NAIROBI: Truck owners and drivers have up to comply with new port safety regulations and traffic rules or be locked out from collecting cargo.
The Kenya Ports Authority has availed a checklist for used in cargo trucks inspection to ensure conformity with safety standards at the port of Mombasa.
In a public notice yesterday, KPA said the new regulations will be effected from March 1. All drivers must have valid driving licences and passports, and wear protective gear that includes reflective jackets, helmets and safety shoes.
“All commercial trucks and lorries wishing to enter the port will be required to meet the minimum safety requirements. Any truck or lorry not meeting the above safety requirements will be denied entry into the port,” managing director Gichiri Ndua said in the notice.
Drivers must also wear safety belts at all times when within the port and undertake a basic safety induction course at Bandari College.
Trucks must be roadworthy, in good condition and have valid insurance and inspection certificates. They must have side mirrors, functional indicators and hazard signals, no worn-out or damaged tires and be fitted with appropriate reflectors.
Windscreens should be firmly secured and wipers functional, and trucks be equipped with two metal stoppers or wheel chokes, two triangle life savers, first aid box, fire extinguishers and no leaks from the steering box.
Trucks carrying steel coils should have appropriate steel cradles and wires or chains with turnbuckles for slashing, as well as functional and audible reverse beeper.
KPA head of security Mohamed Morowa said the port has been experiencing traffic, caused by unroadworthy trucks that break down frequently.
“The port is not a garage. This is a place you come, pick [cargo] and go. We cannot have trucks breaking down in the port occupying space that should be used by others,” Morowa said on phone.
About 2,500 trucks go in and out of the port daily to pick and drop cargo, he said. These include transit and local [import and export] cargo trucks.
“All trucks have up to end month to go back to garages and comply,” said Morowa.
He said persistent vehicle breakdowns are a threat to the smooth movement of cargo, which could lead to congestion at the port.
