Dockside Disaster Service Worker Program
The California Maritime Disaster Service Worker (DSW) Pilot is an innovative resilience initiative designed to bridge the gap between industrial port operations and municipal emergency response. Spearheaded by Anchor Point Community Preparedness, this program formalizes ILWU longshore labor as a vital, surge-capacity asset for post-earthquake recovery and life-safety operations.
By leveraging the foundational principles of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)—coordinated, non-professional emergency response—we have tailored a specialized framework specifically for the high-risk, high-stakes environment of California’s maritime infrastructure.
Potential Program Sponsors:Why the Maritime DSW Program Matters
Ports are the lifeblood of California’s economy, yet they face unique seismic vulnerabilities. In the immediate aftermath of a significant earthquake, the ability to stabilize berth operations and secure heavy cargo is critical to preventing further injury and ensuring the flow of aid.
Our program transforms skilled longshore workers into certified Disaster Service Workers, providing them with the specialized training needed to:
Identify & Mitigate Risks: Conduct rapid assessments of seismic-related vulnerabilities in maritime infrastructure.
Execute Non-Structural Mitigation: Utilize advanced techniques to reduce injuries caused by falling or flying objects, such as securing heavy cargo and stabilizing industrial cranes.
Integrate with Local Government: Act as a formal response asset within City Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs), ensuring a seamless transition from daily labor to disaster response.
Core Components
Seismic Gap Analysis: We conduct a comprehensive review of Port-City EOPs to identify exactly where maritime labor can best support recovery.
Specialized Curriculum: Participants undergo a “Longshore-Maritime Seismic Safety" course that merges standard CERT training with industrial maritime safety protocols.
Pilot Implementation: We are aim to train an inaugural cohort of ILWU workers to create a scalable, measurable model for statewide expansion in 2027.
Partners in Resilience
With this potential funding from the FY26 NEHRP (National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program) and Cal OES, this pilot moves beyond theoretical planning into active, tangible implementation. Our goal is to ensure that when the "Big One" hits, California ports have a robust, uniquely trained workforce ready to protect both lives and the maritime supply chain.
If you have questions about this project, contact Steward Council Co-Secretary Brianna Horton (🔌 | 3012) at: Admin@HackTheHallX.org.
