BV launches port safety, environment code

France's Bureau Veritas (BV) launched a code of practice and certification scheme for the management of safety and environmental protection in ports. The IPSEM Code (International Code for Safety and Environmental Protection Management in Port) is intended to help managers improve port safety and environmental protection, with additional benefits of improving staff motivation, reducing insurance premiums and improving the image of the port. "This independently audited code and certification scheme is unique, and for the first time, it gives port operators a defined structure within which to manage safety and the environment, and proof that they are doing it correctly," says Alain-Michel Chauvel, responsible for the project in the BV's marine division. "We have combined our experience of shipping and property risk analysis and quality certification to develop a code which brings port operators real benefits." The IPSEM Code sets out a scheme for diagnosing the port or terminal's weaknesses in safety and environment management, and can include consultancy support to rectify those weaknesses. Policy, management processes, infrastructure, equipment, communication and waste disposal are all covered. International standards such as ISO14000, OHSA 18001, APELL and ISO 901 are incorporated into the Code. Port authorities are awarded a five year certificate following audit of the system, with annual inspections to maintain validity.