Westport's Security & Fire unit was ranked "Regional Training Center for Auxiliary Police" when 7 of the 20 AP constable graduates who passed out last Monday were from other ports in the region. The intensive two-month training program included all aspects of port security including crime scene investigation, supervision of auxiliary police, port by-laws and enforcement requirements.

Tuan Haji Mahat, Head of the Security & Fire department of Westport said the terminal had to date trained more than 150 AP (auxiliray police) constables of which 35 were from ports in the region.

He added that the training program at Westport was reputed to offer trainees exposure to real life port environment. This means hands on training on security facilities available at the port such as hi-tech e-security facilities like the CCTV system used to track all activities in the port grounds and the MSDS system (Material Safety Data Sheet) which outlines DG cargo specifications, Cargo recognition methods and Hazmat rescue plans.

Security procedures for the various categories of cargo are also systematically presented to the trainees over a period of 8 weeks at the scene of cargo handling. These include security measures that need to be adhered to for safe containers handling, dry bulk cargo, break bulk cargo, liquid bulk and dangerous cargo processes.

Specialist Trainers

Dedicated professional trainers are assigned to instruct on fire fighting techniques, fire rescue methods which include the 'flying fox' drills and on the spot first aid steps. Dangerous cargo handling, safety enforcement as well as preventive security and safety methods are also part of the program.

The training centre together with the Selangor Police Contingent has also embarked on short courses covering security, fire & safety procedures. In April this year, the unit jointly completed a two month program on Crime Scene investigation and is preparing for another joint seminar in January next year.

The Westport Auxiliary Training Unit was set up in 1996 and has to date trained more than 120 of Westport's security force have been deployed in key positions in Westport.