SPL31 RISKS AND CHALLENGES IN THE FERROPORT WORK OF THE GENERAL PORTS ADMINISTRATION (AGP), PORT OF BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
Authors: Colautti Maria Cecilia 
Published: July 2024

The General Ports Administration (AGP), Port of Buenos Aires, is a federal agency working to achieve a more efficient and comprehensive port policy. It manages the Port of Buenos Aires, the country's only national port, as well as the Trunk Navigation System and the maintenance, dredging, and buoying of access channels to the port. It also provides technical and logistical assistance for port infrastructure projects throughout Argentina. Ferroport work refers to activities and tasks carried out in maritime and river ports related to the railway transportation of cargo. These tasks are crucial to ensure efficient exchange of goods between trains and ships, facilitating international logistics and trade.The description of ferroport work can vary depending on the specific role and assigned responsibilities, the most important being: loading and unloading of goods: ferroport workers are responsible for loading and unloading cargo from train carriages. They use cranes, lifting equipment, and other tools to handle and move containers, packages, and products onto and off the trains. Ferroports activities require efficient organization and classification of cargo. This involves identifying the types of goods, their destination, and any special handling requirements, such as refrigeration or care for delicate products. They must also ensure that the cargo is properly stowed and secured for safe transport. Ferroport work, which involves the loading, unloading, and handling of goods in ports using railway equipment, can pose several risks to workers. Some common risks associated with ferroport work include musculoskeletal injuries, entrapment and crushing, falling from heights and chemical hazards. It is important for employers in the rail and port sector to implement appropriate safety measures, provide training to workers, and promote a culture of safety in the workplace to minimize these risks and protect the health and well-being of employees. To this end, the AGP occupational health management program has three main pillars: health Promotion: in line with the WHO's recommendations on health promotion in the workplace. This involves communication campaigns to raise awareness and promote prevention of both communicable and non-communicable chronic diseases. Health and well-being management: We offer nutritional and physiotherapy consulting, vaccination campaigns, health check-ups for the entire population beyond those conducted for specific risks, and a mental health management program that includes measuring psychosocial impacts in the workplace, anxiety, and resilience. Occupational medicine and coordination with safety: This includes compliance with current legal regulations regarding workplace safety and health. The work is ongoing to maintain high-quality standards in safety, health, and the environment, as our integrated management system is certified with ISO 14000, ISO 9000, and ISO 45000 standards. In conclusion, we can affirm that the ongoing interdisciplinary work to achieve safer workplaces in the rail and port industry is essential to protect workers, comply with regulations, increase productivity, and reduce costs. Efficient and safe management of port logistics is a crucial component of the global supply chain and contributes to the flow of goods in international trade.