In light of the COVID-19 crisis, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) launched a new circular concerning operators of harbour craft and pleasure craft, and vessels in port.
Singapore’s Ministry of Health highlights that
The Taskforce will now make the wearing of masks mandatory for anyone leaving their home. Safe distancing measures for workplaces that continue to operate will also be enhanced.
Specifically, it is advised that every individual must wear a mask when not in his or her ordinary place of residence. However, they do not to wear the mask when carrying out, in the course of employment, an activity that requires that no mask may be worn or that the mask must be removed to carry out that activity.
Moreover, only essential service providers are permitted to operate.
There are also requirements on the occupier of permitted premises, i.e. premises where an essential service provider ordinarily carries on its business or work, such as taking body temperature and contact details of individuals entering the permitted premises.
For those not wearing a mask when going outside, it is noted that “first-time offenders will be issued composition offers of $300, and repeat offenders will face higher fines or prosecution in court for egregious cases.”
To learn more about the temporary measures click herebelow
It should be reminded that recently the MPA Singapore collaborated with Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA) and took a pragmatic approach concerning seafarers’ certification and advised how can seafarers acquire their certificates.
Also, in efforts to protect those working in the maritime sector, MPA Singapore joined forces with PSA Singapore, Keppel Offshore & Marine, Bibby Maritime Limited and The Ascott Limited, to launch two floating accommodations to host foreign workers.
