Additional precautionary measures have been announced by the Singapore Ministry of Health (MOH), in view of the heightened risk of imported COVID-19 cases.
From 23 March 2020, all short-term visitors, from anywhere in the world, will not be allowed to enter or transit through Singapore. MPA will apply these additional precautionary measures to all vessels calling at the Port of Singapore.
The Port of Singapore remains open for cargo operations and marine services, including shipyard repairs.
With the application of the additional precautionary measures, crew and passengers on short-term visits will not be allowed to disembark in Singapore for the time being. Crew change in Singapore is also disallowed for the time being.
Singapore has ceased port calls for all cruise vessels since 13 March 2020.
Precautionary testing for symptomatic Singapore Residents and Long Term Pass Holders at regional ferry terminals
All Singapore Residents and Long Term Pass Holders entering Singapore who exhibit fever and/or other symptoms of respiratory illness may be required to undergo a COVID-19 swab test at the regional ferry terminals, regardless of travel history. They will be issued a 14-day Stay Home Notice upon arrival.
The National Environment Agency’s (NEA) Port Health requires all vessels arriving at Singapore to submit the Maritime Declaration of Health Form.
MPA also urges all crew members onboard to have their temperature taken twice daily. There are also guidelines on how to isolate unwell crew and passengers. If any of their crew or passengers are unwell, they should report the incident to the Marine Safety Control Centre.
MPA has also issued health advisories for operators, owners, masters and persons in-charge and crew of harbor and pleasure craft, and for managers/supervisors of terminal operators, agents, contractors and service providers.
MPA reminds these persons to take note of the health advisories and bring them to the attention of staff who work on board ships.
Advice for Singapore-Registered Vessels
Ship owners, managers, operators, agents and masters of Singapore-registered ships should monitor the health of their crew closely. Masters of Singapore-registered vessels are required to report to their company, MPA and destination port authorities, if their crew are unwell, experience respiratory symptoms or feel feverish. They should also make the necessary arrangements to seek medical attention.
Temperature Screening at Ferry Terminals
Since 08 February 2020, ferry terminal operators have implemented centralised outbound temperature screening for departing passengers. This is an additional precautionary measure by the terminal operators to ensure the health and safety of all passengers and crew.
Cleaning and Disinfection
Ferry operators have also stepped up their cleaning and disinfection regime on board the ferries, especially in common or public areas, to help prevent the widespread transmission of COVID-19.
Measures by Port Terminal Operators
PSA and Jurong Port are also taking precautionary measures for employees returning to Singapore. Some of these measures include allowing eligible staff to telecommute and providing frontline staff with paid Leave of Absence where they are unable to work remotely.
