2025 First Quarter Review – Maritime Progress, Policy Shifts, and Safety Spotlights

by 0 CommentsApril 10, 2025
NMSA March 2025
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By: Zach Walden CSP, NRP

As we close the first quarter of 2025, we reflect on a season of steady, and sometimes surprising, movement across the maritime landscape. From regulatory developments and port electrification to national policy shifts and enforcement crackdowns, the maritime industry continues to evolve in real time. Below, we’ve highlighted several updates that carry weight for maritime safety professionals and waterfront workers alike—because staying informed is a key part of staying safe.

Federal Oversight and Safety Programs Continue to Expand 

OSHA’s National Emphasis Program (NEP) on heat-related hazards remains active in 2025—and now officially extended through April 8, 2026—under Directive Number CPL 03-01-024, effective January 16, 2025. This directive continues OSHA’s targeted enforcement initiative aimed at protecting workers from heat illness and injury in both outdoor and indoor environments. For employers in maritime and terminal operations, this means continued—and increasing—attention to preventative measures like hydration access, shaded rest areas, acclimatization protocols, and training programs.

The extension of the NEP reinforces OSHA’s long-term commitment to environmental hazard mitigation amid rising global temperatures. With many coastal and waterfront operations experiencing early-season heat surges, now is a crucial time to review and reinforce policies and to schedule team-wide training refreshers on recognizing and responding to heat stress symptoms. The directive also encourages employers to conduct proactive heat hazard assessments and use real-time monitoring tools to protect their workforce as temperatures become increasingly higher.

A new report from the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) calls for port authorities to modernize infrastructure and adopt broader risk reduction strategies. The report outlines a need for improved emergency preparedness, climate resilience, and digital security across U.S. ports—a reflection of how safety now spans both the physical and digital domains. For safety managers, this means being ready not only for container yard incidents but also for the cybersecurity threats that could target terminal operating systems or disrupt logistics networks. The GAO has placed increased emphasis on the integration of climate modeling and hazard assessments into long-term infrastructure planning, signaling an evolving expectation of what port preparedness truly looks like.

In a high-profile incident this quarter, the U.S. Coast Guard shut down a cargo terminal in Puerto Rico after discovering violations related to ammonium nitrate storage and handling. The terminal’s operations were halted immediately, highlighting the critical importance of compliance with hazardous materials handling and stowing regulations. Ports handling hazardous cargo should use this moment to reassess their inventory control systems, employee training on chemical handling, and the readiness of their emergency response protocols.

Ports Continue Plugging into the Future

The first quarter saw continued investment in port electrification and energy efficiency projects that signal a growing momentum toward decarbonization. The Port of Long Beach rolled out its first electric Class 8 truck—reducing emissions and marking a turning point in terminal transport. This milestone is especially noteworthy given the heavy-duty demands placed on port drayage fleets, and it demonstrates both technological feasibility and regulatory alignment with state-level emissions goals.

In January 2025, the Port of Savannah’s Ocean Terminal received four new electric ship-to-shore cranes, increasing its fleet to eight Super Post Panamax cranes. These cranes were designed by Finland-based Konecranes and manufactured by a subcontractor in the PRC. The addition of these cranes is part of the Georgia Ports Authority’s ongoing efforts to enhance its infrastructure and capacity. The completion of this project upgrade in 2028 will enable Ocean Terminal to accommodate the largest vessels serving the U.S. East Coast.

Another exciting milestone in Q1 was the arrival of components for Coastal Virginia’s first offshore wind project. This development promises to be a major step forward in maritime energy innovation and green job creation. Not only does offshore wind signal a new era for clean energy, but it also represents a major opportunity for longshore labor, logistics planners, and marine construction firms. Ports positioned near offshore wind installations should be examining their capacity to store, stage, and move oversized components as this sector continues to scale.

Legislative and Political Developments 

Prior to leaving office, the Biden administration unveiled a new council focused on building stronger, more transparent supply chains. Though not maritime-specific, the initiative may influence port operations and domestic shipping strategies. The White House Council on Supply Chain Resilience aims to prevent disruptions like those experienced during the pandemic by encouraging domestic manufacturing, reshoring key industries, and enhancing logistics transparency. For maritime stakeholders, this could translate into increased scrutiny of port congestion, investment in port infrastructure, and tighter collaboration with inland freight corridors.

Lori Chavez-DeRemer Confirmed as U.S. Secretary of Labor 

On March 10, 2025, the U.S. Senate confirmed Lori Chavez-DeRemer as the 30th Secretary of Labor with a vote of 67-32. She was sworn in the following day, March 11, 2025. Chavez-DeRemer, a former U.S. Representative from Oregon’s 5th congressional district and Mayor of Happy Valley, Oregon, brings a background in business administration and local governance to the Department of Labor. Her father was a member of the Teamsters union, and she has previously supported pro-labor legislation, including co-sponsoring the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act during her congressional tenure.

Her confirmation reflects a bipartisan consensus on her qualifications and indicates a potential shift in labor policy focus. Chavez-DeRemer’s leadership is expected to influence labor regulations and initiatives, with implications for various sectors, including the maritime industry. Stakeholders are advised to monitor policy developments from the Department of Labor under her direction.

New Shipbuilding Office Announced 

President Trump announced a plan to launch a White House office focused on shipbuilding, a move signaling interest in revitalizing the U.S. maritime manufacturing base. While still in its conceptual stages, this office could serve as a central policy node for maritime construction subsidies, workforce development programs, and strategic vessel procurement. If realized, the office would aim to expand U.S. shipyard capacity and reduce dependency on foreign-built vessels—a move that would benefit both national security and domestic job creation.

This renewed interest in shipbuilding highlights the growing awareness of maritime industry importance. The operational outlook or funding plans for the new office have yet to be revealed, but safety professionals should stay alert for changes in standards, reporting, or training requirements tied to federally backed ship construction programs.

A Glimpse Inside the NMSA Technical Committee – Why You Should Join Us at the Annual Meeting 

The NMSA Technical Committee (TC) continues to be a driving force for collaboration, safety innovation, and regulatory readiness in the marine cargo handling industry. Our recent meeting brought together safety leaders and subject matter experts from across North America to share insights, tackle shared challenges, and explore new technologies.

Highlights included an address from NMSA Executive Director Carl Bentzel who provided developments from Washington D.C. and high-level updates on regulatory developments, meeting attendees sharing strategies for addressing carbon reduction at terminals, and an in-depth video analysis/discussion on fall protection during lashing operations. Our community also reviewed safety protocols surrounding high wind events, engaged in productive conversations about incident trends, and explored cross-border regulatory comparisons that impact daily operations on the waterfront. We also welcomed demonstrations of cutting-edge rescue platforms designed specifically for the unique challenges of the maritime workplace, reinforcing our shared commitment to innovation that protects lives.

But the value of these meetings goes beyond the agenda. It’s in the open dialogue, the cross-port networking, and the continuous drive to raise the bar on safety. Whether you’re in operations, compliance, labor, or leadership—these gatherings offer something for every stakeholder invested in the future of marine terminal safety. With upcoming meetings planned throughout the year—including our highly anticipated summer session in New Orleans, LA for our Annual Meeting and a December virtual wrap-up—there’s never been a better time to get involved.

Join us at the NMSA Annual Meeting June 24-26 and see for yourself how the Technical Committee is shaping the future of safety on the waterfront!

Looking Ahead 

The first quarter of 2025 has shown us that change in the maritime industry is not only inevitable—it’s accelerating. From heat-related safety mandates and cargo terminal shutdowns to massive infrastructure upgrades and evolving federal leadership, the message is clear: the stakes are higher, the challenges are more complex, and the opportunities are larger than ever before.

As safety professionals, labor advocates, logistics experts, and port operators, it’s our responsibility to remain agile, informed, and proactive. This quarter’s developments remind us that our success hinges on three things: knowing the risks, responding to the changes, and investing in the people who keep this industry moving. Whether it’s staying ahead of environmental hazards, understanding new federal initiatives, or adapting to electrification and offshore energy projects, we must continue to lead with both safety and strategy in mind.

The NMSA Technical Committee will continue to be a hub for that leadership—bringing together voices from every corner of the industry to exchange best practices, raise new concerns, and shape practical solutions. As we move through the rest of the year, your participation will be key. If Q1 is any indication, 2025 will be another landmark year for progress, policy, and partnership on the waterfront.

Let’s face the next quarter not just prepared—but united, informed, and ready to lead. Get your appetite ready for some gumbo, po’boys, and beignets as we hope to see you in New Orleans this June for the NMSA Annual Meeting. Until then, stay safe, stay sharp, and stay connected.

References 

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The views expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and do not represent the opinions or endorsements of any organization or entity. Readers should use their own discretion and consider multiple sources of information when forming their own opinions or making decisions.

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