ABPmer delivers PMSC audit for Cowes Harbour Commission

Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) recently appointed marine consultancy ABPmer to provide a complete check of its compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC).

The PMSC assurance audit is required of all UK Harbour Authorities and any organisation running port marine terminals. The aim of an assurance visit is to confirm that standards of marine safety are maintained, in line with the requirements of the Code.

Cowes Harbour Commission operates the largest port on the Isle of Wight, with a fast-craft, passenger and freight ferry connection to the Port of Southampton handling approximately 3,000,000 passengers annually. The port also provides for commercial ships handling approximately 600,000 tonnes of cargo each year.

Cowes is world renowned for its yacht and leisure community, hosting events such as Cowes Week and the annual Round the Island Race. As a Harbour Authority, CHC provides a Pilotage service and a dedicated harbour patrol for on-the-water safety and assistance.

ABPmer’s specialist Maritime team found that Cowes Harbour Commission is compliant with all requirements of the Code. The audit tested the 10 key measures required for successful implementation of the Code, together with the associated port marine operations.

The Commission’s Harbour Master and Chief Executive, Captain Stuart McIntosh said “The audit result is further endorsement and confirmation that Cowes Harbour Commission is fully committed to providing a safe operation for our local port community and all our visiting harbour users.”

Monty Smedley, ABPmer’s Lead PMSC Auditor added “We are very pleased to confirm that Cowes Harbour Commission and their harbour operations demonstrate complete compliance with the Code, with many examples that we consider to be industry best practice.”

ABPmer has a wealth of experience delivering Port Marine Safety Code support services to port and harbour operators. Their maritime consultants, master mariners, marine scientists, regulatory advisors and auditors provide a total risk management solution tailored to the needs of the ports and harbour sector.