APM Terminals Spanish Gateways reinforces its commitment to safety on Global Safety Day

Barcelona, Valencia and Gijón terminals celebrate events under the slogan “We start with safety”

Safety in lashing operations, working on top of containers and encouraging everyone working at the terminals to get involved in unexpected situations that could compromise safety were the focus of this year's Global Safety Day at APM Terminals Spanish Gateways. This initiative was held on different days at the terminals in Barcelona, Valencia and Gijón, but under the same slogan: We start with safety, as a reminder of the priorities, rules and procedures that are the starting point for work, to ensure safe operations and anticipate unforeseen events as far as possible.

"Our commitment to safety is unwavering. It is part of our strategic priorities and is present in every decision we make. It is not an add-on, it is at the core of how we operate. Global Safety Day is an ideal opportunity to reflect on what we have achieved, recognise our areas for improvement and renew our commitment to our shared goal: zero accidents. We want everyone to return home safe and sound, every day," said Julián Fernández, Managing Director of APM Terminals Spanish Gateways.

At APM Terminals Barcelona, Global Safety Day was attended by Igor van den Essen, Regional Managing Director Africa & Europe, and Dennis Olesen, Regional Head of Operations. It began with an enthusiastic talk by Manuel Bestraten, a specialist in occupational safety, chemical risk and advanced prevention management systems, who also spoke to colleagues in Valencia and Gijón. In addition, the team was highly involved in activities where they analysed unforeseen variables and how to rely on the team to ensure that safety always comes first. They also visited different parts of the terminal to observe how the work is actually done, identify strengths and vulnerabilities, and listen directly to those who work on the front line. The day also had a fun side, with a competition to test knowledge of prevention, which was won by Mariona Palop, Fran Rubio and Nicolay Zdravkov, and a mural where people stuck personal photos of the things that made them work safely so they could enjoy them after work.