DP World introduces strict safety measures for staff

DP World, UAE region, has introduced an extensive action plan to ensure the health and safety of its staff amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

The slew of initiatives include segregating workforces, increasing cleaning and disinfection process, providing transportation and accommodation for staff. 

The measures are applied in close consultation with ports and health authorities to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Many Port and Free Zone operations, such as remotely operated quay cranes and automated gantry cranes and gates, are inherently resilient thanks to their investment in technology. 
 
At the Jebel Ali Port and Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), the focus is on securing the integrity and efficiency of the movement of vital supplies like food items, medicine and medical equipment for the UAE and Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

Work from home options are made available to majority of their employees, with thermal cameras installed at all operational buildings, entrances and gates.

As an added precaution, all fingerprint scanners have been deactivated and social distancing rules implemented on the premises.

“Our people are our most valuable assets and we put their safety and health as our top priority," stressed Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region and CEO of Jafza.

"As a frontline economic growth engine, DP World, UAE Region and its businesses are currently operating under the UAE’s Coronavirus Prevention & Response Plan along with Business Continuity Plans that are customised for each operating entity.

"We have taken every measure we can to keep trade flowing because our nation needs the goods we are moving, such as food and medical supplies, to face the crisis."

 All in-house canteens, food courts and restaurants within DP World, UAE Region’s premises are catering to delivery requests only.

Isolation rooms have been identified in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) camps and all processes and procedures are in line with Dubai Health Authority (DHA) guidelines for dealing with such cases.
 
Ship crews, arriving or departing, are required to pass through thermal cameras, provide health updates and obtain the Harbour Master’s approval before boarding or deboarding vessels. Arrangements have been made to provide hospitalisation facilities for crewmembers if required.
 
Trained HSE teams and Security personnel are deployed on 24|7 high alert to maintain a close watch on the situation, and ensure absolute compliance with the health and safety requirements of Dubai and the UAE.