The APB strengthens security in marinas and yachting ports with new fire safety regulations

This is a pioneering regulation in Spain that enhances safety in nautical facilities across the Balearic Islands.

The Balearic Islands Port Authority (APB) has approved the first ordinance on fire protection and self-protection for marinas and yachting ports within the APB's public domain. This marks the first regulation of its kind in Spain, establishing a pioneering legal framework to improve safety in these facilities.

The development of the regulation involved collaboration from various fire prevention and extinguishing services across the Balearic Islands, including fire departments from Palma, Mallorca, Menorca, and Formentera. Experience in managing emergencies at ports and marinas, both within the region and in other communities, served as the foundation for defining safety criteria, procedures, and guidelines.

The final text of the ordinance was created through a participatory process involving various organizations and stakeholders from the sector. Notable contributions came from the College of Naval Engineers of the Balearic Islands, which collaborated on drafting the regulation for a year, as well as the Association of Nautical-Sports Facilities (ANADE) and the Association of Nautical Clubs of the Balearic Islands, both of which submitted joint proposals that were incorporated into the final version.

The risk analysis identified several contributing factors, such as the increase in boat lengths and the addition of onboard amenities like kitchens, air conditioning systems, electrical mechanisms, and other equipment that raise the likelihood of fire. These risks, combined with the need for constant electrical connection and the challenges of maintenance in a marine environment, have created a scenario of heightened vulnerability.

Furthermore, emergency response in these situations is particularly complex due to the geometry of nautical facilities. Difficulties in detecting and organizing emergency situations, along with the lack of adequate alert systems, delay response times and worsen the impact of fires.

In response to this situation, the APB has promoted the development of this ordinance from a cross-disciplinary perspective, incorporating the specific risks of these facilities and ensuring the safety of people and property. The regulation will also support more effective intervention by both internal and external emergency services.

This new regulation becomes a national benchmark, setting a precedent for future port regulations related to fire prevention and safety.