Malta Freeport Terminals marked World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2026 with a company-wide programme focused on strengthening its zero-incident culture.
Built around the theme ‘Everyone Goes Home Safe. No Exceptions’, the initiative brought together employees across operations, engineering and administration, alongside contractors, hauliers and port workers, reinforcing a shared responsibility for safety in day-to-day activities.
Our CEO Alex Montebello emphasised that safety must guide every task and decision across the Terminal, while QHSE Manager Christian Grima outlined the continued focus on prevention, accountability and the consistent use of Stop Work Authority.
The programme combined practical engagement with targeted training and real-time application. Leadership-led Gemba Walks were carried out across quays, yards and gate operations to support immediate risk identification and resolution, while safety stand-down session, led by Felipe Barbosa, Execution Manager,reinforced critical behaviours, including the correct use of PPE and helmet.
Emergency preparedness formed a central component, with simulation exercisesincluding a crane and RTG rescue exercise with the Civil Protection Department Malta, oil spill response training with Ocean Care Ltd, and fire response scenarios. CPR and AED demonstrations by Mario Delicata further strengthened response capability in critical situations.
A structured onsite safety competition was also held. Three teams of employees participated, working through a series of scenario-based questions covering fire safety, emergency response, CPR and AED use, PPE, Stop Work Authority, and hazard reporting. The exercise also addressed ergonomics, electrical safety, manual handling, environmental protection and yard vigilance. The winning team was composed of Alexandro Bonnici, Michael Gauci, Clint Pisani and Ryan Sciberras.
On the same day, our CEO presented awards to the winners of the Strengthening Safety Culture at Malta Freeport Safety Suggestions Competition, based on proposals submitted by employees in advance of Safety Day. First prize was awarded to Adrian Gatt, followed by Michael Camilleri and Isaac Zammit. The recognised suggestions focused on improvements in PPE, reducing risks associated with working at height, and environmental enhancements.
Engineering-focused sessions were also delivered to technicians and contractor personnel by Chief Engineering Officer James Peter Alsop and Engineering Manager Ivan Curmi. These addressed key operational risks including working at height, lock-out/tag-out procedures, confined space entry, lifting operations, fatigue and shift work, fire and electrical hazards, emergency response and first aid, alongside behavioural safety and the application of Stop Work Authority.
Additional sessions throughout the programme covered hazard and near-miss reporting, led by Ramona Cini, QHSE Officer. A wellbeing session by Shanice Ghigo delivered in collaboration with Sedqa provided real-life insights to help employees manage stress, strengthen resilience, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
The initiatives extended beyond core operations. A blood donation drive supported national healthcare services, while a children’s drawing competition promoted safety awareness within the wider community. The winners of children’s competition are Alexandra Farrugia Sciberras and Jean Viacava.
Health promotion formed part of the overall approach, with fresh fruit distributed across all shifts to encourage healthier lifestyle choices, alongside a safety campaign focused on visual awareness across the Terminal.
The consistent message throughout remained clear: GO HOME SAFE. NO EXCEPTIONS.
The programme reflects Malta Freeport Terminals’ meticulous approach to safety through practical engagement, training, shared responsibility and continuous improvement.
