ICHCA International, the International Cargo Handling Coordination Association, has published updated findings from its Severe Risks Dashboard, providing a data-driven assessment of high-consequence incidents involving shore-side cargo handling personnel over the last 25 years.
The analysis, based on nearly 500 reported cases since 2000, identifies key hazards contributing to workplace fatalities and underlines the importance of continuous safety management at ports and terminals.
According to the data, the risk to port workers is almost evenly split between vessel and onshore operations, with three-quarters of incidents occurring during cargo handling activities.
Crush incidents caused by cargo were the leading cause of fatalities, representing 25% of the total, followed closely by vehicle and pedestrian impacts, accounting for 23%. Falls from height and incidents in confined or enclosed spaces also featured prominently in the dataset.
“Our intention is to raise the level of awareness of these fatal incidents and their primary causes,” said Richard Steele, CEO of ICHCA International.
“Together with our members, we believe that safeguarding all workers employed both directly and indirectly in the workplace is the prime responsibility of operating organisations and authorities of cargo terminals. Through this greater awareness and knowledge, we aim to help minimise these risks in the future.”
The Severe Risks Dashboard is freely accessible via ICHCA’s website, with analysis of trends across causes such as loading and discharging operations, maintenance activities, equipment handling, and third-party vehicle access.
ICHCA notes that while the data cannot be fully comprehensive, it provides valuable insights into recurring patterns and underlying causes. The organisation says its aim is not only to understand past incidents but to support proactive measures that can improve safety standards across the industry.
