Forman - Cold Store

JOB PURPOSE

To supervise and coordinate daily yard operations for the Cold Store area, ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely movement, staging, and handling of temperature-controlled cargo. The Yard Foreman – Cold Store is responsible for directing laborers, forklift operators, and drivers, monitoring workflow, enforcing safety and hygiene standards, and supporting inspection and loading/unloading activities in alignment with cargo examination requirements.

• Supervise and control all yard activities in the Cold Store area, including cargo receiving, staging, segregation, and dispatch.
• Assign and monitor tasks for laborers, forklift operators, and equipment drivers according to operational priorities.
• Coordinate the movement of refrigerated containers (reefers), pallets, and temperature-sensitive cargo between cold storage, inspection zones, and loading bays.
• Ensure efficient yard utilization, proper cargo placement, and smooth traffic flow within the cold store and adjacent examination zones.
• Verify cargo identification, labeling, and documentation before and after movement or examination.
• Monitor the sequence of loading/unloading activities to maintain cargo integrity and prevent delays.
• Coordinate with the Superintendent and Control Room for work order updates and task scheduling.
• Ensure all cargo is handled according to cold chain requirements and temperature standards.
• Monitor reefer plug-in status, temperature readings, and equipment alarms in coordination with maintenance or technical teams.
• Supervise the opening, inspection, and resealing of cold cargo in accordance with customs or inspection instructions.
• Ensure that perishable or temperature-controlled cargo is not exposed to ambient conditions beyond allowable limits.
• Maintain strict hygiene and cleanliness standards across yard and staging areas.
• Enforce strict adherence to all safety policies, PPE use, and cold area exposure precautions.
• Conduct regular toolbox talks and safety briefings for yard staff.
• Ensure all forklift and vehicle operations comply with speed limits, designated routes, and yard safety protocols.
• Report and investigate any accidents, near-misses, or unsafe conditions immediately to the Superintendent.
• Ensure all operations comply with HSE, food safety (HACCP), and cargo examination regulations.
• Direct and supervise yard laborers and equipment operators to ensure productivity and discipline.
• Provide on-the-job guidance and training to new or temporary staff on safe and correct cargo handling methods.
• Evaluate manpower performance and provide feedback to the Superintendent or Shift Supervisor.
• Coordinate manpower deployment based on workload, ensuring coverage during peak hours or urgent operations.
• Foster teamwork and communication among the yard crew for smooth daily operations.
• Oversee the proper use of forklifts, pallet jacks, and other handling equipment in the cold store yard.
• Conduct routine visual checks of equipment before use and report any damages or malfunctions.
• Coordinate with the Maintenance or Transport team for repairs, servicing, and equipment allocation.
• Ensure that yard and docking areas are organized, free from obstructions, and safe for movement.
• Support the Superintendent in monitoring facility conditions (floors, lighting, drainage, insulation) and reporting defects.
• Record daily yard activities, including cargo movements, manpower assignments, and incidents.
• Verify task completion through the operational system or supervisor confirmation.
• Maintain daily logs of reefer status, temperature readings, and handling times when applicable.
• Submit shift reports to the Superintendent detailing work progress, delays, and manpower utilization.

• High school diploma or technical certificate in logistics, warehouse operations, or equivalent.
• Minimum 4–6 years of experience in cargo, warehouse, or cold storage operations, including 2 years in a supervisory or foreman role.
• Strong knowledge of yard operations, cargo examination procedures, and cold chain handling standards.
• Familiarity with reefer container operations, temperature monitoring, and related systems.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and PPE use for cold environments.
• Basic computer skills and ability to read work orders and cargo documentation.
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational abilities.
• Physically fit to work in cold environments and perform supervisory duties on the ground.