In an updated version of ICS practical guide with regards to COVID-19 protection measures for crew onboard, it is highlighted that shipping companies should develop plans and procedures to address the risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic to the health of seafarers and the safety of their ship operations.
Under the ISM Code, ship operators are required to assess all identified risks to their ships and personnel and establish appropriate safeguards. Whilst maritime occupational safety and health measures on board ships, including various plans and procedures, may already be set out in their safety management system (SMS), ship operators may identify a need to amend or revise certain measures in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Shipboard measures to respond to the risks associated with COVID-19 may cover the following:
Information about COVID-19
- Symptoms and incubation period;
- Transmission;
- Personal protection;
- Infection prevention;
- Testing and treatment; and
- Awareness and training.
Shipboard measures to address risks associated with COVID-19
- Measures to protect health and prevent infection;
- Monitoring and screening
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Testing and assessment
- Shipboard self-distancing (SSD)
- Cleaning and disinfection
- Measures to manage risks during embarkation;
- Measures to manage risks during disembarkation; and
- Measures to manage risks associated with the ship/shore interface.
Managing an outbreak of COVID-19 on board ship
- Actions required if any person on board displays symptoms of COVID-19;
- Definition of a possible case of COVID-19;
- Identification of close contacts and contact tracing;
- Measures to limit exposure to other persons on board ship;
- Isolation of possible cases of COVID-19;
- Caring for possible cases of COVID-19;
- Disembarkation of possible cases of COVID-19; and
- Cleaning and disinfection of the ship.
