Brussels, 19 June 2026 – The European project GUARD (Global Upskilling for Crane and Port Operations Safety) has officially kicked off with the aim of tackling one of the main challenges in the maritime sector: reducing workplace accidents linked to the use of port machinery across Europe.
The initiative is launched in a context marked by high accident rates in the maritime-port sector. According to European Maritime Safety Agency, 2,510 accidents were reported in 2022. In Spain alone, the rate in thissector is twice the national average, particularly in areas where fishing plays a key role in the local economy.
To address this challenge, GUARD will promote improved safety standards and professional skills through the development of an innovative training programme aimed at port workers. The training will combine technical knowledge, practical skills and digital tools, contributing to safer and more efficient operations.
The project includes a needs assessment of the sector, the design of specialised training materials, and the development of digital learning resources. It will also organise pilot workshops to facilitate the exchange ofknowledge and best practices among maritime and port professionals across Europe. The project will be mainly implemented in Spain and Portugal by Spanish Organización de Palangreros Guardeses (ORPAGU) and the Portuguese entities Docapesca – Portos e Lotas and Associação Pró-Maior Segurança dos Homens do Mar, specialised in the safety of maritime professionals.
The official launched of the project took place with a kick off meeting on June, 9.
About the GUARD project
Co-funded by the European programme for vocational education and training, Erasmus+, GUARD has a strong European dimension and fosters cooperation between countries, helping to align vocational training withcurrent labour market demands.
The project is driven by a multidisciplinary consortium including the Spanish company Organización de Palangreros Guardeses (ORPAGU), the Portuguese entity Docapesca – Portos e Lotas, which is responsible foroverall coordination; the Finnova foundation, in charge of management and communication; and the Associação Pró-Maior Segurança dos Homens do Mar, specialised in the safety of maritime professionals.