River rescue pontoon in Limerick city shortlisted for national award

A RIVER rescue pontoon in Limerick has been shortlisted for a national award in recognition of “robust" safety structures."

Limerick City and County Council has been shortlisted for the Health and Safety Excellence Awards 2023.

Under the Public Sector category, The Council’s Fire Service River Rescue Pontoon Project was nominated for an award recognising outstanding health and safety.

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Launched in 2020, the Health and Safety Excellence Awards recognise and reward the most outstanding health and safety achievements in Ireland and the teams that drive them.

Limerick City and County Council’s nominated project comprises a river rescue pontoon, access gantry, and floating dock, all of which were installed as an enhancement of the Fire Service’s existing facilities at Steamboat Quay.

The new river rescue pontoon has improved the safety and ergonomics of how the Fire Service deploys personnel and resources to river rescues, and it features advanced energy-efficient lighting for visibility during night operations. Fire Service personnel can access the Fireswift rescue boat even more quickly, which helps reduce the response time to river rescue incidents -  an environment in which even seconds matter.

With a multidisciplinary team effort, the project puts emphasis on value for money and end users' needs. The project succeeded thanks to the health and safety processes and safety management procedures in Limerick Fire and Rescue Service and Limerick City and County Council.

Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Francis Foley, said: “This award recognises the hard work and dedication of our employees and management in working together to maintain excellence in health and safety at work. I would like to congratulate everyone involved on this nomination.”

Chief Fire Officer, Michael Ryan, said: “The new river rescue pontoon is a result of robust and engaged health and safety structures within the Fire Service. The project is a splendid example of teamwork and how much can be achieved when people share a common goal. It represents value for money and a prudent use of resources.”

The awards ceremony will take place this Wednesday, March 29 at The Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dublin.