Port of Tyne and Tranemo
Port of Tyne handles millions of tons of cargo each year. In such complex operations, PPE is not optional but essential. Through its partnership with Tranemo, the port provides its workforce with garments that meet strict safety standards whilst promoting innovation and sustainability.
A port that connects the world
Port of Tyne is one of the UK’s largest deep-sea ports. It handles everything from bulk cargoes such as coal, grain and chemicals to container shipments and roll-on/roll-off ferries. Bulk handling brings its own safety challenges, not only because of the enormous volumes but also due to the risks associated with dust, weight and in some cases hazardous substances.
The port also provides marine services, engineering solutions and a wide range of logistics support. Passenger traffic through the International Passenger Terminal in North Shields is steadily growing and has become an important link for international travel to and from the region.
The port contributes over £658 million to the local economy and supports more than 10,000 jobs. As one of the UK’s largest trust ports, it has no private owners. All profits are reinvested into the port’s facilities, equipment and the environment along the River Tyne. Every success achieved by the port not only strengthens its operations but also creates long-term value for the local community, regional businesses and the people who live and work there.
Safety at Port of Tyne
Work at the Port of Tyne takes place in challenging conditions. Heavy equipment, vessels, vehicles and people operate side by side. Safety must always come first.
“Safety first means never taking unnecessary risks. It’s about following procedures designed to prevent harm and thinking about potential dangers before starting a task. Safety is embedded in every part of our operations.” Terry Lendrum, Senior Health and Safety Advisor
The risks are varied. Container handling, vessel loading and unloading, hazardous materials, ro-ro operations, working at heights and in poor visibility, as well as equipment maintenance. Each task demands coordination and careful planning.
To manage these risks, the port follows a structured approach to assessments. Hazards are identified, likelihood and severity are evaluated and controls are put in place. The right PPE is then selected.
“Safety first means never taking unnecessary risks. It’s about following procedures designed to prevent harm and thinking about potential dangers before starting a task. Safety is embedded in every part of our operations.”
Training and awareness
Knowledge and personal protective equipment (PPE) are equally vital. The port invests heavily in training to make sure every worker understands the risks and knows how to use PPE correctly.
“We use a mix of methods, including hazard awareness sessions, hands-on exercises, accessible materials and refresher sessions. We keep detailed training and PR records and promote a culture where safety is second nature. It has to be led by example at every level of the organisation.” Terry Lendrum.
A partnership with Tranemo
The collaboration with Tranemo began through our PPE provider. Port of Tyne was reviewing its protective clothing provision and needed a supplier that could combine strict safety standards with innovation. Tranemo’s long experience in Flame Retardant and arc-protective garments made the choice clear.
“Our operations involve a variety of high-risk environments,” Terry explains. “We needed garments that provide flame and arc protection, withstand tough conditions and remain comfortable for long shifts.”
Innovation and sustainability
For the port, safety is always the first priority, but innovation and sustainability are key when choosing suppliers.
Terry explains that “innovation keeps us competitive, improves efficiency and supports our development as a forward-thinking organisation. Sustainability is equally important, not only for environmental responsibility, but also as a risk and reputation factor. We expect suppliers to meet standards such as ISO 14001 and Fair Trade. Tranemo’s focus on sustainable production and continual product innovation aligns perfectly with our objectives. That helps us protect our people, meet compliance requirements and strengthen our reputation for doing things the right way.”
Tranemo’s commitment to these values is central to the partnership. The garments are designed to meet high safety requirements while incorporating sustainable materials and processes.
A relationship built on aligned values: Safety, sustainability and innovation
The partnership between Tranemo and the Port of Tyne reflects a shared commitment to protect workers, drive innovation and strengthen sustainable practices. Introduced through a supplier, Tranemo worked closely with the Port to understand its operational risks and delivered protective garments and training to keep their teams safe in various high-risk environemnts. At the same time, Tranemo’s sustainable production practices and values reflect the Port’s own environmental priorities, reinforcing the value alignment at the core of the partnership.
Tranemo’s responsible production methods and use of environmentally considerate materials align with the Port of Tyne’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining operational excellence.
This relationship demonstrates how aligned values deliver long-term benefits, helping the Port of Tyne achieve long-term environmental goals, and deliver on their duty of care towards people and the planet.