KFTL prioritises safety, offers hurricane-readiness tips for businesses

IN THE aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, which left a trail of destruction and billions in damages across the island, the Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited (KFTL) has offered advice to stakeholders and businesses on preparations for the remainder of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season.

KFTL recommends that businesses implement a risk management approach throughout their operations. This involves identifying potential threats and establishing appropriate controls to guarantee preparedness.

Companies, specifically those in flood-prone areas, should adopt mitigation measures to reduce flood risks. Further, the company stressed the importance of a documented hurricane preparedness and response plan, and regularly drilling these plans to test the effectiveness of the company’s procedures and the staff’s ability to execute them effectively.

Finally, KFTL encouraged businesses to consider forming mutual aid agreements with other companies and maintaining strong working relationships with emergency response agencies. These collective efforts can significantly improve preparedness and recovery capabilities during the hurricane season.

The Category 4 storm, which devastated southern parishes, was a reminder of the island’s vulnerability to extreme weather events. KFTL, mindful of potential storm impact, emphasised its commitment to safeguarding its own facilities, employees, and client cargo.

“KFTL maintains a robust hurricane preparedness and response programme,” the company stated, highlighting its focus on preventative measures, such as maintaining clear drainage systems throughout the terminal and surrounding areas. This proactive approach aims to minimise flooding risks like those experienced throughout the island during Beryl’s passage.

During hurricane threats, KFTL prioritises the safety of its workforce. The company outlined a clear plan, ensuring non-essential staff are sent home well before a storm’s arrival. A dedicated core team then prepares the terminal for shutdown, and within 12 hours of the storm’s approach, all employees are off-site. Security personnel take over facility manning until the storm passes.

KFTL also extends focus on safety beyond its employees, encouraging staff to create a personal family disaster response plan. By promoting individual preparedness, the company strengthens the resilience of its workforce in the face of potential hurricanes.

KFTL also maintains open communication channels to keep clients informed. Through its communications unit and operations teams, the company provides timely updates on potential disruptions or delays caused by impending storms. This openness is designed to encourage clients to make informed decisions about their cargo shipments.

Likewise, KFTL emphasised its client-centric approach. The company highlighted its internal management plans that facilitate the relocation of cargo within the facility, based on KFTL’s hurricane preparedness and response plan. This strategic yard and quayside preparation aims to minimise damage to cargo and expedite business resumption after a storm.

KFTL assures that it has measures in place to address potential environmental threats during hurricanes. The company revealed a risk-based approach to managing hazardous materials, which involves ensuring the removal of all hazardous waste from the terminal before a storm’s arrival. Additionally, all hazardous materials related to KFTL’s operations are stored in facilities equipped with secondary containment systems to prevent leaks or spills.

KFTL further explained that hazardous cargo is stored in designated sheltered locations to reduce damage from wind and storm surges. These comprehensive measures are designed to protect the environment from potential pollution during hurricanes.

The Atlantic hurricane season ends on November 30.