Portworker Development Programme II (Bulk terminal)

Overview & Strategic Objective

Building on the success of PDP I, the PDP II (Bulk Terminals) was launched in 2014 by the ILO with the strategic support of the Government of the Republic of Korea.

The programme empowers governments and port authorities—especially in developing countries—to establish systematic training for the dry bulk sector. Key objectives include:

• Safety Transformation: Eliminating risks in inherently dangerous ship-and-shore bulk operations.
• Professionalization: Empowering the "unskilled" workforce (70% of the sector) through enhanced skills and motivation.
• Operational Excellence: Improving productivity, environmental controls, and the overall welfare of portworkers.

The PDP II Training Methodology

PDP II moves beyond simple "how-to" instructions. It is grounded in ILO standards and developed by global subject matter experts to explain the "why" behind every procedure.

Core Features of the Curriculum:

• Risk-Based Approach: Priority is given to high-risk areas where a lack of training threatens lives, sophisticated equipment, and vessel integrity.
• Blended Learning: Instructor-led classroom sessions are integrated with group work, practical worksheets, and on-site visits to terminals and ships.
• Focus Areas: Heavy emphasis on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) and Environmental issues across major dry bulk commodities.

Standard Training Package

The PDP II system provides a comprehensive toolkit for instructors to ensure high-impact training delivery. Each instructional Unit includes:

• Instructor’s Lesson Plan: A structured guide for delivering technical content.
• Multimedia Presentations: Visual supports for complex operational concepts.
• Trainee Handouts: Reference materials for participants.
• Educational Videos: Visual demonstrations of best practices and safety protocols.
• Support Resources: A specialized Glossary of Technical Terms and a dedicated Instructor’s Guide.

Curriculum Structure: The 10 Learning Units

The PDP II curriculum provides deep technical expertise for five major dry bulk commodities (Iron Ore, Coal, Fertilizer, Grain, and Bauxite/Alumina) and essential safety management.

1. Core Operations & Commodity Handling

• D1.1 Dry Bulk Terminal Operations
• D1.2 Transport, Handling and Storage of Iron Ore
• D1.3 Transport, Handling and Storage of Coal
• D1.4 Transport, Handling and Storage of Bulk Fertilizer
• D1.5 Transport, Handling and Storage of Grain
• D1.6 Transport, Handling and Storage of Bauxite and Alumina

2. Specialized Safety & Equipment

• D4.1 Safe Working in Dry Bulk Terminals
• D4.2 Safe Working on Dry Bulk Ships
• D5.1 Operations of Quayside Gantry Cranes and Equipment

3. Supervisory Excellence

• S1.5 Supervision of Dry Bulk Operations