Subject: Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Recommendations for Governments and relevant national authorities to facilitate the movement of offshore energy sector personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic

Following Circular No. 4204/Add.6, which addresses the need to facilitate the movement of seafarers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Secretary-General has received a set of recommendations for Governments and relevant national authorities to facilitate the movement of offshore energy sector personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

These were drafted by the global industry associations: IADC, IOGP, and IMCA, together with the International Association of Geophysical Contractors (IAGC) and the International Support Vessel Owners’ Association (ISOA).

Member States and international organizations are invited to make use of these recommendations and disseminate them to all relevant stakeholders.

ANNEX: RECOMMENDATIONS TO FACILITATE THE MOVEMENT OF OFFSHORE ENERGY SECTOR PERSONNEL

The offshore energy sector (oil, gas, electricity, renewables) is critical to the global economy. Its workforce includes seafarers, technicians, engineers, and industrial personnel. A practical and pragmatic approach is required for crew changes, resupply operations, and certification.

Recommendations to Governments:

1. Designation: Designate offshore energy sector personnel, regardless of nationality, as “essential workers” providing essential services.
2. Exemptions: Grant the necessary exemptions from national travel or movement restrictions to facilitate transit to or from their assigned duty stations or offshore installations.
3. Documentation: Accept official documents (seafarer’s discharge books, employment agreements, letters of appointment) as valid proof of their status as essential workers.
4. Transit: Permit personnel to transit through their territory (airports, heliports, ports) for crew changes and repatriation.
5. Protocols: Implement appropriate approval and screening protocols for the transit of personnel.
6. Protection: Provide information on basic COVID-19 protective measures, based on guidance from the WHO.

Additional References

• Circular No. 4204/Add.1 (COVID-19 – Implementation and enforcement of relevant IMO instruments).
• Circular No. 4204/Add.6 (Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Preliminary list of recommendations to Governments and relevant national authorities on the facilitation of maritime trade).