of Storage on Board
6. Port of Discharging or Transit Control

B. Every vessel while in Port carrying inflammable cargoes or

explosives shall hoist a red flag on its forestruck or foremost. If there is only
one mast, at the mast head; or if there is no mast, on a pole at least 6 feet
above the highest point of the vessel; and at night, a red light shall replace the
red flag.

C. Smoking and the use of naked light, with the exception of the
required lights (regulations lights as night on board any vessel carrying
inflammable or explosives within the harbor limits) shall be strictly prohibited.

D. Vessel of any kind carrying inflammable or explosives shall not

lie alongside nor be tied to another vessel, except when actually discharging
or receiving such cargo. They shall be berthed at such place designated by
the Authority and shall be discharged or loaded without delay.

E. Whenever vessels carrying dangerous goods are not engaged

in loading/unloading operations, their hatches shall be closed and secured.

F. The Captain/Patron or the Person-In-Charge of any vessel

carrying dangerous goods shall be responsible for the following safety
precautions which shall be taken at all times when such dangerous goods are
on board, or are being loaded into, or discharged from such vessel;

1. A ship’s officer who shall be specifically responsible for

ensuring that the prescribed safety measures are taken
shall remain on duty until relieved by equally competent
person.

2. An efficient ship’s fire fighting brigade shall be at instant

readiness for duty.

3. A regular and efficient fire patrol shall be maintained on

board vessel.

4. While alongside the pier/wharf/slip, the vessel shall

maintain a state of readiness as may enable it to leave
the pier/wharf/slip without delay.

G. No vessel carrying dangerous goods which caught fire or had an

explosion while enroute to any port or Port District shall be allowed to berth
alongside the pier/wharf/slip unless permitted by the Authority. By such
permission shall only be granted upon presentation of the following:
 37

1. A certification from the Captain that the fire has already

been extinguished, or that there is no more danger of
explosion and that vessel is safe in all respect;

2. A joint certification from the Philippine Coast Guard and

the Classification Society Surveyor that it is already safe
to work on the ship;

3. A certification from the National Pollution Control

Commission or the Philippine Coast Guard that there are
no more dangerous fumes or smoke and it is safe to work
on the ship;

4. If there are radioactive materials on board, there must be

clearance from the Philippine Atomic Energy
Commission.

H. When a vessel with dangerous goods on board catches fire or

has an explosion while in port, work on board shall immediately be stopped
and shall resume only upon permission of the Authority, and after the above
stated certification from the concerned agencies have been submitted to the
Authority.

I. The master of the vessel shall ensure the display on any

hatches with dangerous goods appropriate safety symbols or signals that
such is stored.

Section 4. General Requirements for Security, Storage, Loading

and Unloading of Dangerous Goods –

A. Dangerous goods shall be loaded/unloaded, handled and stored

only under the supervision of the Cargo Handling Contractor’s Safety Officer
or his authorized representative.

B. Dockworkers required to handle dangerous goods shall be

instructed by the Contractor in the safe handling, storage and specific
requirement for their protection.

C. Incompatible, dangerous goods that tend to react with each other

shall be stored in separate areas.
D. Containers of dangerous goods shall be inspected from time to time
while in storage by Contractor’s Safety Officer or his duly authorized
representative. However, this does not preclude inspection by other
authorized persons/agencies.

E. Dangerous cargo area shall be adequately secured, well illuminated

and guarded.

F. Unauthorized persons shall be prohibited from entering any

dangerous cargo area.
 38

G. All dangerous goods, except explosives and radioactives, shall be

stored at designated dangerous cargo areas or at places authorized by the by
the Authority.

H. Dangerous goods shall not be loaded or unloaded simultaneously

with other cargoes unto or from the same hatch of the vessel.

I. Incompatible dangerous goods shall not be loaded or unloaded

simultaneously using the same pallet.

J. In the event packages/containers of dangerous goods are broken or

damaged while they are being loaded/unloaded, effective steps shall taken by
the party or parties concerned to isolate the damaged goods. In case of
emission of combustible matters, spark producing activities shall be
prohibited.

K. Adequate ventilation shall be provided and maintained in the

storage area where dangerous goods are stored.

L. When flammable goods are being loaded or discharged, fire fighting

equipment shall be made available at the vicinity of the operation.

Section 5. Emergency Case –

1. In case of emergency or in order to insure the safety of the port,

the Authority may destroy, transfer, dispose of any dangerous
goods, and Authority shall not be liable for the payment of
compensation thereof.

2. In cases when the cargoes on board vessel caught fire or

emitted obnoxious/toxic fumes, the Authority may cause the
transfer of the carrying vessel to a safer area.

Section 6. Shipside Discharging/Loading of Dangerous Goods –

A. Dangerous goods under Class 1.1 (explosives) shall be

loaded/discharged at the explosive anchorage, regardless of whether the
same are destined for any port or Port District before the carrying vessel shall
not be allowed to dock alongside the pier.

B. Dangerous goods enumerated below with specific

volume/weight and carried in break-bulk shall be loaded from or discharged
into lighters outside or inside breakwater.

1. Fiber cargoes in bales in excess of three hundred metric

tons; and
 39

2. Nitrate compounds such as ammonium nitrate, sodium

nitrate, etc. in excess of 10,000 bags.

Section 7. Stripping and Stuffing of Dangerous Goods –

A. Break-bulk export dangerous cargo for stuffing inside the port

shall be brought to the Container Freight Station (CFS) forty-eight (48) hours
before the arrival of the carrying vessel so that the stuffing can be finished
within twenty-four (24) hours before the actual loading.

B. Bad Order (BO) dangerous goods loaded in container shall be

immediately transferred to dangerous cargo area and be opened only upon
the permission of the Authority and the Bureau of Customs.

C. No dangerous cargo container shall be stripped/stuffed at pier

except at places designated by the Authority.

D. Workers involved in stuffing/stripping of dangerous goods

particularly, toxic and corrosive cargoes shall wear personal protective
clothing and equipment.

E. No dangerous goods with leaks shall be placed in container.

F. Incompatible dangerous goods shall not be stuffed in the same

container.

Section 8. Dangerous Cargo Container –

A. Container with dangerous goods shall be properly labeled and

marked as recommended by International Maritime Organization (IMO).
There shall be at least four labels placed externally in conspicuous places,
one on each side and one on each end. If possible, an additional label should
be placed on top of the container.

B. Containers loaded with incompatible dangerous goods shall be

stacked at least twenty (20) feet (6.10 meters) apart.

C. All dangerous good labels shall be removed by the shipping

agents, or the owner of the container concerned as soon as the containers
are rendered/declared non-hazardous.

D. Irrelevant labels placed on containers shall likewise be removed

by the Shipping Agent or the owner of the container concerned.

Section 9. Handling of Explosives –

A. All class 1.1 explosives of IMO classification shall be discharged

and loaded only are explosive anchorage.
 40

B. Explosives other than Class 1.1 may be allowed to discharge or

load at the pier only upon favorable recommendation of the Safety
Officer/Administrator of the Authority and upon the supervision of military
explosive ordinance trained personnel.

C. Packages of explosives shall not be thrown, rolled, dragged or

slid over each other or over any surface near their contents be allowed to drip.

D. Before explosives are loaded to or unloaded from vessel, the

master of the vessel is required to ascertain by examining boxes, chutes,
tackles and other equipment to be used in the transfer operation.

E. No explosives shall be stored within the port zone.

F. The persons concerned shall provide all working areas with

warning sign “Danger Explosives”.

G. Smoking, open flames, the carrying of matches/lighters or any

articles producing sparks as well as any activity that may cause fire shall not
be allowed.

H. No person shall handle explosives while under the influence of

intoxicants or drugs.

Section 10. Handling/Storage of Compressed Gases –

A. Cylinders containing the same gas shall be stored separately

from other type of gases. Empty cylinders shall likewise be stored in the
same manner.

B. Cylinders containing oxygen or oxidizing gases while in storage

shall be separated from cylinder containing fuel gases by at least twenty (20)
feet (6.10 meters) or by a fire resistive partition.

C. Compressed gases shall be separated from inflammable or

combustible materials by at least forty (40) feet (12.0 meters) or a fire resistive
partition.

D. Cylinders shall be adequately protected against excessive

changes of temperature, direct rays of the sun and continuous dampness.

E. Precautions shall be taken that the safety devices with which the
cylinders are equipped are not tampered with.

Section 11. Handling/Storage of Flammable and Combustible

Liquids –

A. Drums, barrels, and other flammable liquid containers shall be

kept tightly capped.
 41

B. Flammable and combustible liquids shall not be stored near

oxidizing compressed gases.

Section 12. Handling/Storage of Flammable Solids –

A. Flammable solids shall be stored in a dry place and extreme

care shall be exercised to prevent entry of moisture.

B. Flammable solids shall be kept separately from oxidizing agents,

and other materials which can react with air or moisture.

Section 13. Handling of Fiber Cargoes –

Fiber cargoes not in excess of three hundred (300) metric tons may be
allowed to be stacked temporarily at area designated by the Authority,
provided that the following conditions are met:

A. There is available and adequate space for stacking;

B. Stay time of cargoes shall not exceed twenty-four (24) hours

from time of discharge;

C. Fibers shall not be stacked adjacent to buildings, combustible

materials or oily substances, unless clear distance not less than the height of
the pile is maintained between such stacking area and combustible materials,
buildings, and oily substances.

D. Fibers shall be provided with fire retardant tarpaulins covering all

sides to avoid accidental ignition from external sources.

E. Stack pile of fibers shall be closely watched/guarded by

representatives of arrastre contractor.

F. Damaged bales or scattered fibers shall be recovered and

rebelled immediately.

Section 14. Storage of Oxidizing Agents –

A. Oxidizing agents shall not be stored close to flammable

materials.

B. Oxidizing agents shall be kept away from acids.

Section 15. Handling/Storage of Poisonous Substances –

A. Poisonous (toxic) cargoes shall be stored in a separate storage

from all foodstuffs in order to avoid contamination.

B. Containers of poisonous substances shall be kept tightly closed.

 42

C. Personnel required to handle poisonous cargoes shall be

provided with appropriate equipment.

Section 16. Handling of Radioactive Materials –

A. The carriage and handling of radioactive materials shall be

governed by the code and regulations set by the Philippine Atomic Energy
Commission. Such activities shall be undertaken under the direct supervision
of PAEC representative/s whether at piers or anchorage.

B. No radioactive materials of any category shall be stored inside

the port.

Section 17. Storage and Handling of Corrosive Cargoes –

A. Where corrosive materials are handled, dockworkers shall be

required to use protective gloves and other appropriate safety equipment.

B. Carbouys for acid shall not be piled one on top of another but
shall be placed in suitable storage racks or wooden strips laid on the floor.

C. Areas where spillage of corrosive liquids occurred shall be

cordoned off by parties concerned until all appropriate safety measures have
been taken.

D. Corrosive materials shall be stored away from combustible

materials and oxidizing agents.

E. When loading/unloading corrosive liquids and gases,

appropriate neutralizing agent and sufficient water shall be made available by
the Arrastre contractor in order to control unsafe conditions which may occur.

ARTICLE XVIII. SAFETY OF DOCKWORKERS ON BOARD VESSEL

Section 1. Means of Access to Vessel –

A. Sufficient, safe and suitable means of access to vessel such as

accommodation ladder, gangway or rigid ladder shall be available for the use
of dockworkers passing to and from vessel.

B. The means of access shall be of sound material and

construction and adequate strength, and be securely installed and kept in a
good condition.

C. Dockworkers shall not use any means of access other than the
means specified.
 43

D. It is impractical to use the vessel’s accommodation ladder,

gangplank, or portable ladder; a rope ladder may be used as the access from
a vessel of low free board.

E. A safety net shall be provided and secured to the vessel and the
dockside, underneath the means of access, to prevent injury/damaged to
falling persons/cargoes.

F. Entrance to any means of access shall be secured and

unobstructed.

G. Accommodation ladders shall be provided with rollers.

H. Any means of access shall be properly illuminated.

Section 2. Gangplanks –

A. A gangplank shall –

1. Have a closely boarded walkway of at least 76.20 cm. In

width.

2. Be fitted with traverse treads of suitable stopping intervals

and

3. Be fitted with appropriate handrails to secure the same to

the vessel

B. If the gangplank’s weight is such that a lifting appliance has to

be used to place it in position, the gangway shall be fitted with proper signing
attachments so placed that it will balance when it is suspended.

C. Where gangplank rests upon a vessel’s bulwark, safe means of

access shall be provided for a person to pass to and from the vessel’s deck to
the walkway of the gangplank.

D. Any gap between the end of the gangplank and the adjacent
vessel’s rails through which a person is liable to fall shall be properly secured.

Section 3. Portable Ladders –

A. When a ladder other than a rope ladder is in use –

1. The top should rise at least one (1) meter above the
handling place or the highest point to be reached by
person using the ladder; and

2. The ladder shall not stand upon any loose packing but
each upright shall properly rest upon firm and level
footing.
 44

B. A ladder other than a rope ladder shall be prevented from

detachment or shifting -

1. By using securely fixed at its upper resting positions; or

2. If it cannot be secured at the top, being securely fixed at

its base; or

3. If fastening at the base is also impracticable, by having a

person stationed at the foot.

C. Each ladder shall be inspected at suitable intervals by a

responsible person, preferably a supervisor. If defects are found, the ladder
shall be immediately taken out of service.

Section 4. Rope Ladder –

A. Rope Ladder shall –

1. Not to be used for any purpose other than providing

access from a vessel to a barge or similar vessel of lower
freeboard.

2. Be fitted with treads that have a non-slip top surface.

3. Be so rigged that the treads are horizontal.

4. Be fitted with spreaders at interval not greater than nine

(9) treads apart. The spreader shall:

a. be made in one piece

b. have an over-all length of not less than 1.8 meters.

B. Safe means shall be provided between –

1. The top of the ladder and the deck of the vessel;

2. The barge or other vessel and the lower part of the

ladder.

C. The ladder shall hang fully extended when in use and shall not
be positioned over or in close proximity to a discharged opening in the
vessel’s side.

Section 5. Transport of Dockworkers Or Any Other Persons By

Water –

A. When dockworkers or any other person have to be transported

to or from a vessel or any other place, suitable and proper measures should
 45

be taken to provide for their safe passage under the supervision of the
captain, patron or anybody who is in command of the vessel.

B. In particular, the used shall be –

1. Of suitable construction, properly equipped for use and

navigation and maintained in seaworthy state.

2. Manned by an adequate and experienced crew under the

charge of a competent person.

3. Be provided with life jackets based on the maximum

passenger capacity of the vessel.

C. In the case of boat driven by mechanical power –

1. The number of persons the boat can safely carry aboard

should be certified by a competent person and the said
certification should be displayed in conspicuous place;

2. Adequate supply of suitable fire extinguishers shall be

carried;

3. To protect a person from falling overboard, the boat shall

have either a bulwark at least 60 cm. or rigid rail at least
75 cm. high.

D. Embarkation and disembarkation shall take place only at

suitable landing places duly designated by the Authority.

E. All dockworkers or passengers shall -

1. Obey any instruction relating to their safety or the safety

of the boat in which they are traveling given by the
competent person in charge of the boat; and

2. Embark and disembark only when the boat is properly

moored and then so in an orderly manner.

Section 6. Hatches –

A. Every cargo hatch shall be protected by means of a coaming or

fencing to a height of at least one (1) m. above the deck or any other level at
which a dockworker may be expected to stand.

B. Suitable wire rope or chain may be used for fencing, provided

that

1. Means are fitted for keeping the wire or chain taut;

 46

2. The wire rope to be used shall have sufficient wires per

strand to make it flexible; and

3. Wire ropes are free from broken wires

C. The following fencing requirements shall be kept in place at all

times except

1. When the cargo hatch is being opened or closed; or

2. When goods are being loaded on the particular deck and

the general unloading or loading of the hold prevents the
cargo hatch from being closed.

D. The fencing and its fittings shall be provided by the vessel’s

owner and should form a permanent part of the vessel’s equipment.

E. No forklift truck or other vehicle shall be allowed on top of hatch

covers unless the hatch covers are provided with suitable overlay to make
them strong enough to carry such load.

F. The maximum concentrated load (in tons) that may be applied to

a hatch cover shall be conspicuously marked on or near the hatch cover. A
safety factor in computing the maximum concentrated load shall be
considered annually.

Section 7. Hatch Beams and Hatch Covers –

A. Hatch covers and hatch beams, together with the hatch beam
locking devices, shall be of good construction and maintained in a good
condition.

B. Broken, cracked, poorly fitted or defective covers and beams

shall not be used but must be immediately repaired or replaced.

C. Wooden covers shall be bound with steel hands or straps which

shall be kept firmly secured in placed particularly at their ends.

D. Where a hatch cover is required to be lifted by hand, it shall be

fitted with suitable hand grips of sufficient size to enable a hand to obtain a
proper grasp, and for the hand to be immediately released and withdrawn in
the event of the cover’s accidental falling.

E. Hand grips shall be inspected before use. Missing or defective

hand grips shall be immediately repaired or replaced by the Captain/Officer in
charge of the vessel.

F. Every hatch beam or pontoon shall be fitted with an effective

locking device such that when it is locked in position it cannot be accidentally
displaced.
 47

G. In the case of a beam, the attachments to which slings are

secured shall be so positioned that the person shall not stop on the beam.

H. It shall be the duty of the Captain/Officer in Charge of the vessel

to reinstall the fence of the hatch opening upon cessation of work (i.e. period
other than a temporary break such a meal break).

I. Hatch covers and beams should be plainly marked to indicate

the hatch deck and section to which they belong.

Section 8. Hatch Covers Powered Mechanically, Hydraulically

and Electrically –

A. Hatch covers powered mechanically, hydraulically and

electrically shall be opened and closed only by authorized persons.

B. No person shall be permitted on any hatch cover when it is

about to be opened or closed.

C. Folding hatch covers should be fitted with locking devices,

wheel’s stopper or other suitable means to prevent the covers from
spontaneously folding back when they are released from the ceaming seals.

D. Dockworkers shall be warned by the duly authorized person

through audible warning devices when hatch covers are about to be opened
and closed.

Section 9. Handling of Hatch Covers and Beams –

A. Dockworkers removing and replacing hatch boards by hand

should:

1. Start from the center towards the sides when removing

covers and from the sides towards the center when
replacing covers; and

2. Use suitable long-handed hooks so as to avoid stooping

when grasping the boards.

B. Dockworkers pulling tarpaulin should, where possible, walk

forward, not backwards, when working on hatch covers.

C. Hatch boards, pontoons, and beans shall not be removed or

replaced while work is going on in the hold under the hatchway.

D. Hatch covers shall not be used in the construction of cargo

stages or for any other purposes that might expose them to damage.
 48

E. Hatch covers which have been removed shall be so laid down,

stacked or secured that they cannot fall into the hold or otherwise cause
danger.

F. Hatch covers shall be so arranged in orderly piles not higher

than the coaming.

G. Beams shall after be laid on their sides or be stood on the edge

close together; they should be lashed or wedged if necessary

H. If beams are convex underneath, they shall be wedged at each

end.

I. Hatch covers shall be so placed as to leave a safe walkway from

rail to hatch coaming or fore-and-aft.

Section 10. Cargo Gangplanks –

A. Cargo gangplanks shall be made of sound material,

substantially and firmly constructed, adequately supported, if necessary
securely fastened, and maintained in good condition.

B. Cargo gangplank shall not be overloaded.

C. Cargo gangplanks shall not be more than 30 degrees in slope.

Section 11. Portable Lighting –

A. It shall be prohibited for any one to enter unlighted or

inadequately lighted plates on the vessel without safe enclosed portable
lights.

B. Portable lightings shall be made readily available.

C. The use of open flames in holds shall be prohibited.

D. Portable lights shall be equipped with adequate guards to

prevent flammable and other combustible materials from coming contact with
them.

E. Lighting for use in holds where there is an explosion risk shall be

of a suitable explosion proof type.

Section 12. Work in Holds –

A. The stowing, handling and stacking or unstacking of goods shall

be done under competent supervision.
 49

B. If there is a risk that dockworkers may fall from height of more

than two (2) meters, suitable measures shall be taken by installing fences,
guard rails or nets.

C. Only sufficient number of gangs shall be put into work in a hold.

D. Where two or more gangs are working in the same hatch with
two or more loading facilities, there shall be a separate signal man for each
gang and/or working gang.

E. When the cargo is snowed in the vessel’s hold, there shall be

unobstructed vision and a safe passage for the signalman on the deck.

F. No loose gear or other object shall be thrown into or out of

holds.

Section 13. Deck Cargo Handling –

A. All upper decks to which dockworkers may have access for the
purpose of carrying on dockwork shall be provided on the cargo with a
bulwark or guard rails, so designed, constructed and of such a height above
the deck, as to prevent any worker from accidentally falling overboard.

B. The bulwark or guard rails shall be continuous except where the

sections have to be removed, such sections shall not extend beyond the
minimum distance necessary.

C. Removable sections be securely fastened when on position.

D. When a deck cargo is carried, adequate arrangement shall be

made to ensure that the signalman is seen by the winchman.

ARTICLE XIX. EQUIPMENT/MACHINERIES AND OTHER LIFTING

APPLIANCES

Section 1. Preventive Maintenance and Repairs –

A. No equipment/machineries and other lifting appliances shall be

placed in service until they have been inspected and tasted by the competent
mechanic or maintenance personnel of the owner and certified to be in safe
operating condition. Records of test and inspection shall be maintained and
shall be available upon request of the Authority.

B. All port users shall have a preventive maintenance program for

their equipment/machineries and/or other lifting appliances.

C. All equipment/machineries and other lifting appliances found to

be in unsafe operating conditions and shall be removes from service. They
 50

shall be repaired or replaced, and reinspected by the owner’s mechanic or

maintenance personnel before being placed in service again.

D. Emergency and minor mechanical repair may be allowed in the

pier or in areas where dockwork is carried out provided that all safety
precautions are observed; provided further that the conduct of such repairs
shall not obstruct port operations and shall be covered by a valid permit
issued by the Authority and other government agencies concerned.

E. Only duly qualified and authorized personnel shall be allowed or

permitted to undertake maintenance work.

F. Shore-based lifting appliance shall be retested at such times as

prescribed by the competent authority.

G. Every lifting appliance shall be periodically and thoroughly

examined and certified by a competent person. Such examination shall take
place at least once (1) in every twelve (12) months.

Section 2. Safe Operations –

A. Only duly authorized persons shall be allowed within

machineries and other lifting appliances that are in operation.

B. All equipment/machineries and other lifting appliances shall be

operated only by authorized trained drivers/operators who have been
accredited by the Authority.

C. All equipment/machineries and other lifting appliances used in

the Port District shall not be operated in a manner that will endanger persons
or properly; neither shall the safe operating speed nor load be exceeded.

D. Only those Contractors/Operators with valid permit from the

Authority shall be allowed to operate inside the port zone.

E. No equipment/machineries and other lifting appliances shall be

brought inside the port by the Arrastre/Stevedoring Contractors and the
Shipping Companies without prior consent/permission from the Authority.

F. All cargo trucks are required to secure safety inspection stickers

from the Authority as evidenced by trucks’ road worthiness.

G. All truckers/haulers operating inside the port shall initiate the

conduct of safety training particularly on the safe transport or containerized or
conventional cargoes to be conducted by the Authority.

Section 3. Machine Guarding –

A. All dangerous and exposed moving parts of

equipment/machineries or appliances shall be adequately guarded.
 51

Section 4. Cargo Trucks and Other Vehicles –

1. No defective cargo trucks and other vehicles shall be permitted

to operate in the Port Districts.

2. When refueling -

a. The engine shall be stopped and smoking shall be strictly

prohibited;

b. Care shall be taken to prevent spillage or overfilling of the

trucks tank;

c. Care shall be taken to prevent ignition of spilled fuel; and

d. It shall be done at suitable refilling station of motorpool.

Section 5. Mobile Cranes –

A. Outriggers -

Outriggers of mobile crane shall be sufficiently extended and locked in

position, the lock shall be extended sufficiently to take the load fully off the
wheels, and shall rest upon adequate and suitable packing.

B. Ballast –

1. Measures shall be taken to ensure that the crane has

been properly ballasted before use.

C. Safe Operation –

1. The crane shall be so positioned that its hoisting ropes

are vertical.

2. The load shall be held by a sufficient number of guide

ropes to damp down any tendency for the load to swing.

3. When it is necessary to lower the load on the ground and

if the surface is hard, appropriate damage shall be made
available to avoid damage.

4. a) All motions shall be carried out smoothly and at a

low speed;

b) If slewing cannot be avoided, particular attention

shall be paid to preventing one care from exerting
a side force on the jib of the other.
 52

5. If the load has a large surface/weight ratio, the operations

shall not be carried out in a high or during gusty winds.

D. Side Loading –

1. No jib or boom of a mobile crane shall be deliberately

side loaded.

E. Use Aboard Vessels –

1. Mobile crane use on board barges or vessels shall be

properly secured to the vessel.

2. If a mobile crane on board vessel is not permanently

attached to the vessel, its outriggers shall be used
whenever the crane is being operated.

3. When a mobile crane is to be used aboard a barge or

vessel, the crane manufacturer, or if his services are not
available, the agency testing, examining, and certifying
the crane, or a qualified engineer acceptable to the
Authority, shall be consulted for any change of trim of the
barge or vessel.

F. Limit Switches –

1. Every shore crane, and where practicable every

shipboard crane or derrick crane, should be provided with
properly designed limit switches to limit, as may be
appropriate.

a) The raising and lowering motion of the hoist rope;

b) The derricking-in and derricking-out of the jib; and

c) The movement of a crane along its tracks.

2. A crane operator shall not use any limit switch as

abnormal means of stopping the particular motion
controlled by that switch.

Section 6. Automatic Overload Cut-Outs –

A. Every lifting appliance other than a ship’s derrick or derrick

crane should when practicable, be filled with a device that automatically cut
off the power supply if the load being rained or lowered exceeds the safe
working load of the lifting appliance. In addition, a horn should be instilled to
warn the people in the area of the suspended load.
 53

B. In no circumstances shall the operator of the appliance be

permitted to use the overload cut-out as a normal means of determining the
load that can be lifted or lowered.

Section 7. Indicator of Safe Working Load –

A. Every lifting appliance shall be properly marked of its loading

capacity.

B. If a crane has a derricking jib of fixed length, or a horizontal jib

upon which a trolley or crab moves so the crane shall be fitted with a radius
load indicator clearly visible to the driver.

C. Crane Level Devices -

1. Every mobile crane shall be fitted with a device to

indicate to the driver whether that crane is level or not.

2. In the cause of a ship’s crane designed to operate under

certain conditions of list or trim, it shall be fitted with a
device to indicate to the driver the limits of operation.

Section 8. Operator’s Cabin –

A. General Provision -

1. When it is necessary for the driver to leave fork-lift trucks

or tractors unattended, the engine shall be stopped, the
hand brakes applied, the operating control locked, the
fork-lifted forward flush with the floor and clear of
passageway and, if the vehicle is on a dangerous incline,
the wheels blocked.

The truck shall be protected with an overhead guard of

sufficient strength to protect the driver against the impact
of falling objects.

B. Devices shall be fitted to limit automatically the extent of upward

movement of the forks, and also of downward movement unless the lowering
action is nonpowered.

C. Forks

1. The forks of a truck shall be separately tested annually by

a competent person in accordance with a national or
international standards. Record of the test shall be
maintained with equipment file.

2. Any trapping points between the fork arm mechanism and

any fixed parts of the truck shall be suitably guarded.
 54

D. Any forklift truck and any battery container in the case of electric
trucks, that are intended to be hoisted aboard ship shall have suitable slinging
points.

E. Where practicable, the standard fire pressure shall be

conspicuously marked on the chassis next to the respective wheels.

F. The stability of every prototype or modified truck shall be tested

by a competent person in accordance with the national or international
standards before it is put into use.

G. Safe Operation of Trucks -

1. Before trucks are operated, driver/operator shall ensure

that such trucks are in good operating conditions. Any
defect shall be reported to the supervisor for appropriate
action.

2. Tire pressure shall be checked daily.

3. A truck shall, not be used to handle a load greater than

the capacity marked upon it.

4. Only authorized drivers shall be allowed to operate

forklifts.

5. The forks shall be adjusted to correct their width, locked

with appropriate locking device and shall be placed fully
under the load, which shall be equally distributed.

6. No load shall be carried or raised with the mast tilting

forward.

7. When traveling, the fork arm shall not be raised more

than fifteen (15) centimeters above the ground. When
the load obscures the driver’s forward vision, the truck
shall be driven in reverse.

8. When the truck is being driven on an inclined surface, the

load shall always face up the slope. Then a truck is
being driven without any load, the forks shall face down
the slope.

9. When driving a truck, special care shall be taken:

a) If the ground is slippery;

b) In avoiding any loose dunnage or waste;
c) In rounding a corner where vision is restricted;
 55

d) When passing by or through doorways used by

personnel;
e) In any place where the overhead clearance is
limited;
f) Near any open hatch; and
g) On bridges over trenches or other gaps.

10. When a truck is traveling on the platform of a ship,

special care shall be taken to ensure that –

a) No part of it or the load projects beyond the edge

of the platform; and

b) The driver stays at the control of the truck.

11. No person shall be allowed to stand or pass under the

elevated forks.

12. Forks shall be fully lowered when the truck is parked.

13. Handling containers by the simultaneous use of two

forklifts shall be prohibited.

14. No vehicle shall be towed or pushed by a forklift trucks

unless it has proper attachments fitted for the purpose.

15. The forklift shall not pick-up, put down or carry a load on
a slope that turns across the fore-and-aft center line of
the truck.

16. The loads shall be safely secured and pallets shall not be
overloaded.

H. Stacking of Goods -

a) When the truck is stacking goods, the stack should be

approached slowly with the mast still tilted backwards.

b) When the truck is sufficiently close to and facing the

stack, the forks should be raised until they are slightly
above the stacking level.

c) When load is over the stack, the mast should be tilted

forward and the load deposited.

d) Once the load is properly stacked, the fork should be

withdrawn from under the load with the mast tilting
forward if necessary by backing the truck away from the
stack; and
 56

e) The forks shall then revert to the traveling position.

I. Unstacking of Goods -

a) The trucks shall approach the stack, and stops with the
forks approximately thirty (30) centimeters from the
stack’s face.

b) The driver shall check that the forks are of the correct
width and the load is within the capacity of the truck.

c) With forks raised to the correct height and the mast tilted
forward, the truck shall be moved forward until the forks
are completely under the load, and the brakes of the truck
shall then be applied.

d) The forks shall be raised until the load is just clear of the
stack with the mast tilted slightly backwards. Great care
shall be taken that the other load on the stacks is not
affected during this operation.

e) The driver shall ensure that the way is clear, and shall
move the truck back sufficiently far from the stack to clear
the road.

f) The load shall then be lowered to the traveling position.

The mast shall be tilted fully backwards and the truck
shall then move off steadily.

Section 9. General Precautions –

1. The safe working load and weight of the forklift shall be properly
and conspicuously marked.

2. No counterweight shall be added to increase the lifting capacity

in case of forklifts and cranes.

3. The forklift shall be driven cautiously and shall sound its audible
warning device when –

a) pedestrian are in vicinity; and

b) passing any concealed entrances, blind corners, parked

vehicles or large obstacles such as temporary stowed
crates.

4. When forklift is towing other trucks –

 57

a) Corner cutting or taking a corner too sharply shall be

avoided;

b) When reversing, the assistance of a signalman shall be

sought;

c) Reversing shall not be allowed if there is more than one

trailer; and

d) The forklift shall be driven slowly and cautiously.

5. All forklifts and tractors shall be provided with head, signal and
taillights.

6. The seats of forklifts and tractors shall be properly cushioned to

prevent excessive jolting of the drivers.

7. Forklifts and tractors shall be provided with substantial guards to

ensure the safety of the operators in case of accidents.

Section 10. Ship’s Derricks –

A. Every ship shall carry adequate rigging plans showing at least -

1. the correct position of guys;

2. the resultant force on block and guys;
3. the position of blocks;
4. their identification markings; and
5. arrangements for union purchase.

B. No derrick shall be rigged and adjusted for angle other than by

its own power-operated topping winch. It shall be prohibited to use a short
length of chain shackled to the deck and hitched to the span rope, which is
help by hand at the other end as a temporary stopper.

C. Rigging -

1. When a derrick is being rigged –

a) A competent person shall always be stationed at each

span which and/or cargo winch in use;

b) Only persons engaged in the actual rigging work shall be

allowed in the vicinity of the derrick; provided that the
person in charge of the rigging has announced that it is
safe for them to do so;
 58

c) The wire rope shall be checked to ensure that it is free

from corrosion, kinks, needling or any other patent
defects;

d) Shackles securing all blocks shall be fitted in the correct

way, and have their pins properly tightened;

e) Block sheaves shall be checked to ensure that they are

free to turn and are properly lubricated.

f) Guys, including prevented guys where appropriate,

should be properly attached to the derrick head and
particularly to the correct deck eye plates;

g) The goose neck shall be checked to ascertain that it is

free to swivel; and

h) In the case of a heavy lift derrick, a check shall be made

to ascertain that any temporary mast or samson post stay
are properly fitted and that any special slewing guys
which are

i) directly attached to the lower cargo block are properly

rigged.

2. When a ship is carrying deck cargo stowed in such a manner

that the deck eye plates are in accessible.

a) The guys shall be secured to wire role or chain pendants

designed specially for the purpose and of sufficient length
to enable the guys to be coupled to the pendants at the
top level of the deck cargo; and

b) Extreme care shall be taken to ensure that the relative

positions of the guys as shown on the rigging plans are
not disturbed.

3. A derrick shall not be rigged at an angle lower that the angle

marked on it.

D. Use in Union Purchase -

1. When a derrick is to be used in union purchase –

a) the preventer and the main guy shall be attached

separately to deck eye plates;

b) the preventer and the main guy shall be adjusted

when the derrick boom in under a slight dynamic
loading such as lifting a heavy hatch beam; and
 59

c) the tension of the main working guy shall be more

than that of the preventer.

2. Where the means of adjusting the length of a guy consists

of –

a) a claw device used in adjusting the length of the

guy shall be of suitable design and of adequate
strength and that it will not accidentally release in
the event of temporary partial slackness in the guy;
and

b) a fiber block and a tackle, a fiber rope shall be

used.

3. When derricks are in use in union purchase –

a) the angle between the two cargo full shall not

exceed 120o at any time;

b) the load shall be raised just enough to prevent

from hitting hatch coaming bulwark or railings; and

c) sling on loads should be of minimum length to

meet the height requirements.

4. The hoist rope of the two derricks shall be secured to a

common ring (also carrying the cargo hook), by means of
suitable swivels.

5. The hook should be fitted as close to the junction of the

“fall” as possible.

ARTICLE XX. LOOSE GEAR

Section 1. General Provisions –

Every item of loose gear shall –

a) be of good design and construction, of adequate strength for the

purpose for which it is used, and free from defect;

b) be made in accordance with a recognized national or

international standards;
 60

c) before being put to use for the first time or after any receipt or
alteration to a stress-bearing part, be tested by a competent
person of the owner/port user concerned; and

d) be properly maintained.

Section 2. Testing –

1. Loose gear, other than wire rope, fiber rope or webbed sling
material, shall be tested by the competent authority/authorized
agency using a test load of 25 percent greater than the safe
working load (SWL) of such gear.

Section 3. Repairs –

1. Only a competent repairman shall undertake repairs of any

loose gear.

Section 4. Use of Loose Gear –

A. General Provisions -

No loose gear shall be subjected to a load greater than the safe

working load marked.

B. Storage -

1. When not in use, loose gear such as chains, wire rope

and fiber rope shall be stored in clean and well ventilated
places where it is free from excessive heat and protected
against corrosion.

2. Loose gear in storage shall be raised from the ground,

and not in contact with damaging agents such as ashes,
clinker and other corrosive substances.

3. Storage arrangements for loose gear shall not be such as

to expose workers to risks.

4. Gear for repair shall be stored separately. Gear taken

out of service and beyond repair shall be scrapped.

C. Withdrawal from Service -

Loose gear shall be withdrawn from service –

1. If it has been overloaded or had been subject to faulty

heat treatment;
 61

2. If any part of it is worn out;

3. If it is distorted, stretched or has any serious defects or

any sign of cracks, particularly in the welded portion or at
corners or changes of section;

4. In case the wire rope has any protruding wire or any

broken wire in a splice; and

5. In the case of fiber rope or webbed slings, that has been

in contact with any acid, alkali or other chemical
substances, or has been over stretched or had any of its
splice out, frayed or loosened.

D. Precaution During Use -

1. Loose gear shall not be dropped from a height or

subjected to snatch or shock loads.

2. A sling shall not be –

a) used in crossed, twisted, kinked or knitted

b) used to roll a load;
c) dragged from beneath the load by lifting appliance;
and
d) subjected to excessive hear or allowed to come
into contact with any acid, alkali, or other harmful
substances.

3. A shackle shall not be used on a sling unless it is fitted

with a proper shackle pin. An ordinary bolt or piece of
steel bar shall not be used.

4. The links of a chain shall not be joined together by a knot

and bolt, by wiring, or by passing the link through another
and inserting a bolt or nail to it in place.

5. A chain, fiber rope or webbed sling not be allowed to

come into contact with any sharp or jagged edged of the
load but shall be protected by means of wood or other
suitable packing.

6. Steps shall be taken to ensure that the hook or other

lifting device does not catch or hit any fixed object.

7. No hook or other lifting device shall be attached to any

wire strap, band or other fastening of a load during lifting
operation.
 62

8. Bales or crates may be lifted/using hooks of lifting

devices provided that –

a) they are specifically designed for the purpose;

b) the wire, strap, band or other fastening device has

been properly secured to the load; and

c) at least two hooks or lifting devices are used, each

secured to a separate wire, strap, band or other
fastening.

9. No hook shall be attached to the rim of a drum or barrel.

10. When lifting a heavy or bulky load, slings used for

different cargoes shall not be crowded to the hook. But if
a large number of slings cannot be avoided, one or more
shackles shall be used to connect the slings to the hook.

11. When it is necessary to handle irregularly shaped loads

such as a machine tool very long loads where the center
of gravity may be some distance from the vertical
geometric center line, a number of trial lifts shall be made
by partially lifting the load and adjusting the sling
positions.

12. Where it is necessary to shorten one or two of sling in

order to achieve equal balance, a proper device such as
a chain claw shall be used. In no circumstance shall the
shortening be done by knotting the slings.

13. When tubes, girders, supporting metal sheets or similar

long loads are lifted, the safest and most appropriate
means shall be employed.

14. Where needed, the load shall be fitted with lanyard or

guys so that twist or swing of the load may be controlled
by persons stationed on the guys.

15. If a load is of sufficient length to warrant the use of a

spreader beam or lifting frame the weight shall not
exceed the safe working load of the slings.

16. The end of the sling shall be passed around the load at
least twice before the sling hook is attached to the
standing part of the sling in order to reduce a minimum
the tendency of the slings to slide inward on each other
when they are under tension.
 63

17. Plate clamps shall be adequate in size and strength on

the clamp face and/or looking cam shall be of good
condition.

18. Where a place clamp is used to raise or lower a metal

plate by gripping one edge of it, a chain of short length
shall be attached between the plate clamp and the hook
of the lifting appliance.

19. Small loose goods such as small drums, canisters,

boxes, carbouys shall be loaded on suitable pallets or
trays hoisted by four-legged slings. If necessary, special
precautions such as fitting a net around the slings should
be taken.

20. Brackets, tube and similar appliances shall –

a) be so loaded that there is no risk of any of the

goods falling out;

b) be secured to the hook by a shackle, unless fitted

with a handle specially that shall fit the hook of a
lifting appliance;

c) have a handle with a special band at its center or

be so shaped that the hook of the shackle will lift
the bucket or tub only at the center of the handle.

21. When a set of goods such as loaded bags, sacks or rolls

of paper is to be hoisted, a fiber rope sling spliced
together at both ends shall be provided.

22. When three papers reels of large diameter are hoisted at

the same time by means of a sling, the reels shall be
placed in a triangular fashion.

23. The bags or reels shall be arranged in such a way that

their ends are all approximately in the same vertical
place.

24. When the hook of multi-legged sling is attached to an

eye-fitting on a pallet, tray or load, it shall be inserted into
the eye from the inside of the load.

25. When logs are handled –

And when tongs or scissors clamps are used

a) the logs shall be at least one (1) meter shorter

than the length of the hatch;
 64

b) the shall be placed as near as practicable to a

point immediately above the center of gravity of
the leg. Trial lifts shall be made for this purpose;

c) the tong shall bite into the wood beneath the bark;
and

d) the person, after placing the tongs, shall stand in a

safe distance when the trial lift is made.

26. When reel or cable or coils of metal are to be lifted, the

slings shall be attached to steel bar of adequate strength
and length accidents and disturbance during loading and
unloading operations.

Section 5. Lifting and Lowering Loads –

A. All lifting appliances shall be properly tested to its operations

ability immediately before lifting loads.

B. Trial lifts shall be conducted before lifting loads of questionable

weight by the cargo winch operator.

C. A lifting appliance or loose gear shall be used only for the

purpose for which it is suitable.

D. A lifting appliance or loose gear shall not be loaded beyond the

working load.

E. Load shall be raised or lowered smoothly avoiding sudden jerks.

F. Loads being raised or lowered shall not remain suspended over

persons engaged in loading or unloading operations; and no persons shall
pass or stand under a suspended load.

G. No person shall use a hold ladder in a square of a hatch when

loads being raised or lowered in the hold.

H. Operators shall not leave winches or cranes unattended with a

load suspended or with a power on.

Section 6. Grabs –

A. When bulks goods are moved with grabs -

1. there shall be ample room for workers at loading and

unloading points to avoid the swinging grabs.

2. grabs shall be secured against inadvertent opening.

 65

3. grabs shall be with guide sling to avoid unnecessary

swinging

Section 7. Wire Rope –

A. Unwinding/Uncoiling/usage

1. Great care shall be taken when a wire rope is uncoiled

from a reel.

2. The length of a rope required for the particular use shall

be taken from the reel or coil either by mounting the reel
or coil on a turntable or by rolling the reel along the dock
surface or deck after the latter has been suitably cleaned
and cleared as necessary.

3. The rope shall not be allowed to kink or twist about its

axis.

4. The rope shall not be taken from the center of the coil or
be allowed to spring off in turns.

5. Except for eye splices in the ends of wires for endless

rope slings, each wire rope used in hoisting or lowering,
or pulling cargo, shall consist of one continuous piece
without knot or splice.

B. A thimble or loop splice shall have at least three tucks with a

whole strand or rope, followed by two tucks with half in wires cut out of each
strand.

C. A wedge socket used as a terminal fitting of a lifting appliance

shall be suitable for the size of rope and be properly fitted.

D. Bolted clamps (such as crosby, plate or bulldog clamps) shall

not be used to form a terminal joint in shy hoist rope, derricking rope or guy of
a vessel’s derrick or crane in forming a sling.

E. The wire rope of a lifting appliance, other than that of a vessel’s

derrick shall be regularly maintained and greased.

F. The wire rope of a lifting appliance shall be inspected and

examined thoroughly by the owner/contractor concerned before using.

G. A wire rope shall be immediately replaced/removed

1. if it shows sign of corrosion, particularly internal

corrosion;
 66

2. if there is any tendency towards birdcaging (i.e.

separation of the strands or wires);

3. if it shows signs of excessive wear indicated by flats

appearing on the individual wires;

4. if the number of broken wires or needles in any length of

ten (10) diameter exceeds five (5%) of the total number of
wires in the rope; and

5. if broken wires appear even in one strand only, or appear

in the trucks of the splice.

H. Splice in a wire rope fitted to a fitted lifting appliance shall be-

protected only at its tall in order to ensure that no deterioration of the splice
(i.e. broken wires) will remain unseen.

Section 8. Blocks for Wire Rope –

A. When a block is inspected, it should be ascertained that -

1. No sheave is cracked at the rim, and no part of the rim is

missing;

2. The sheave or sheaves turn to freely and smoothly;

3. The head fitting swivel is secularly fastened and free from

visible defects; and the shank is not distorted and turns
freely by hands;

4. Clearance between the sheaves and partition or side

plates is not excessive;

5. The side straps are in good order and, in particular, free

from any crack;

6. The greasing application is satisfactory; and

7. The plate required is intact and the information thereon is

legible.

B. Pulley block shall be stripped down when being examined.

C. The head swivel fitting and axle pin shall be checked to

ascertain that they are free from any hairline crack, particularly at the
termination of the thread and any at any change or section.

D. If sheaves are fitted with a bush bearing, it shall be ascertained

the bush is not worn out and is secured against turning relative to the sheave
boss.
 67

E. If any sheave is fitted with roller bearing or ball bearing, it shall

be ascertained that they are still tight in the sheave boss. Only the axle pin
needs to be withdrawn for the examination if it has been ascertained that the
bearings are not tight. If it comes free from the bearing too readily, the pin
should be changed.

F. Straps and any welded parts shall be checked for any hairline
crack.

G. Lubrication holes shall be checked to ascertain that they are

clear.

H. A block shall be subjected to any form of heat treatment; not be

dropped from a height; be regularly lubricated; do not have its plate or any
grease nippled painted over; and be kept in the vessel’s cargo store when not
in use.

Section 9. Fiber Rope –

A. Fiber rope for use on lifting appliances or slings shall be of good

grade manila rope (abaca) or other fiber or at least equal quality.

B. A thimble or loop splice in a rope shall have not less than three
(3) full tucks, each tucks with all they yarns in the strands.

C. When a rope is not in use, it shall be a stored in a suitable place,

hang upon wooden pegs or galvanized hooks in a ventilated position away
from any source of heat.

D. A rope that has become wet shall be dried naturally.

E. A rope that has been or is suspected of having been in contact

with any acid, alkali or any other substances known to be detrimental to fiber
rope shall be taken out of service.

Section 10. Blocks for Fiber Rope –

A. The safe working load of the block shall be accessed on the

basis of use with the best-grade manila rope.

B. The block shall comply with the following requirements:

1. Every lifting appliance and other cargo handling

appliance before being put into use for the first time, or
after any substantial alteration or repair periodically
thereafter, be thoroughly examined and certified by a
competent person.
 68

2. End and partition plates shall have a clearance of not less

than two (2) mm between them and the sheave.

3. The axle shall be fitted in such a way as to prevent the

pin from turning.

4. The assembly of the axle pin and swivel head fitting shall
be of such design as to permit the block to be completely
dismantled when necessary for thorough examination.

C. The block shall be marked with -

1. the size of manila rope which it has been designed;

2. its own safe working load; and

3. identification marks to relate it to its certificate of test and

examination and where appropriate to the rigging plan.

ARTICLE XXI. MOVEMENT OF VEHICLES ON BOARD VESSEL

Section 1. Loading and Unloading Ramps –

A. 1. The slope of a ramp shall not exceed ten degrees (10o).

2. Where loading or unloading operation takes place in tidal

waters, a suitable span link of floating bridge shall be
installed to ensure that the ramp slope will not exceed the
said angle.

B. In case the ramp is capable of carrying only one (1) vehicle at a

time, priority of movement on the ramp shall be given to a loaded vehicle.

C. If a ramp is capable of deadling with simultaneous two way

traffic of there are two separate ramps in use, the direction of traffic shall be
clearly marked by arrows of sufficient size which shall be clearly seen when
loading or unloading takes place.

D. The ramp shall be protected to prevent a vehicle or a person

from falling from its sides.

E. A ship’s ramp shall fit into an area so protected.

Section 2. Tractors –

Tractors used for towing trailers shall be suitable for the trailers and
have ample breaking powers to control loaded trailers when using the loading
ramp.
 69

ARTICLE XXII. SIGNALMAN

Section 1. General Provisions –

When a large vehicle or trailers with heavy load is being maneuvered,

the driver shall be under the direction of a signalman and –

1. The driver shall not move the load unless the signalman so
directs;

2. If at any time the signalman is not within the field of vision of the
driver, the driver shall immediately stop the vehicle;

3. The signalman shall satisfy himself that no person is in a

position of danger.

ARTICLE XXIII. BERTHING AND SHIFTING VESSELS

Section 1. General Provisions –

A. Beams shall be properly secured before shifting or berthing of

vessels.

B. While vessels are being berthed or shitted, no work shall be

done by dockworkers on board.

C. When ships are being moored, workers shall keep clear of the
mooring ropes and, in particular, shall not stand in the bights of ropes being
hauled by capstans.

D. Dockworkers shall embark/disembark only after the vessel has

been secured.
ARTICLE XXIV. AUDIBLE WARNING DEVICES

A. Handling equipment such as straddle carrier, silent hoist cranes,

etc. shall be fitted at ground level with an audible alarm that sounds when the
equipment begins to move and that is sufficiently loud to be heard by anyone
working in the vicinity.

B. The handling equipment shall be, fitted with a horn or similar

warning device that can be operated by the driver to warn or attract the
attention to any person within the operational area of the equipment.

ARTICLE XXV. FLOOR LOAD LIMITS

Section1. General Provisions –

 70

All cargo handling operators/port users shall strictly observe the

allowable load limits of piers/wharves/landing/slip areas.

ARTICLE XXVI. PROHIBITION OF SMOKING AND OPEN FLAME

Section 1. Prohibited Acts –

A. Smoking shall be prohibited in all places within the port zone

where “No Smoking” signs are posted.

B. No person shall carry or ignite any naked flame in any part of

the port zone except in areas designated by the Authority.

ARTICLE XXVII. WELDING AND CUTTING

Section 1. Clearance/Permit –

A. Philippine Coast Guard clearance issued by the PCG

Commandant or his duly authorized representative shall be secured by the
shipping lines/company or agent prior to the application with the Authority for
permit to undertake shipboard repairs within the port or harbor.

B. All emergency minor hotworks, repairs conducted at

piers/wharves or within the port zone shall obtain the clearance of the
Authority.

Section 2. Safety Requirements –

A. Welding or cutting operations shall not be permitted in rooms or

areas containing combustible materials in proximity of explosives or
inflammable liquids, dusts, gases, or vapors, until all fire and explosions
hazards shall have been eliminated.

B. Welding and cutting operations that are carried out or dine in

places where persons other than the welders work or pass shall be enclosed
by means of a suitable, stationary or portable screens.

C. Welding or cutting operations on tankers/barges filled with

explosives or flammable substances shall be prohibited. Such operations
shall only be done when cleared and found completely free from combustible
vapors or gases.

D. All workers or persons directly and indirectly enbaged in welding

or cutting operations shall be provided with the following personal protective
equipment.
 71

1. goggles, helmets or head shields filter lenses;

2. suitable free resistant gauntlet; and

3. adequate first aid/fire protective equipment.

ARTICLE XXVIII. TRAFFIC

Section 1. General Precaution –

Drivers of vehicles within the Authority’s premises shall keep a

constant look out for pedestrians. All types of mobile handling and
mechanical equipment shall take all necessary precautions to avoid collisions
or accidents.

Section 2. Maximum Speed Limit –

All vehicles shall be driven with due care within the Authority’s
premises and shall observe the maximum speed limit of twenty (20) km. per
hour.

Section 3. Compliance with Traffic Regulations –

All persons shall comply with all orders given by proper authorities for
the purpose of regulating traffic and promoting safety.

ARTICLE XXIX. UNSAFE CONDITIONS

Any defect or unsafe condition/practices found in workplaces shall be

reported immediately to the Authority or the port user concerned and
immediate corrective action must be taken.

ARTICLE XXX.
CONSTRUCTION/DEMOLITION/INSTALLATION/RENOVATION

Section 1. General Provisions –

A. Plans for proposed construction, installations and/or

alteration/renovations of buildings/structures shall be submitted to the
Authority for examination and approval.

B. Prior to permitting employees, workers to start renovation or

demolition operations within the port zone, a survey of the structure shall be,
made by the Authority to determine the condition of the framing, floors, walls
and possibility of unplanned collapse of any portion of a structure.
 72

ARTICLE XXXI. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE

If, for any reason, any section or provision of this “Standards” is

declared unconstitutional or invalid, the other sections or provisions which are
not affected thereby shall continue in full force and effect.

ARTICLE XXXII. OTHER LAWS

Any and all other occupational safety and health rules, standards,
orders, memoranda or part hereof, not inconsistent with the provisions of this
“Standards” promulgated by any government agency or competent authority
shall be deemed to be in full force and effect.

ARTICLE XXXIII. PENALTIES

Violation of any of these rules and regulations shall subject the person
involved to the penalties under Section 43 PD 857 (Revised Charter of the
Philippine Ports Authority) promulgated on December 23, 1975, to wit:

a) Any person who violates any of the provisions of Presidential

Decree 857 or any of the rules and regulations issued or
promulgated by the Authority shall be punished by imprisonment
for not less than one 91) day but not more than six (6) years,
and pay a fine of not less than two hundred (200) pesos but not
more than one hundred thousand (100,000.00) pesos. If the
offender is a government official or employee he shall in addition
to imprisonment and fine be perpetually be disqualified to hold
any public office. If the offender is a jurisdical person, the
penalty of imprisonment and fine shall be imposed upon the
manager, director, representative or employee thereof
responsible for the violation. If the offender is an alien, he shall
be deported immediately without further proceedings, after
serving his sentence and paying the fine.

b) Any license, franchise, or authority to exercise any right or

privilege which may have been issued by the Authority in
accordance with Presidential Decree 857 or the rules and
regulations issued or promulgated pursuant thereto, shall be
deemed withdrawn and revoked upon conviction of the holder
thereof.

ARTICLE XXXIV. ADMINISTRATIVE FINES

The Authority shall have the power to exact reasonable administrative

fines in such specific amount and for such specific violations arising out of the
use of the port, as shall be prescribed in the rules and regulations which the
Authority is hereby authorized to issue for the purpose.
 73

ARTICLE XXXV. EFFECTIVITY

This “Standards” shall take effect fifteen days after the completion of its
publication in the Official Gazette.
DONE in Iloilo City this 19th day of April 1985.

(SGD.) MAXIMO S. DUMLAO, JR.

Officer-In-Charge
Philippine Ports Authority

(SGD.) JOSE P. DANS, JR.

Minister of Transportation
and Communications/Chairman
Philippine Ports Authority
Board of Directors

- THE END -
MINISTRY OF LABOR & EMPLOYMENT
MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS
MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT

Whereas, the Ministry of Labor and Employment promulgated the

Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) pursuant to Article 162 of
the Labor Code of the Philippines which provide that the Secretary of Labor’
shall by appropriate orders set and enforce mandatory occupational safety
and health standards to eliminate or reduce occupational safety and health
hazards in all workplace;

Whereas, the PPA promulgated the Dockwork Safety and Health

Standards (DSHS) pursuant to Section 6-a (iii) of the PD 857 otherwise
known as the Revised Charter of the Philippine Ports Authority which states
that one of the corporate duties of the PPA is to prescribe rules and
regulations, procedures, and guidelines governing the establishment,
construction, maintenance, and operation of all ports including private ports in
the country;

Whereas, the DSHS applies in all workplace within the ports including
private ports, while the OSHS applies in all workplaces wherever they may be
located;

Whereas, Section 6 c (e) of Executive Order 513 Reorganizing the

Philippine Ports Authority provides that the Authority (PPA) shall have public
authority within the ports which shall include the enforcement of the rules and
regulations promulgated by the Authority pursuant to law;
 74

Whereas, Section Rule II, Book IV of the Rules Implementing the Labor
Code of the Philippines and Standard 1003.03 of the Occupational Safety and
Health Standards specifically exempt from their coverage, establishments
engaged in land, sea and air transportation except their garages, dry docks,
port hangers and repair shops;

Whereas, establishments and port contractors/operators like the

shipping companies/agents, hauling/trucking firms, arrastre/stevedoring
contractors and those engaged in maritime and ancillary services operating
within the area of jurisdiction of the Authority are covered by the DSHS;

Whereas, the DSHS fills in the inadequacy of safety regulations

promulgated specifically for port operations including the operations on board
vessels;

Whereas, the OSHS and the DSHS complement and supplement each
other as they both profess concern for the protection of life, limb and property
and public welfare;

Whereas, to date, the PPA has already been organized with the
Operations Personnel, Safety Administrators, Port Police and Technical Staff
to enforce and implement the provisions of the DSHS nationwide;
Whereas, for purposes of effecting and economical implementation of
the DSHS and their implementing rules and guidelines, the PPA is the logical
government agency to enforce and implement the said standards;

NO, THEREFORE, WE, the undersigned Ministers do hereby agree to

adopt and promulgate this Memorandum of Agreement containing policies
and guidelines for the compliance of their respective Ministries as follows:

1. The Dockwork Safety and Health Standards (DSHS) shall be

adopted as part of the Occupational Safety and Health
Standards.

2. The PPA shall responsible in the administration and

enforcement of the DSHS in all ports including private ports in
the country.

3. Problems arising from the implementation of this Memorandum

Agreement shall as much as possible be resolved by
coordination between the Director of the Bureau of Labor
Standards of the Ministry of Labor and Employment and the
Chairman of the PPA Central Safety Committee on Ports and
Harbor.

This Agreement shall take effect on June 10, 1981 and the parties
concerned shall circularize the same to all Port Management Units of PPA
and Regional Offices of MOLE for their information, guidance and
implementation.
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Signed this 28th day of February, 1981 at Metro Manila, Philippines.

MINISTRY OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT

(SGD.) BLAS F. OPLE

Minister

PHILIPPINE PORTS AUTHORITY

BY: (SGD.) ALFREDO L. JUINIO

Chairman, Board of Directors, PPA &
Minister of Public Works

Signed in the presence of :

(SGD.) DOMINGO H. ZAPANTA

Officer-In-Charge, Bureau of
Labor Standards

(SGD.) EDUARDO MA. R. SANTOS

Chairman, PPA Central Safety
Committee and Manager, PPA Port
of Manila