News

What counts as innovation in safety?

You don't have to invent the future to make the present safer. One of the easiest ways to talk yourself out of entering an innovation award is to decide that what you have done isn't really innovative. Perhaps it was too practical. Perhaps it was too simple. Perhaps it was something your organisation developed internally rather than a major technological breakthrough. But safety innovation can take many forms. The 2026 TT Club Innovation in Safety Award recognises innovations across four areas: Turning Data into Insight Using data or information in a new or better way to understand risk and support safer decisions. Learning and Engaging Finding more effective ways to train, educate, communicate with or engage people about safety. New Ways to Make Operations Physically Safer Changing the physical operation or environment to remove or reduce exposure to risk. Safety of People/Equipment Interface Improving the way people interact with [...]

IMO Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III 12): Key Outcomes and Developments

The IMO Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III 12) met in London from 20 to 24 July 2026, progressing a wide range of regulatory and safety initiatives central to the effective implementation of IMO conventions. The session advanced work on casualty investigation, port State control, audit processes, survey and certification, and safety guidance for smaller vessel sectors. Strengthening Global Casualty Investigation The Sub-Committee continued its analysis of marine casualty reports, approving two new III.3 circulars covering lessons learned from recent incidents, including cases involving ruptured high‑pressure cylinders. Work also advanced on new outputs addressing fire safety on self‑unloading bulk carriers and risks associated with inflatable lifejackets. Preparatory steps were taken toward a future revision of the Casualty Investigation Code, supported by a newly established Correspondence Group. Developments in Port State Control III 12 reviewed proposed amendments to the 2025 Procedures for Port State Control, including updated guidance for [...]

ICHCA Insights – September 2026

Latest edition of "ICHCA Insights" available For the latest edition of our monthly newsletter “ICHCA Insights” please Click here For previous newsletters click here: https://ichca.com/newsletters

ITP89 & AGM 2026 – Registration Now Open

ITP89 & AGM 2026 - Registration Now Open 2-3 November 2026 | London ICHCA International is bringing its Technical Panel, AGM and members together in London on 2-3 November for two days of technical discussion, industry insight, networking and engagement with ICHCA's future direction. Four important questions The ICHCA Technical Panel meeting on 2 November will explore four key questions for cargo-handling safety. What does good cargo-handling safety look like? The opening session will explore severe risks and the ship-shore safety promise. Dangerous goods: are we getting the balance right? The second session will consider dangerous goods and what the losses are telling us. What will convince us that work is safe? The third session will look at what gives us confidence that work is genuinely safe, including a workplace safety case study. Where is ICHCA heading? The final session will consider ICHCA's direction of travel over the [...]

Bulk Terminals A Coruña 2026 – Exclusive Member Discount

Join ABTO’s annual bulk terminals conference with a £200 member saving ICHCA International is pleased to support the ABTO Bulk Terminals A Coruña 2026 Conference, taking place on 21–22 October at the Hotel Eurostars Atlántico. The event is dedicated to the entire bulk terminals industry and brings together operators, ports, suppliers, advisors and academics for two days of expert insight and practical discussion. This year’s theme, Coping with continuing uncertainties, addresses the geopolitical, operational and environmental pressures affecting bulk terminals worldwide. The programme features sessions on sector‑by‑sector market analysis, operations and opportunities, cyber security and AI, environmental protection, safety, and the latest innovations in port logistics and Industry 4.0 technologies. Delegates will hear from the Port Authority of A Coruña and local terminal operators on recent infrastructure investment, the agrifood logistics chain, and developments under the A Coruña Green Port initiative. The conference also offers extensive networking opportunities, including [...]

TT Club Innovation in Safety Award 2026

You may already have an award entry. Entries are open for the 2026 TT Club Innovation in Safety Award. The award recognises practical innovations that make cargo handling and logistics safer. Innovation can take many forms. It might be a technological development, an engineering solution, a new process, a training initiative, a different way of using data, or a practical operational improvement. You don't have to have invented something revolutionary. You may simply have identified a safety problem and found a better way of solving it. What have you changed that has made work safer? If you can answer that question, you may already have the basis of an entry. The award is open internationally to individuals, teams and organisations involved in cargo handling and logistics. Four award categories The awards cover four areas of safety innovation: Turning Data into Insight Using data, information or intelligence to identify risks, [...]

IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 111): Key Outcomes and Highlights

The IMO Maritime Safety Committee held its 111th session from 13 to 22 May 2026 at IMO Headquarters in London, progressing several major regulatory and safety initiatives that will shape the future of global maritime operations. The session combined in‑person and remote participation and delivered important advancements across autonomous shipping, alternative fuels, seafarer support, ship tracking, and maritime communications. New MASS Code Adopted for Autonomous Ships A landmark achievement of MSC 111 was the adoption of the non‑mandatory International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code). The Code provides a comprehensive, goal‑based framework to ensure autonomous and remotely operated ships meet equivalent levels of safety, security and environmental protection as conventional vessels. The Code will take effect on 1 July 2026, with Member States invited to apply it voluntarily ahead of future mandatory adoption under SOLAS. Support for Seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz The Committee [...]

ICHCA Member G2 Ocean, latest Safety Bulletin: Crane wire damage

Image: This cargo hold has an overhang, which increases the risk of the wire being dragged against the coaming. The crew has put up a mooring rope, to protect the bulkhead and alert the crane driver if the wire is too close. This edition is about a crane wire which was damaged from contact with the hatch coaming, and how practical solutions can be found to reduce this particular risk. ​​ CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SAFETY BULLETIN IN ENGLISH CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SAFETY BULLETIN IN PORTUGESE CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SAFETY BULLETIN IN SPANISH Message from G2 Ocean "We in G2 Ocean work with stevedores all over the world. By sharing lessons learned on safety between companies and ports, we believe we can reduce the number of incidents and personal injuries in our industry. It is part of G2 Ocean’s desired safety culture to always [...]

Innovative solutions can make the biggest difference in elevating cargo handling safety

ICHCA and TT Club open 2026 Innovation in Safety Awards London, 31 August 2026 – ICHCA International and long-standing sponsor TT Club are inviting the global cargo handling and logistics community to enter the 2026 TT Club Innovation in Safety Awards, with entries now officially open. Though much safety innovation involves significant technological breakthroughs, many of the most effective improvements begin with a simple observation, a problem identified on the frontline, or a better way of doing something that has been part of everyday operations for years. Now entering their second decade, the awards seek to identify and celebrate practical innovations that have made a demonstrable difference to safety across the cargo handling and logistics sector. Entries can range from new technologies and engineering solutions to changes in processes, training, procedures or operational practices. The awards are open to anyone involved in cargo logistics – including individuals, teams, companies, [...]

TT Club Innovation in Safety Awards Open Next Week

The TT Club Innovation in Safety Awards open for entries on 31 August 2026. ICHCA encourages all innovators, organisations, and safety leaders to prepare their submissions and help drive safety improvements across the global supply chain. Details available from: https://ichca.com/entering-the-tt-club-innovation-in-safety-award

IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84): Key Outcomes and Developments

The IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) held its 84th session from 27 April to 1 May 2026 in London, advancing a wide range of environmental protection measures central to IMO’s climate and pollution‑prevention agenda. The session delivered progress on greenhouse gas reduction, emissions control, marine litter, ballast water management, underwater radiated noise, and new regulatory initiatives. Driving Progress on the IMO Net Zero Framework MEPC 84 agreed to establish an intersessional Working Group to resolve outstanding concerns and build convergence on a global measure ahead of MEPC 85. Two intersessional meetings and a one‑day expert workshop on “chain of custody” fuel models were scheduled to support this work. Protecting the Marine Environment in the Strait of Hormuz The Committee adopted a resolution condemning attacks on commercial shipping in the region, highlighting the risk of large‑scale pollution from oil, hazardous substances and debris. The IMO Secretary‑General was requested to [...]

PEMA Publishes New White Paper: Collision Prevention at Ports & Terminals

ICHCA International is pleased to share a new White Paper produced by PEMA as part of a joint safety initiative with TT Club and ICHCA: IP17A – Collision Prevention at Ports & Terminals. Improving safety performance across global cargo-handling operations remains a shared priority for all three organisations. This publication, developed under PEMA’s Safety & Environment Committee, brings together industry research, stakeholder consultation and practical experience to address the ongoing challenge of collision risks in port and terminal environments. The White Paper provides: An overview of common collision scenarios Insight into contributing factors and risk trends A review of current and emerging technologies Practical recommendations for prevention and mitigation Considerations for implementation and continuous improvement The document is intended for port and terminal operators, equipment manufacturers, technology providers, insurers and all stakeholders involved in safety and operational performance. Download the White Paper: IP17A – Collision Prevention at Ports & [...]

Latest “TT Talk” Article Available – August 2026

The TT Club regularly provides informative, timely material on critical health, safety, security and environmental matters designed to help industry continually improve its performance. We are delighted to share the latest from TT Club in the TT Talk series. New TT Talk articles available below: TT Talk - The effects of heat stress and how to effectively manage the risk A changing climate is creating new challenges for ports and supply chain operations. TT Talk: When routine becomes risk: vehicle deck safety in port operations Vehicle deck operations are among the most familiar activities in the Ro-Ro and ferry environment. Trailers are marshalled, reversed, parked, trestled, lashed and released countless times each day across ports and terminals around the world. Precisely because these tasks are so familiar, risk tolerance can increase through over-familiarisation, where repeated exposure to a hazard without a negative outcome reduces the perception the [...]

ICHCA Insights – August 2026

Latest edition of "ICHCA Insights" available For the latest edition of our monthly newsletter “ICHCA Insights” please Click here For previous newsletters click here: https://ichca.com/newsletters

Join CTAC Asia 2026 in Bangkok – Exclusive 20% ICHCA Discount

Explore the future of container terminal automation in Bangkok this September. Plus, claim your exclusive 20% ICHCA member discount. CTAC Asia 2026 Returns to Bangkok to Drive the Future of Container Terminal Automation Bangkok, Thailand | 8 - 9 September 2026 – Port Technology International (PTI) is delighted to announce the return of the Container Terminal Automation Conference (CTAC) Asia 2026, taking place on 8 - 9 September 2026 at the Chatrium Grand Sukhumvit, Bangkok. Following the success of its inaugural Asian edition, CTAC Asia returns as the region's leading meeting point for port and terminal operators, technology innovators and maritime industry leaders to explore the technologies and strategies shaping the future of container terminal operations. Bringing together 200+ senior industry professionals, CTAC Asia 2026 will deliver two days of expert-led keynotes, panel discussions, practical case studies, workshops and unrivalled networking opportunities. The conference is designed to help ports [...]

Invasive pests and sea containers: July 2026 progress report

ICHCA has published a July 2026 progress report on international work to reduce the transfer of invasive pests through the sea container pathway. The progress report summarises current discussion around measures being considered by the CPM Focus Group and related industry bodies. At this stage, the direction appears to be towards practical and voluntary risk-reduction measures rather than immediate development of a new International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures. Possible measures include pest-resistant container design specifications, broader use of the revised CTU Code, voluntary custodial responsibility clauses, national recognition or accreditation schemes, and targeted awareness and education packages. ICHCA’s interest is focused on practical implementation and safety. Any pest-prevention measures must be safe, proportionate, achievable and supported by appropriate information, competence, equipment and controls. They should help reduce the risk of transferring invasive species without creating new hazards for people involved in packing, handling, inspection, cleaning, storage or transport operations. [...]

ICHCA July 2026 Press Clippings

We are delighted to share with you the press clippings for July 2026. By working with the media we can be the voice of our sector, raising awareness and sharing learning with industry and other stakeholders. The press clippings have been collated by Portcare International. ICHCA July 2026 Press Clippings

Celebrating Past Winners of the TT Club Innovation in Safety Awards

With entries opening on 31 August 2026, ICHCA celebrates past winners whose innovations have improved safety across cargo handling and logistics. Their achievements demonstrate the value of sharing practical solutions that benefit the entire industry. Selected from an impressive field of entries across four distinct categories, see the most recent winners’ innovations below: Winner: Turning data into insight SICK AG – The multiScan100-S is the first safety-certified 3D LiDAR sensor with Safe Multi-Echo Technology that can detect obstacles through rain, fog and dust, enabling automated container handling equipment to maintain full safety-rated detection ranges and high-speed operations without false alarms. Winner: Learning and engaging  Active Training Team – Thrive is an immersive Safety Leadership Centre that uses live actors, film and realistic scenarios across purpose-built rooms to emotionally engage offshore wind and cargo-handling workers, transforming their understanding of risk and empowering them to intervene and challenge unsafe practices. Winner: New ways [...]

One Shipment, Multiple Modes: Why Dangerous Goods Awareness Matters Across the Supply Chain

A dangerous goods shipment rarely remains within a single transport mode for its entire journey. A consignment may leave a manufacturing facility by road, pass through a rail terminal, travel internationally by sea and complete its journey by road once again. At every stage, different organisations, personnel and regulatory frameworks can be involved. For dangerous goods specialists, this complexity is familiar. For many others working within logistics, ports, terminals, warehousing and cargo operations, it can be less obvious. Although the principal regulations governing dangerous goods transport by air, rail, road and sea share common foundations, each mode has specific requirements and terminology. Understanding where those requirements sit can be challenging, particularly for organisations involved in multimodal operations. Safe transport depends not only on technical compliance but also on awareness throughout the supply chain. Personnel do not necessarily need to be experts in every regulation, but understanding the overall framework [...]

Australian Government Releases Practical Video Series on Minimising Pest Contamination in Global Sea Container Movements

The Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has released a valuable new series of educational videos addressing pest contamination risks associated with the international movement of sea containers. The five-video series has been developed to support industry stakeholders in understanding how pests can move through containerised supply chains and what practical actions can be taken to reduce those risks. According to the Department, sea containers play a critical role in global trade but can also contribute to the spread of pests and diseases that threaten agriculture, biodiversity, food security and international commerce. The videos address: Sea container pathway risks Custodial responsibilities throughout the logistics chain Visual examination of containers and cargo Managing identified pest contamination Implementing effective site hygiene practices For ICHCA members, the series offers a useful awareness and competence resource that can support training, operational discussions and continuous improvement initiatives across the container logistics sector. [...]

Why the TT Club Innovation in Safety Awards Matter

As we approach the opening date for the TT Club Innovation in Safety Awards on 31 August 2026, ICHCA highlights the importance of recognising innovation in safety. These awards help promote new ideas, encourage collaboration, and share best practices across the global supply chain. Learn more about how the awards support industry-wide safety improvements: https://ichca.com/entering-the-tt-club-innovation-in-safety-award

Not Everyone is a Dangerous Goods Specialist

Safe transport of dangerous goods depends on more than dangerous goods specialists. Operations staff, planners, supervisors, warehouse teams, freight forwarders, commercial personnel and managers all play important roles in ensuring dangerous goods move safely through the supply chain. Yet many people will never read the full dangerous goods regulations. ICHCA's Quick Guide to Dangerous Goods Transport by Air, Rail, Road and Sea helps bridge that gap by making the structure of the major dangerous goods frameworks easier to understand and access. Awareness supports competence. Competence supports safer operations. Download the guide here: CLICK HERE Please feel free to share the guide with colleagues and others across your organisation who may benefit from it.

Ports Under Pressure: New PTI Journal Features ICHCA Analysis of 25 Years of Cargo Handling Fatalities

Port Technology International (PTI) has published the latest edition of The Journal (Edition 162), Ports Under Pressure, bringing together contributions from industry organisations, associations and subject matter experts examining safety, resilience, operational risk and the future challenges facing ports and terminals. ICHCA International is pleased to contribute an article to this edition: Fatal Risk at the Port–Ship Interface: Learning from 25 Years of Cargo Handling Fatalities Written by Richard Steele, CEO of ICHCA International, the article draws on ICHCA's analysis of more than 25 years of cargo handling fatality data covering over 1,100 incidents and almost 1,700 casualties worldwide. The article examines recurring fatal risk categories, common operational activities associated with fatalities and the importance of leadership, critical controls and continuous learning. The analysis highlights a consistent pattern of fatal risks associated with: Crush incidents involving cargo Vehicle and pedestrian interaction Confined and enclosed spaces Falls from height Falls [...]