Dock

Types according to their function

Each type of dock serves a specific function and is designed to meet the particular needs of its intended use, whether commercial, recreational, or otherwise.

• Loading and unloading dock : It is specifically designed to facilitate the loading and unloading of goods from ships to shore and vice versa. It is usually equipped with cranes, forklifts or other specialized machinery to handle efficient transportation. Loading and unloading docks are usually located in commercial ports and cargo terminals where import and export activities take place;
• passenger dock : intended to facilitate the embarkation and disembarkation of passengers from ferries, ferries , cruise ships or other types of people-transport vessels. These docks usually have waiting areas, security checkpoints and other facilities to serve people while they wait their turn;
• sports dock – designed to service recreational and sports boats, such as yachts, sailboats , motorboats, and other types of boats used for leisure and recreation purposes. These docks can vary in size and capacity, from small and private to large marinas with complete facilities, including moorings, fuel supply services, toilet facilities and recreation areas for boaters;
• fishing pier : created to facilitate fishing activity from the coast or maritime structures. These piers are often equipped with designated areas for anglers, such as fishing platforms, fish cleaning stations, and often feature lighting for night fishing. They may also include bait shops, equipment rentals, and other amenities for anglers.

Types according to their structure

Each type of dock has its own characteristics and advantages, and the choice of the type of structure will depend on factors such as the maritime environment, the purpose of the dock and the resources available for its construction.

Floating dock – Built on floating structures, such as pontoons or floating platforms. It is anchored to the seabed or the coast using piles or fixing cables. It is flexible and adapts to water level fluctuations, making it ideal for areas with steep tides or seasonal changes in water level. Floating docks are common in marinas and any marina;
fixed dock : built on piles or pillars that are firmly fixed to the seabed. The deck can be made of wood, concrete, or other sturdy materials. Fixed docks are more stable than floating docks and are suitable for areas where the water level remains relatively constant. They are common in every commercial port and loading dock;
platform dock – simple structure consisting of a raised platform extending from the shore into the water. It is supported by piles or pillars and can be floating or fixed. Platform docks are primarily used for recreational activities, such as fishing, swimming, or simply strolling along the water;
crane dock – equipped with cranes or other specialized machinery to load and unload goods from ships. It usually has a robust structure and is designed to withstand heavy loads. Crane docks are common in commercial ports and cargo terminals;
dock : protected area within a port or marina that offers shelter to vessels. It is surrounded by walls or docks and provides a safe space for mooring boats. Docks can be used for temporary parking of vessels, ship repair and maintenance, or as permanent mooring areas for recreational or commercial vessels;
• breakwater : structure constructed of rocks or other resistant materials to protect the coast or harbor from wave action and erosion. It can be in the form of a dam or wall and extends towards the sea from the coast. In addition to providing protection from the forces of the sea, jetties can also serve as walking or fishing areas for visitors.

Control and supervision

Control and supervision tasks at docks are essential to ensure safety, compliance with regulations and the efficient flow of goods and people between the ocean and land.

Customs plays a crucial role at docks, where port inspection is carried out to verify compliance with customs and tax regulations. This includes verification of import and export documentation, assessment of tariffs, and detection of prohibited or restricted goods. Additionally, at international docks, border controls are carried out to ensure compliance with immigration and port security laws.

The docks are subject to strict safety regulations to protect both the facilities and the people who work there and those who use the services. This includes measures to prevent workplace accidents, fires, spills of hazardous substances and other emergencies. Regular port security inspection, staff training in security procedures and compliance with international regulations such as the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS) are carried out.

Access control systems are also implemented to regulate who can enter port facilities and to which specific areas. This may include the use of identification cards, biometric checks and closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance. Additionally, security patrols are carried out to detect suspicious activities or unauthorized intruders.

In summary, dock control and supervision tasks encompass a wide range of activities aimed at ensuring safety, compliance with regulations and the efficient operation of port operations. Cooperation between various authorities and agencies is essential to achieve these objectives and maintain the integrity and effectiveness of ports .