ICS’ new document offers advice on hygiene measures for seafarers on ships. Credit: Peter H / Pixabay.

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Read about the effect of coronavirus (Covid-19) on cruise ships.

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has issued new coronavirus (Covid-19) guidance for the shipping industry to prevent the spread of the virus.

ICS has issued the document in collaboration with international bodies, including 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 document offers advice on managing port entry restrictions and provides practical protective measures against Covid-19 for seafarers.

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The guidance also includes an outbreak management plan and a number of associated topics, including pre-boarding screening, education and suspected cases action plan.

In addition, the document offers advice on hygiene measures for ship seafarers, high-risk exposure, case handling, isolation, cleaning, disinfection and waste management.

It also includes posters that can be printed out, a sample pre-boarding passenger locator form and Covid-19 support and logistics supply list.

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% 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.”

The guidance document will be distributed to seafarers through ICS’ network of national member associations and can be downloaded from its website.

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