More than 200 new Port of Baltimore workers this week had the chance to learn how to maneuver and operate the newest roll-on/roll-off cargo handled by terminal workers.
Now in its 10th year, the Ro/Ro Rodeo ? as it is tagged ? is designed to provide the workers, who are part of the International Longshoreman?s Association Local 333, with the basic driving and operating skills needed to handle the more than 777,000 tons of roll-on/roll-off cargo that comes through the Dundalk Marine Terminal each year, said Lou LoBianco, the port?s manager of break-bulk, bulk and Ro Ro sales.
“We?re the only port in the U.S. who is doing this,” LoBianco said. “It?s part of the reason we?re the No. 1 Ro/Ro port in the United States.”
According to J.B. Hansen, a spokesman for the Maryland Port Administration, the program works by having representatives from the cargo?s manufacturers come to the port for two days to show workers the specifics on how to handle their particular merchandise. Companies participating in this year?s program included Daimler Chrysler, Mercedes, CNH, Deere & Co. and AGCO.
“This is important because we want to make sure our customer?s merchandise is handled properly,” Hansen said. “We have a very low incident rate nationally for damaged cargo and we think it?s in part because of the Ro/Ro Rodeo we do and the quality handling team. [Cargo] really gets the white-glove treatment.”
Hansen added that the 200 new employees are a combination of workers replacing employees who have retired or relocated and new positions to handle an increase in business at the port. Last year?s program also saw more than 200 new workers.
LoBianco said that the Ro/Ro Rodeo is just one aspect of training and quality control that takes place throughout the year and that there is a constant dialogue among workers about the handling of cargo.
“It is important to these manufacturers, who recognize that if these guys are trained right the first time they?ll be safe and the cargo wont be damaged,” LoBianco said.
“Everyone becomes a winner when the cargo is handled right the first time.”
