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ICS issues new protocols to mitigate COVID-19 risks on ships

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) together with the International Maritime Health Association and tanker owners’ body Intertanko have drawn up new protocols designed to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 cases on board ships.

Bob Jaques

August 26, 2020

1 Min Read
Credit: Seatrade Cruise News

ICS described the protocols as an effective tool that aims to safeguard the health of seafarers, passengers and the general public alike, and ensure the safe operation of maritime trade.

Build upon May's guidance

The new measures build on previous health guidance issued by the shipowners’ body in May, an update deemed necessary because of 'concerns over COVID-19 infections on board ships, due to a small minority failing to adhere to industry guidance,' ICS said.

The latest protocols advise on how seafarers can embark and disembark ships safely, even in the event of cases of infection aboard, and contain what are described as two useful instruments for ship operators.

PCR testing procedures

One is a flowchart to help identify the process to follow when managing a larger number of suspected cases on vessels and the other is a PCR testing procedures matrix to help identify what to do and when prior to boarding and if a suspect case is identified on ships.

The new protocols are designed to reassure governments that 'crew change and seaborne trade pose limited health risks,' ICS concluded  — a matter of some urgency given the current humanitarian crisis where, it pointed out, 'over a quarter of a million seafarers are stranded at sea, awaiting repatriation.'

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coronavirus

About the Author

Bob Jaques

Bob Jaques has over 20 years' experience as a maritime journalist and moderator of shipping conferences.

Before that he was based in Geneva and wrote for a number of international business and consumer titles, in the fields of aerospace, media and travel.

 

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