Explore Port Safety with Lorraine Casey Ahead of Ireland’s Port Safety Week

To mark Port Safety Week and celebrate 1,111 years of Ireland’s oldest port, the Port of Waterford has released the sixth episode of its podcast series, Port of Waterford 1111. Hosted by RTÉ Seascapes’ Tom MacSweeney, the episode features Lorraine Casey, Health and Safety Officer at the Port of Waterford, discussing the vital role of safety in ports.

Lorraine explains that Port Safety Week, now in its fifth year, aims to raise awareness of the everyday risks present in ports—from heavy machinery and container handling to the complex movement of vehicles and people. She highlights that safety is not just about wearing personal protective equipment but also about situational awareness, avoiding complacency, and understanding that even experienced workers can face hazards. Using real-life scenarios, she shows how minor lapses can have serious consequences, emphasising the importance of a culture where everyone feels empowered to stop unsafe acts and speak up.

The episode also explores how digital technology is increasingly used to support health and safety management, from risk assessments to monitoring compliance. Lorraine shares the satisfaction of seeing a workplace where employees actively engage with safety rules, think ahead about potential hazards, and take responsibility for themselves and others. She stresses that health and safety is more than regulations—it is about common sense, teamwork, and creating an environment where people can work safely without incident.

Listeners will also hear how Waterford collaborates with other Ports and the Health and Safety Authority to share observations, lessons, and training exercises, ensuring safety is continuously improved. Lorraine describes initiatives such as defibrillator training for all staff and hands-on exercises with emergency services, highlighting how preparation and awareness can prevent accidents and save lives.

The Port of Waterford 1111 podcast series also features earlier episodes exploring Ireland’s maritime heritage, including the port’s historical role in trade, its impact on the city’s development, and its connections with Europe. These episodes combine history, culture, and local insight, making the series essential listening for anyone interested in maritime Ireland.

To listen to the full episode, visit Port of Waterford 1111. Until the end of 2025, the podcast series will continue to be updated, exploring Ireland’s and Waterford’s maritime heritage at https://www.portofwaterford.com/port-1111/