Three long-serving employees of Kingston Container Terminal Services Limited (KCT), along with over 20 members of the shipping industry, were recently recognised for their exemplary safety records, as well as their contribution to safety initiatives.

The three, Oswald 'Ossie' McLeod, Eric Collins and Cedric 'Tom' Sutherland were recognised for their outstanding safety records, while two employees of the Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ), Newton Brown and Derron Surgeon, as well as Damian Crossgill of KCT, received special safety awards. Additionally, 20 safety wardens of KCT received certificates for training conducted by the Jamaica Fire Brigade. The ceremony was held at KCT's Port Bustamante offices.

Brown, of the SAJ, welcomed the award and noted that it was proof that the terminals are taking a more serious approach to safety and are willing to work with contracted labourers, such as the SAJ, to achieve their targets.

He said he will continue to play his part in assisting the terminal to achieve its goals. "I remain focussed and firm in my support for safety and will do my part to ensure that everyone on the port, work in a safer environment."

Surgeon, also of the SAJ, said that the awards prove that safety is no longer "on the wall", but an action which must be observed by all.

"Considering where the stevedoring trade is coming from, to get this kind of recognition as an SAJ staff, will impact our peers and stir them into action, influencing them to follow the safety procedures," Surgeon said. He added that the award is a positive for the industry.

The three senior employees, McLeod, Collins and Sutherland received special citations highlighting their achievements.

Ossie McLeod

McLeod, who followed in his father's footsteps, began working at the SAJ in 1966 at 16. He began as a Stevedore and quickly moved up the ranks to Quay Gantry Crane Operator. In 2001, he joined the KCT family. It was noted that, like any true craftsman, he has a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the equipment which he operates, and he has honed and demonstrated these skills over the years. He was commended for serving the Terminal well, willingly lending his expertise to challenging assignments, while maintaining a record of safety, accuracy and efficiency as a Quay Gantry Crane Operator and Trainer.

Cedric Sutherland

Sutherland has dedicated his working life to KCT for more than 30 years as a karri lift operator, equipment operator, training supervisor and equipment marshal.

Described as a 'born' equipment operator, Sutherland's skills encompass operating forklifts, tractor heads, and 25-ton lift trucks, in addition to container handling equipment. He is described by his peers as reliable, proactive, punctual, highly skilled and very committed to the interests of the Terminal.

Eric Collins

Collins joined KCT in 1981 as an electronic technician. Twenty-eight years later, he has served in many capacities including trainee engineer, shift engineer and assistant shift manager.

He has become a resource person for his colleagues on new technology regarding Quay Gantry Cranes. His sound technical background, excellent analytical and trouble shooting skills, coupled with his systematic approach to tasks have also made him very effective in his various roles.