The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has initiated a three-month compliance exercise aimed at UK ports and marine facilities. This initiative encourages alignment with the Ports and Marine Facilities Safety Code, as reported by Saint Petersburg's Port News.

The exercise seeks to reinforce safety standards and promote the adoption of best practices across ports and facilities of all sizes.

The Ports and Marine Facilities Safety Code provides a comprehensive framework that addresses the safety of personnel, vessels, cargo, and the environment. It applies to both major commercial ports and smaller local harbours and marinas.

While participation in this exercise is voluntary, the MCA strongly encourages facilities to assess and demonstrate their alignment with the code to mitigate risks and operate responsibly.

Interim MCA Ports and VTS Manager Keeta Rowlands described the exercise as a proactive opportunity to foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement within the sector.

The invitation to participate will remain open on GOV.UK until March 1.

The MCA is an executive agency of the UK Department for Transport, responsible for maritime safety, security, and environmental protection, including oversight of seafarer standards, vessel certification, and coastal search and rescue coordination.