ICS issues new shipping industry guidelines for coronavirus

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has given the global shipping sector with brand new guidance to help counter the transmission of the coronavirus.

The final 22-page paper was developed in cooperation with leading international bodies including:

-The World Health Organization (WHO)
-The International Maritime Organization (IMO)
-The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)
-The International Maritime Health Association (IMHA)

Among a range of measures outlined in the guide, the report provides recommendations on handling Port Entry Controls, including realistic protections against COVID-19 for seafarers, including an epidemic management plan.

The guide also contains flyers that can be reproduced and put on board ships as well as a Sample Pre-Boarding Passenger Locator Form and a WHO COVID-19 Database of Aid and Logistics Availability.

The guidance report was intended to support all classes of ships traveling in international waters with the most up-to-date and relevant information needed to curtail the Coronavirus' spread.

The International Maritime Organisation, as an appendix to an IMO circular note, will publish the ICS guidelines on COVID-19, and other maritime bodies will also be urged to transmit the guideline and insure that it achieves the widest possible circulation.

Maritime Business World