The International Chamber of Shipping has produced new guidance for ship operators and crew in collaboration with the World Health Organization, the International Maritime Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA).
Included in the advisory document are measures to be taken managing port entry restrictions, personal protective measures against the virus for seafarers, which includes a management plan for when an outbreak of the disease occurs.
“The guidance document also provides information around important topics including pre-boarding screening, education and what to do in suspected cases of infection,” said an ICS statement.
Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping said: “With no vaccine currently available to tackle the Coronavirus, all industries and governments must take appropriate steps to contain the spread. Shipping is responsible for 90% of global trade and recognises its responsibility in helping tackle this global health issue whilst ensuring that the wheels of global trade continue to turn.”
He went on to say, “We are, however, conscious of the fluid nature of the situation, and will continue to work with international bodies to ensure our guidance is in line with the most up to date developments.”
The document will be distributed to seafarers through the ICS’s network of national member associations, but can also be downloaded, free of charge, from the ICS website at www.ics-shipping.org.
