The CAA require there to be one person who is responsible for the safety of the entire turnaround. In the days of manual loadsheets and 'Red Caps' which I can remember all too well, this function could be easily identified. However, with the advent of automated loadsheets etc many airlines/Handling Agents refocused this role to be 'passenger-facing' i.e. the dispatcher spends most of their time up in the gateroom dealing with pax issues. This has left a gaping hole downstairs, in my view, possibly contributing to the many silly accidents and incidents that happen on the Apron.
One major operator at LGW has recently introduced a turnaround co-ordinator. The ones I've had the pleasure to meet are very focused on Apron safety etc and I hope the other operators follow suit.
Cheers,
TheOddOne