Strengthening preparedness through targeted training
Ports manage complex operations where multiple organisations share responsibility for incident readiness. To maintain confidence in their arrangements, a major European port brought together port authorities, a government agency, and a marine services company for a structured training programme. The aim was to reinforce coordination, review existing preparedness, and practise decision-making in a controlled environment.
Why the training was needed
Stakeholders at the port already conduct routine training, tabletop exercises, and drills. Their ongoing collaboration means personnel are familiar with shared procedures, but they recognised the value of deeper incident management training. The port wanted to ensure that managers, supervisors, and technical personnel could work confidently together during an emergency and reflect on lessons from a recent real-world incident.
How the training was delivered
OSRL provided IMO Level 2-equivalent On-Scene Commander training focused on:
- Classroom sessions covering response techniques and legislation
- Scenario-based tabletop exercises using the port’s advanced technology
- Structured discussions on roles, responsibilities, and communication flows
- Reflection sessions using insight from a recent incident at the port
Delegates practised coordination in a simulated environment, gaining clarity around decision-making, resource use, and interface management between organisations.
What organisations can apply
- Scenario-based exercises help strengthen inter-agency cohesion
- Reviewing past incidents supports practical learning
- Regular refreshers help non-specialists maintain confidence
- Coordinated investment in people and technology supports long-term readiness
- Joint training provides a forum to compare expectations and align approaches
Building confidence through shared training
The training supported the port’s focus on maintaining incident readiness and brought stakeholders together in a structured learning environment.
