Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1990, published 77th ILC session (1990)

Protection against Accidents (Dockers) Convention (Revised), 1932 (No. 32) - Panama (Ratification: 1971)

The Committee notes the general Regulations on safety and health in dock work and the Regulations respecting safety and health committees in docks which were approved by the national Port Authority Executive Committee. These Regulations give effect to most of the provisions of the Convention.

The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply additional information in its next report on the following points:

1. Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention. By virtue of section 125 of the general Regulations on safety and health in dock work, all hatchways must be protected up to a height of at least one metre by coamings or fences. Please indicate the measures that have been taken to protect all other openings in a deck which might be dangerous to workers.

2. Article 9, paragraph 2(2). The provisions of section 29(e) and section 30 of the general Regulations provide for periodical meticulous tests and examinations of hoisting machines and gear for the fixing of cargoes. Please indicate the periods between these tests and examinations.

3. Article 9, paragraph 2(5). The provisions of section 136(d) of the general Regulations lay down that the maximum authorised load must be marked only on the plan for securing the load. Please indicate any provisions that have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that the maximum working load is marked on the equipment itself.

4. Article 9, paragraph 2(7). Section 37 of the general Regulations provide for such means as will reduce the risk of cargo falling for hoisting equipment installed on transport vehicles. Please indicate the provisions that have been adopted or are envisaged for this purpose as regards other types of cranes and winches.

Please indicate the means by which the application of the following provisions of the Convention is ensured: Article 2, paragraph 2 (safety of means of access); Article 3, paragraphs 3 and 6 (means of access to the ship); Article 5, paragraphs 2, 5 and 6 (means of access to the holds of the ship); Article 8 (safety in the removing or replacing of hatch coverings); Article 9, paragraph 2(9) (measures to prevent the foot of a derrick being accidentally lifted out of its socket or support); Article 11, paragraphs 1, 2 and 5-9 (safety measures when handling loads); Article 14 (prohibition on removing or interfering with means of access, equipment, etc., without authorisation).