News: UK Government issues COVID-19 Shipping and Sea Ports Guidance

On 16 March 2020 the UK government issued guidance to assist ships (including cargo vessels, ferries and cruise ships) and sea ports in providing advice to staff on addressing COVID-19 on ships and in sea ports.

The main messages of the guidance are:

• Before boarding the ship, crew and passengers should be asked if they have a new, continuous cough or a high temperature.
• If someone becomes unwell with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature, they should be sent home or to their cabin.
• Everyone should be reminded to wash their hands for 20 seconds more frequently than normal.
• Crew and passengers should be given clear instructions on what to do if they develop symptoms and how and to whom they should report this.
• The Master of the Ship should notify the Port Health Authority about any suspected cases of COVID-19 as soon as possible, who will then inform the local Health Protection Team.
• Appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning of surfaces that a person with symptoms has come into contact with are key measures to stop the spread of the virus.

The full guidance can be found here. 

Members may contact their club contact in case they need any assistance.

Categories: COVID-19, Loss Prevention