Greece’s Maritime Ministry Introduces Stricter Safety Protocols for Ports and Ferries

The Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy has reiterated measures to enhance safety at Greece’s ports.

This announcement comes a year after the tragic loss of Antonis Karyotis, who died in the port of Piraeus while attempting to board a ship.

Following this incident, the ministry intensified efforts to ensure “seamless island connectivity with secure port facilities.”

The measures, first introduced by Minister Christos Stylianidis in January 2024, require all port operations to comply with the following safety protocols:

– Enhanced Lighting: Adequate lighting must be provided at all docking stations.
– First Aid Equipment: First aid kits should be readily available at all ports.
– Lifesaving Gear: Lifeguard equipment must be present at passenger ship docks.
– Surveillance Cameras: Cameras are to be installed in front of berthing ramps.
– Safety Railings: Railings must be placed along docks to prevent falls into the water.
– Pedestrian Pathways: Designated walkways and corridors must be established to safely separate pedestrians from vehicles on the docks.

– Accessible Parking: Designated parking areas near berthing platforms must be provided for people with disabilities, with clear signage indicating these spaces.
– Illuminated Staircases: All staircases on port breakwaters and platforms must be adequately lit.
– Traffic Control: Traffic cones should be used to manage passenger and vehicle flows.
– Warning Signs: Danger zones for pedestrians and vehicles should be clearly marked.
– Obstacle Removal: All obstructions in pedestrian or vehicle pathways must be cleared.
– Safety Oversight Committee: A dedicated committee will monitor safety standards and address any deficiencies.

Measures for port employees include:

– Mandatory attendance at First Aid seminars and training programs.
– Training to assist passengers with disabilities.
– Obligatory use of safety equipment and gear.

Measures for shipping companies include:

– Life rings must be installed on both sides of the ferry loading hatch.
– Crew members must be equipped with protective gear.
– Passengers are required to board and disembark ferries using designated passenger ramps.
– All relevant safety and informational materials must be made available to passengers.
– Special attention must be given to individuals with mobility issues.
– Mandatory seminars for addressing the needs of people with disabilities.

Photo source: Attica Group

The ministry has also mandated biannual drills for accident-related hazards at all ports under real conditions.

Regarding the port of Piraeus, Greece’s largest, most of the above measures have already been implemented. The ministry has announced that a permanent ambulance service has been secured, and additional traffic cameras have been installed not only on the docks but throughout all port areas. The ministry noted that most Greek ports have either adapted to or are in the process of complying with the new regulations.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs emphasized that port safety remains a top priority for the Greek government, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis repeatedly stating that it is “a matter I take personally”.