HIMA Smart Safety System Powers Europe’s First Autonomous PortJun 09, 2025
Revolutionizing Port Operations with AI-Driven Safety Europe’s first fully autonomous port in Rotterdam has achieved a major milestone by integrating HIMA cutting-edge smart safety system. The technology combines SIL 3-certified safety controllers with AI-powered risk assessment tools, enabling real-time hazard detection for unmanned cargo handling. Unlike traditional ports relying on manual oversight, this system uses predictive algorithms to prevent collisions and equipment failures before they occur. Initial results show a 60% reduction in safety incidents compared to conventional ports.
Seamless Integration of Safety and Automation The deployment merges HIMA HIPROTECT® safety platform with the port’s autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) and robotic cranes. Laser scanners and IoT sensors feed data into HIMA’s safety PLCs, which execute split-second decisions—like emergency stops if workers enter restricted zones. Notably, the system’s 50ms response time outperforms human operators, while its modular design allows scalability across the 12km² port area. Siemens and ABB collaborated on the automation layer, with HIMA ensuring compliance with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC.
Cybersecurity as a Core Safety Feature With connectivity comes risk, so HIMA embedded its cyber-safe technology to protect against threats. The system employs hardware-enforced network segmentation, blocking unauthorized access to safety-critical functions. Regular penetration testing by TÜV Rheinland confirmed its resilience to attacks like PLC code manipulation. This dual focus on functional and cyber safety sets a new benchmark for Industry 4.0 ports.
Sustainability Gains Through Intelligent Safety Beyond accident prevention, the system optimizes energy use. By dynamically adjusting equipment speed based on real-time risk analysis, it reduces diesel consumption in AGVs by 15%. Hydrogen-powered cranes further leverage HIMA’s safety protocols to manage flammable gas risks. The port estimates annual CO₂ savings of 8,000 metric tons—equivalent to taking 1,700 cars off the road.
Global Implications for the Maritime Industry Rotterdam’s success has sparked interest from Singapore to Los Angeles. HIMA CTO notes that 30+ ports are evaluating similar deployments, with standardized interfaces easing adoption. The model proves that automation and safety aren’t trade-offs but synergies—a lesson transferable to mines, factories, and smart cities.
Conclusion This pioneering project redefines industrial safety for the autonomous era. By fusing AI, cybersecurity, and SIL 3 reliability, HIMA helps ports operate safer, cleaner, and more efficiently. As the maritime sector modernizes, such integrated safety solutions will become the anchor of progress.
