The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) Dockers Safety Conference brought together a diverse group of over 70 participants from across Europe, including union officials, dock workers, and employers’ representatives from the port and shipping sectors. For the first time, these key players united to engage in meaningful dialogue about safety challenges and solutions, laying the groundwork for a safer and more collaborative future.
The conference emphasised that safety is a shared responsibility and a vital investment rather than a cost. It provided a unique platform for those actively addressing safety issues within their organisations to exchange views and experiences. Employers, workers, and union leaders engaged in discussions on critical topics such as ensuring safety aboard ships, enforcing the non-seafarers’ work clause, and creating safer working conditions for lashers.
“We aim to foster direct dialogue between all stakeholders,” said Bera Tommasi, Policy Officer for Dockworkers. “By working together, we can tackle current and future challenges head-on and make tangible improvements in safety standards.”
Workshops led to actionable proposals, including introducing standardised checklists for lashing gangs and a centralised database for safety inspection reports. The event also marked the first step toward establishing a European safety network to share best practices and innovative solutions for port workers.
More than a conference, it was a call to action. Every worker deserves to return home safely, and by uniting workers, unions, and employers, we’re building a future where safety is non-negotiable.
The ETF reaffirmed its commitment to continuing this dialogue and driving change across Europe’s ports and shipping sectors, clearly focusing on saving lives and improving working conditions for all.