THE International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has issued new guidance for the global shipping industry to help combat the spread of the coronavirus and keep the maritime community safe at sea.
This 22-page document has been produced in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), and the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA).
The guidance document contains advice on managing port entry restrictions, offers protective measures against coronavirus for seafarers, including an outbreak management plan.
It also provides information concerning port entry restrictions and pre-boarding screening, and advice on what to do in suspected cases of infection. There are also tips on hygiene measures for seafarers onboard vessels, managing high risk exposure, case handling, isolation and cleaning, disinfection and waste management.
Speaking at a meeting with the IMO to discuss the ongoing challenges facing the sector, International Chamber of Shipping secretary general Guy Platten said: 'With no vaccine currently available to tackle the coronavirus, all industries and governments must take appropriate steps to contain the spread.
'Shipping is responsible for 90 per cent of global trade and recognises its responsibility in helping tackle this global health issue whilst ensuring that the wheels of global trade continue to turn.
'This document is the result of careful and considered collaboration with international partners. It is intended to be comprehensive, but also easy to understand and implement. Providing shipowners and operators who are dealing with the sharp end of the crisis with the reassurance and guidance needed to continue to carry out their operations.'
WORLD SHIPPING
This 22-page document has been produced in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), and the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA).
The guidance document contains advice on managing port entry restrictions, offers protective measures against coronavirus for seafarers, including an outbreak management plan.
It also provides information concerning port entry restrictions and pre-boarding screening, and advice on what to do in suspected cases of infection. There are also tips on hygiene measures for seafarers onboard vessels, managing high risk exposure, case handling, isolation and cleaning, disinfection and waste management.
Speaking at a meeting with the IMO to discuss the ongoing challenges facing the sector, International Chamber of Shipping secretary general Guy Platten said: 'With no vaccine currently available to tackle the coronavirus, all industries and governments must take appropriate steps to contain the spread.
'Shipping is responsible for 90 per cent of global trade and recognises its responsibility in helping tackle this global health issue whilst ensuring that the wheels of global trade continue to turn.
'This document is the result of careful and considered collaboration with international partners. It is intended to be comprehensive, but also easy to understand and implement. Providing shipowners and operators who are dealing with the sharp end of the crisis with the reassurance and guidance needed to continue to carry out their operations.'
WORLD SHIPPING