During the COVID-19 pandemic, more than ever maintaining a good housekeeping onboard can help prevent the virus spread. In view of this, the American P&I Club reminds key tips which are important to follow in general for a safe workplace onboard a vessel.
Liberia provided guidance, in the form of Questions and Answers, to help Shipowners, Operators, Masters and Recognized Organizations that may be experiencing difficulty in conducting operations, due to the new coronavirus.
The Maritime Union of Australia recently reported a failure in implementing adequate checks for the coronavirus infections on vessels entering Australian ports. At the moment, six people reported to have been infected by the virus in Australia.
The Republic of Marshall Islands issued a Notice informing about the requirements of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG Code), concerning their decision on allowing 200 bar oxygen cylinders to be replaced with those of an equivalent capacity.
Inert gas is an asphyxiant due to the low oxygen content and contains low oxygen levels for life support, CO2, CO, NOx, SOx and traces of other substances. In addition, some of its components (e.g. carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, etc.) are toxic. Thus, all personnel onboard need to be aware of potential hazards.
APM Terminals collaborated with non-profit group TwoBillionEyes Foundation to offer free eye tests and corrective glasses for truck drivers. The move seeks to create new employment opportunities and improves terminals’ cargo shipping. As explained, truck drivers’ unclear vision affects safety of the people and the efficient operation of the terminals.
The Standard P&I Club informed of a recent personal injury incident after a crew member suffered severe burns to his right leg when a spare e-cigarette battery carried in his coverall overheated & exploded. The short circuit was mostly attributed to the keys carried in the same pocket.
The new code wants to address the many changes in the industry, including the use of robotic systems, over the last 43 years since an earlier code was adopted by the ILO. It emphasizes on a preventive approach based on occupational safety and health (OSH) management systems, management of change and safe work plans.
UK MCA released an updated version of the ‘Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers’ in late December 2017. The amendments advise on improving health and safety of seafarers primarily on board UK registered ships.
