International Maritime Organization

Subject: Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Personal protective equipment

This circular letter provides World Health Organization (WHO) information and guidance on the safe and effective use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to support decisions on use of PPE to minimize the risks of COVID-19 infection for seafarers, marine personnel, fishing vessel personnel, passengers and others on board ships, as well as shore personnel intending to go on board (such as pilots, port workers, port State control officers, ship’s agents, etc.).

According to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended (MLC, 2006), regulation 4.1, paragraph 1, flag States must ensure that all seafarers on ships that fly their flag are covered by adequate measures for the protection of their health and that they have access to prompt and adequate medical care whilst working on board. Furthermore, regulation 4.3, paragraph 1, provides that States shall ensure that seafarers on ships that fly their flag are provided with occupational health protection and live, work and train on board ship in a safe and hygienic environment.

Use of Personal Protective Equipment

COVID-19 spreads primarily from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth, which are expelled when a person with COVID-19 coughs, sneezes or speaks.

Based on scientific evidence, WHO recommends to keep at least one metre away from others, washing hands regularly with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand rub, and practice respiratory hygiene. WHO experts agree that a risk-based approach to decision-making should be adopted on the use of PPE and masks.

Guidance and Related Resources