A new compliance exercise covering ports and marine facilities has been launched across the UK by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
The initiative opened on 1 January 2026 and will run for three months, inviting facilities to demonstrate how they align with the Ports and Marine Facilities Safety Code.
The Ports and Marine Facilities Safety Code provides a common framework for managing safety in maritime operations. It applies to a wide range of facilities, from major commercial ports to smaller harbours and marinas, and addresses the safety of people, vessels, cargo and the environment. While compliance with the Code is not a statutory requirement, the MCA promotes it as a means of supporting consistent risk management and responsible operation.
Through the exercise, ports and marine facilities are encouraged to review and assess their existing safety arrangements and to evidence how these meet the principles of the Code in a proportionate way. The MCA has positioned the process as an opportunity for self-assessment rather than enforcement, with the aim of supporting continuous improvement across the sector.
According to the MCA, facilities that can demonstrate compliance show accountability and professionalism, which can help build confidence among stakeholders such as shipping companies, regulators and local communities. The exercise is also intended to support greater consistency in safety standards across the UK maritime sector.
Keeta Rowlands, Interim MCA Ports and Vessel Traffic Services Manager said:This compliance exercise is a proactive opportunity for all ports and marine facilities to review, assess, and demonstrate proportional alignment with the Code. It’s not just about meeting standards, it’s about embedding a culture of safety and continuous improvement across the sector.
Whether you’re a major international gateway, leisure harbour or small marina, your participation matters.
The MCA has stated that participation is relevant for all types of port and marine facilities, including large international ports, leisure harbours and small marinas.
