Friday, August 17, 2018

New Emergency Plan for the Port of Los Angeles

By Karen Robes Meeks

The Port of Los Angeles has a new Waterside Emergency Access Plan that will allow for faster water access in case of an emergency at the port.

Oftentimes, first responders face traffic delays around the port when they must reach an emergency at the port by land.

The plan designates 11 emergency locations in the harbor for emergency boats access, including 10 locations at container and bulk terminals, and one at the World Cruise Center. The locations will have bold signage, painted bulk rails and pavement and new waterside ladders, according to the port.

The plan was established with the help of the Los Angeles Fire Department, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), Los Angeles Port Police and port terminal operators.

“Development of this plan shows what can happen when entities work collaboratively and bring their collective knowledge to the table to improve safety at the Port,” said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “We commend the ILWU and Los Angeles Fire Department representatives for bringing this solution to us.”