The International Labour Organization (ILO) has completed a global training programme aimed at improving safety standards and strengthening professional skills for port workers operating in bulk cargo terminals across multiple countries.
The initiative was delivered under the Portworker Development Programme II (PDP 2) in partnership with the International Training Centre of the International Labour Organization and focused on enhancing the capacity of trainers responsible for educating port workers in safe operational practices.
The five-week online programme, held from 27 April to 29 May 2026, brought together participants from 12 countries, including port professionals, maritime instructors, and training specialists. It combined self-paced learning with live virtual sessions, practical exercises, and peer assessments designed to improve instructional quality in bulk terminal operations.
A key objective of the training was to address safety risks in a sector that handles a significant share of global trade. ILO officials highlighted that a large proportion of workers in dry bulk terminals are still considered unskilled, increasing their exposure to hazardous working conditions without adequate training.
Participants received instruction on safe cargo handling, crane operations, terminal procedures, and supervisory practices. The programme also emphasized improving training systems so that safety knowledge can be effectively transferred to frontline port workers.
The initiative brought together stakeholders from port authorities, training institutions, trade unions, and private operators across regions including Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, reflecting a global effort to improve maritime safety standards.
The programme was supported by international cooperation, including financial and technical contributions from the Republic of Korea, and is part of long-standing ILO efforts to promote decent work and safer conditions in the maritime sector.
Originally launched in 1994, the Portworker Development Programme has evolved over time to address emerging risks in port operations. The expanded PDP 2 framework now covers bulk cargo handling such as coal, grain, fertilizers, and minerals, with a strong focus on reducing workplace accidents and improving operational efficiency.
Overall, the initiative reinforces global efforts to modernize port training systems, enhance worker safety, and promote more sustainable and professional maritime logistics operations worldwide.
