TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO: Port of Port of Spain plans upgrade of workforce
2015 February: The Port of Port of Spain (PPOS), Trinidad and Tobago’s first and largest multi-purpose port facility looks to the year ahead with plans to upgrade the competencies of its workforce and expand employment as well as its operations capabilities. New equipment will be acquired and facilities are to be improved as projects now active are completed and planned developments are implemented.
The Port listed among its plans: the implementation of new working practices; recruitment and training of new employees; training and development of existing staff; upgrading of equipment and the acquisition of new equipment which might include, in the next 18 months, a ship-to-shore gantry crane.
The port administration says it expects these initiatives to create within the organization a greater sense of urgency and focus, particularly in addressing external factors.
As regards Information Technology, upgrading of the container terminal management system has already started with installation of more functionally elaborate computer software. The latest version of its NAVIS software was installed in December last. New computer hardware has been placed in existing trucks and RTGs and additional access points have been installed, giving improved connectivity across the entire terminal.
Work in progress involving equipment includes an improved scheduled preventive maintenance programme and intense servicing and inspection of all equipment. This is being done with the DYNASTAR Computerized Maintenance Management System. Other projects now under way or scheduled include:
- STS001 & STS002 cranes – improvement of the safety systems on both cranes by the installation of a modern hoist control system
- Human Resources – hiring of additional mechanics and electricians
- Training of employees to improve skills sets and troubleshooting capability
