Damen Shiprepair Harbour & Voyage (DSHV), part of Damen Shiprepair & Conversion, has created a 24/7 Covid-19 Disinfection Service for ships.

DSHV aims to maintain the service during the Covid-19 pandemic and hopes to extend the work to meet current demands.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the cabin, accommodation and the rest of the ship need to be disinfected when there is a confirmed case of Covid-19 on the ship.

DSHV MD Jozeph WD Quak said: “As with a lot of viruses, the coronavirus can be spread more easily onboard a ship. People are in close proximity to each other on a vessel and self-isolation can be more difficult in such a limited space.

“The disease can be spread not only with coughing and sneezing, but also touching areas that have been infected. Therefore, hygiene and disinfection are essential. With this service, we are looking to assist our clients through this challenging time.”

Based on the WHO-approved methods, the service uses stabilised hydrogen peroxide, which is said to be colourless and odourless and does not damage interior or surfaces.

All surfaces on the vessel will be disinfected and an approved risk assessment will be carried out before the operation begins.

DSHV has carried out the process in the cruise sector and expects that this can be offered to any vessel type.

To ensure the safety of the personnel and communities, DHSV has implemented safety measures, which adhere to the latest rules and regulations.

Personnel is asked to maintain a minimum 1.5m distance for social distancing. They also have to wear high-quality personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintain strict hygiene requirements.

Last month, DSHV partnered with Verolme Special Equipment for the ‘provision of services’ to exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) or marine scrubbers.