Subject: Coronavirus (COVID-19) – COVID-19 guidelines for ensuring a safe shipboard interface between ship and shore-based personnel

The Secretary-General is aware that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has led to issues relating to the shipboard interface between ship and shore-based personnel during port calls. Shipping is fundamental to preserving global supply chains, and it is essential that all parties in the ship-port interface keep all personnel in the safest possible conditions at all times, without subjecting anyone to undue risk, regardless of whether they are part of the ship’s personnel or shore-based workers boarding for a limited time.

The guidance aims to address the principal concerns and expectations of ship’s crews and shore-based personnel through the implementation of appropriate measures.

Monitoring and Communication

Within 14 days following a visit to a ship, if any shore-based person who was on board or any member of the ship’s crew begins to experience COVID-19 symptoms, there is a moral duty to contact those who may have been infected as a result and provide such information. This communication is essential for the sector to act in an appropriate and responsible manner to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Conclusion on the ship-port interface

In order to safely manage port calls, it is the responsibility of all parties to:

• Communicate before the port call.
• Be receptive to each other’s requirements for managing the risk of spread.
• Be flexible and pragmatic in resolving any differences in expectations.

Note: Reference is made to the circular “COVID-19 – ICS Guidance for Ship Operators for the Protection of the Health of Seafarers” (Circular No. 4204/Add.4).