Mechanics, painters and riggers are everyday contractors onsite, but each brings risk, especially if they are underinsured, underqualified, or unfamiliar with site procedures.

“Best practice would be to have a set plan in place to ensure contractors have adequate insurances and training suited to individual marina requirements, vessel type mix, and infrastructure,” says Glen Schembri, Head of Commercial at Nautilus Marine Insurance.

Why Access Control Matters

Marinas often have open layouts accessible to the public, while shipyards are more secure and industrial. Both must carefully manage who can access what, when, and under what conditions.

Unrestricted or poorly monitored access increases the risk of:

• Injury or safety incidents
• Damage to vessels or infrastructure
• Insurance or compliance failures
• Theft or unauthorised use of equipment

Effective access control ensures only approved, qualified, and inducted personnel are allowed onsite.

“At White Bay 6, security and safety underpin every decision we make,” says Lorraine Yates, General Manager of White Bay 6 Marine Park. “Access control isn’t just about protecting people and property, it’s how we earn trust, lead by example, and support responsible marine operations.”

As a multi-award-winning facility, White Bay 6 is known for professionalism and accountability. “Our clients trust us with one of their most valuable assets – their boat,” Yates adds. “That trust relies on robust systems and high standards for everyone onsite.”

Key Areas of Contractor Management

1. Prequalification and Insurance

Before entering the site, contractors should provide and verify:

• Trade qualifications or licences
• Public liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation
• Marine specific insurance policies

These documents must be stored securely and checked regularly. Expired coverage or unlicensed work can create significant legal liability.

“Some subcontractor policies may restrict the types of vessels they can work on or have inappropriate liability limits, which may result in an underinsurance position and expose the marina’s own insurance in the event of a claim,” explains Schembri. He recommends following the Marina Industries Association’s best practices and engaging with brokers to assess risk.

Transparency is also critical. “Protect your business by discussing your environment with your insurance broker,” says Schembri. “Ensure your subcontractors are appropriately covered. Disclose your subcontractor list to your insurance provider. Vetting new contractors and setting regular insurance check schedules are essential.”

2. Inductions and Site Orientation

All contractors should complete a site-specific induction before work begins. Inductions should cover:

• Emergency procedures
• Restricted zones
• PPE requirements
• Environmental controls
• Behaviour expectations

These must be refreshed regularly and updated if site conditions change.

3. Job-Specific Access Approvals

Contractors should only have access for specific jobs, times and areas. This limits risk, prevents congestion, and ensures accountability. Digital permit systems help streamline approvals and recordkeeping.

Leveraging Digital Systems

Manual logs and paper forms can be time consuming and prone to error. Many marinas and shipyards now use digital systems to:

• Deliver online inductions
• Track insurance expiry
• Log contractor arrivals
• Integrate with gate access
• Manage compliance-based permissions

These tools reduce administrative burden and provide real-time visibility, which is especially beneficial for shipyards managing multiple contractors across complex zones.

Security Beyond the Work Zone

Access control is one part of a broader site security framework. Facilities should also implement:

• Physical barriers – fencing, locked gates, and secure dock access
• CCTV – covering docks, sheds and vehicle entries
• Lighting – especially around high-value areas
• Clear signage – for restricted areas and procedures
• Staff vigilance – encouraging personnel to challenge unknown individuals

Fuel storage and chemical-handling zones must also be secured and included in induction content.

Legal Responsibility and Documentation

Operators of marine facilities have a legal duty of care under workplace health and safety regulations. This includes:

• Ensuring contractors are qualified
• Keeping detailed records of inductions, insurance and access
• Managing high-risk tasks with permits
• Investigating and reporting incidents

These records are critical in the event of an insurance claim, legal inquiry, or compliance inspection.

Creating a Culture of Accountability and Best Practice

At White Bay 6, accountability is part of everyday operations. “It’s your site, your responsibility, and your reputation,” says Yates. “Ask questions of anyone onsite. The more you know, the better equipped you are to manage risk.” She also highlights the need for constant vigilance. “Security and safety procedures can’t sit idle. They must be reviewed, tested, and updated to reflect how your site operates today, not how it worked last year.” These principles should be foundational. “This isn’t about ticking boxes,” Yates concludes. “It’s about how we lead, build trust, and work to set the standard for marine operations in Australia.”

Read the latest issue of the Marina Industries Association’s Waterline magazine here. To find out more information about the MIA visit marinas.net.au

Disclaimer: Content is information only, it is not financial advice and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs.