The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has issued new guidance for the global shipping industry to help combat the spread of the coronavirus. Among other things, the document advises on managing port entry restrictions and offers practical protective measures for seafarers, including an outbreak management plan.
The 22-page document has been produced in collaboration with prominent international bodies. These include the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA).
‘Shipping is responsible for ninety per cent 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,’ says Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping.
Guidance contents
In addition to port entry restrictions, the document provides information on pre-boarding screening, education and what to do in suspected cases of infection. There is also straightforward advice on hygiene measures for seafarers on ships, managing high risk exposure, case handling, isolation and cleaning, disinfection and waste management.
The guidance also comes with posters (see one below) which can be printed out and placed onboard as well as a sample pre-boarding passenger locator form and a WHO COVID-19 Support and Logistics Supplies List.
‘This document in the result of careful and considered collaboration with international partners. It is intended to be comprehensive, but also easy to understand and implement. Providing shipowners and operators who are dealing with the sharp end of the crisis with the reassurance and guidance needed to continue to carry out their operations,’ adds Platten.
Circulation
It will be distributed to seafarers through the ICS’ network of national member associations, is free to download from the ICS website www.ics-shipping.org and will be shared via social media. The International Maritime Organization will circulate the ICS guidance on COVID-19 as an annex to an IMO circular letter.
