São Joaquim Terminal ordered to implement fire safety measures

The Labor Court has ordered Internacional Travessias Salvador S. A. to implement urgent fire safety measures at the São Joaquim Terminal in Salvador, which operates the Ferry-Boat system. The decision follows a public civil action by the Labor Public Ministry (MPT) after inspections by the MPT and the Bahia Fire Department identified significant safety failures.

Key irregularities include the absence of a Fire Department Inspection Certificate (AVCB), lack of an approved fire and panic safety project, and deficiencies in emergency exits, signaling, and lighting. The inspections also noted a lack of fire brigades and essential equipment such as extinguishers, hydrants, smoke sensors, and foam combat systems. The presence of fuel storage tanks at the terminal was highlighted as an additional risk factor.

The court established a staggered timeline for compliance: emergency signaling and the formation of a fire brigade must be addressed within 30 days; a technical safety project must be presented within 60 days; and other structural improvements must be completed within 120 days. Failure to comply may result in daily fines of R$ 10,000 per obligation, with an initial limit of R$ 1 million. Responsibility for these measures and potential fines is shared between the company and its managing partners.