COVID-19 HANDBOOK AND OUTBREAK MANAGEMENT PLAN

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COVID-19 HANDBOOK AND OUTBREAK MANAGEMENT PLAN

Ship’s Name : Voyage Symphony

IMO Number :

Note: This Covid-19 handbook and outbreak management plan provides procedures to be
put in place to prepare FWMS ships for ‘ship-shore” interface and to protect our seafarers
from the dangers posed by the new Coronavirus disease (Covid-19). These includes
potential exposure from shore personnel and the actions to be taken in the event of a
suspected case on board. This guidance should be read in conjunction with the
International Chamber of Shipping (ICS)- published Coronavirus (Covid-19) Guidance for
Ship Operators for the Protection of the Health of Seafarers, INTERTANKO: Outbreak
management plan, IMO, WHO and Flag State/National Advisories as applicable

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APPROVAL PAGE Page : 2 of 32

APPROVAL

COVID-19 HANDBOOK AND OUTBREAK MANAGEMENT PLAN

Notes:

1. This plan is valid from the issue date.

2. Any review or alteration to this manual is to be carried out as per the system
procedures.
3. Any revisions of this manual will be recorded on the Revision Sheet.

Issued Approved
By: By:

First Wave Marine

Services LLP

Head of Ship Management Team

This publication is the property of FWMS group. No part of this publication is to be

reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means
without the prior permission of Management.

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RECORD OF REVISION Page : 3 of 32

RECORD OF REVISION

No Date Revised Part Revision Description

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents
1. GENERAL INFORMATION........................................................................................................................6

1.1 BASIC PROTECTIVE MEASURES AGAINST COVID-19................................................................................7

1.2 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT......................................................................................................8

2. COVID-19 PPE MATRIX............................................................................................................................9

2.1 COVID-19 KIT ON BOARD......................................................................................................................10

2.2 DISINFECTION AND SANITIZATION........................................................................................................11

3. MANAGING SHIP-EXTERNAL PARTY INTERFACE...................................................................................13

3.1 PRIOR TO CALLING AT PORT.................................................................................................................13

3.2 PRECAUTIONS WITH PILOT ON BOARD.................................................................................................13

3.3 PRECAUTIONS WITH SHORE PERSONNEL BOARDING VESSEL...............................................................14

3.4 PRECAUTIONS DURING MEETING WITH SHORE PERSONNEL................................................................15

3.5 PRECAUTIONS WITH PRIVATE MARITIME SECURITY GUARDS ON BOARD............................................15

3.6 REPAIR AND DRY DOCK OPERATIONS...................................................................................................17

4. CREW CHANGE......................................................................................................................................18

4.1 PLANNING CREW CHANGE....................................................................................................................18

4.2 HANDLING JOINING CREW....................................................................................................................18

4.3 HANDLING SIGN OFF CREW..................................................................................................................19

5. OUTBREAK MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR COVID-19..................................................................................20

5.1 ACTIVATING OUTBREAK MANAGEMENT PLAN.....................................................................................21

5.2 ATTENDING PATIENTS ISOLATED IN CABINS.........................................................................................23

5.3 DEFINITION OF CLOSE CONTACT ON BOARD (HIGH RISK EXPOSURE)...................................................24

5.4 MANAGING CONTACTS/CLOSE CONTACTS...........................................................................................25

5.5 DISPOSAL OF MEDICAL WASTE.............................................................................................................25

5.6 CLEANING AND DISINFECTION..............................................................................................................25

5.7 CLEANING AGENTS AND DISINFECTANTS..............................................................................................26

5.8 PROTECTIVE PERSONAL EQUIPMENT (PPE) TO WEAR WHILE CARRYING OUT CLEANING AND
DISINFECTION WORKS........................................................................................................................................26

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5.9 CLEANING GUIDELINES FOR AREAS EXPOSED TO SUSPECTED/ CONFIRMED CASE(S) OF COVID-19.........26

5.10 PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE AFTER COMPLETING THE CLEAN-UP AND DISINFECTION OF THE AFFECTED
AREA 28

6. ON BOARD TESTING FOR COVID-19..........................................................................................................29

7. MENTAL HEALTH....................................................................................................................................... 30

8. USEFUL LINKS............................................................................................................................................31

9. ATTACHMENTS........................................................................................................................................... 32

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GENERAL INFORMATION
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the Covid-19 virus affects different
people in different ways. The common symptoms include:
 Fever
 Tiredness
 dry cough
 Sudden loss of smell and/or taste
 Headaches/chills
Other symptoms can include:
 shortness of breath
 aches and pains
 sore throat
 and, in a few cases, people may report diarrhoea, nausea or a runny nose.
 It is believed that up to 30% of those infected do not show any symptoms
and so cleanliness and social distancing must be maintained.

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Below, are the main identified sources for the spread of Covid-19
1) Human-to-human transmission via direct droplet infection only (coughing
and sneezing), no airborne transmission.
2) Incubation time: 2-14 days (average 5-6 days).
3) Indirect transmission via objects such as toilets, door handles, cutlery, hand
contact points etc. play a substantial part in the spread of the disease.
4) Exact data on the infectious period is missing. In any case, a patient is
considered contagious during the symptomatic phase (if he/she shows
symptoms of disease).
BASIC PROTECTIVE MEASURES AGAINST COVID-19
The following are general measures provided by the WHO and based upon the ICS
guidance:
1) Wash your hands frequently using soap and hot water or alcohol-based (at
least 65-70%) hand rub for 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face including
mouth, nose and eyes with unwashed hands (in case hands have touched
surfaces contaminated with the virus).

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2) Cover your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue when sneezing,
coughing, wiping and blowing the nose, then dispose of the used tissue
immediately.
3) If a tissue is not available, cover your nose and mouth and cough or sneeze
into a bent elbow.
4) All used tissues should be disposed of promptly into a waste bin.
5) Aim to maintain social distancing and keep at least 6 feet distance from
other people, particularly those that cough or sneeze or may have a fever.
6) Meat, milk or animal products should always be handled with care, to avoid
cross-contamination with uncooked foods, consistent with good food safety
practices.
7) The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided.
8) Monitor your health closely
9) A temperature/Health log shall be maintained on board as per Appendix 4.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Some ports will require all personnel who come into contact with shore workers to
wear extensive amounts of PPE.
Social distancing is the most effective measure against Covid-19.
The PPE to be used should be appropriate for the operation to be carried out.
Human interaction with shore personnel/New sign on crew are the activities that
need maximum caution.
Guidance for using of Face masks:
 Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.
 Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-
cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
 If you wear a mask, then you must know how to use it and dispose of it
properly.
 Make sure there are no gaps between face and the mask.
 Avoid touching the mask while using it; if you do, clean your hands with
alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
 Replace the mask with a new one as soon as it is damp and do not re-use
single-use masks (Ref to manufacturers recommendations on the pack).
 To remove the mask: remove it from behind (do not touch the front of mask);
discard immediately in a closed bin; clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub
or soap and water.

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COVID-19 PPE MATRIX

N-95 Surgi Gloves Dispos Goggl Face Full body Hand

Mask cal (Surgic al es shiel protectio Sanitize
Mask al- Boiler d n suit r
Cotton) Suit
Gangway/ Deck X X X* X X* X
Watch
Bridge during Pilotage X X X X

Engine room Watches X* X* X

in port
Meeting with shore X X X X X
personnel/ Handling
joining crew
Routine jobs for 2 X X X X
weeks after crew
change
With crew member X X X X X
with any symptoms
Handling suspected X X X X X X
infected persons
Handling Bio-Waste X X X X X

Handling X X X X
Provisions/Stores/Spa
res
Carrying out Covid X X X X X X
test

* As required on case-to-case basis

 If surgical gloves are intended for Multiple use, they should be sanitized after
each use or cotton gloves to be worn on top which can be discarded after
every use or washed with soap and water before using again.
 During routine work at sea where no crew change has taken place at last
port, observe good social distancing and sanitation habits.

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COVID-19 PPE MATRIX:

COVID-19 KIT ON BOARD
Best efforts should be made to maintain below equipment on board.
Sr No Equipment/Medicine Qty
1 Disposable mask N-95 150 Pcs
2 Disposal masks- surgical 300 Pcs
3 Hand sanitizers 50 ml (Personal use) 50 Btls
4 Hand sanitizers 100 ml(Common spaces) 12 Btls
5 Antiseptic medical soap/alcohol-based hand rub 50 Pcs
6 Disinfecting alcohol 5 Ltrs
7 Bleach 3 Ltrs
8 Disposable gloves (cotton) 200 Pcs
9 Disposal gloves surgical 200 Pcs
10 Protective goggles 30 Pcs
11 Protective Face shield 30 Pcs
12 Disposable boiler suits (Gangway protection in 100 Pcs
affected ports)
13 Full body protective suit (PVC Single or multiple use) 24 Pcs
or disposable plastic boiler suits for use while
handling suspected person
14 Plastic sheet roll for tables, sofas etc) 1.5 M x 50 M 01 Roll
15 Tab Hydroxychloroquine (400 mg) 100 No
16 Tab Tocilizumab (Recommended) 100 No
17 Tab Remdesivir (Mandatory) 200 No
18 Tab Lopinavir/ritonavir (Recommended) 100 No
19 Infra-red non-contact thermometer 02 No
20 Disposable Plates/Cutlery 100 Sets
21 Pulse oximeter 02 No
22 Bio-Hazard Bags (If not available, Double Plastic bag 50 No
with zippers can be used)

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23 Covid antigen testing kit 100 tests

24 Medical oxygen. (cylinder – 40 ltr & delivery At least 2 sets
equipment)
25 Oxygen concentrator (having supply more than 1 pcs
7l/min)
26 Steam vaporizer with nozzle inhaler 2 pcs

Any personnel medicines that are carried onboard as per appendix 5 of COVID
management plan shall be declared to office and ship medical officer at the time of
joining.

Medicines in above equipment list and that are carried by ship staff are only to be
used only under directions from Radio Medical advice.

DISINFECTION AND SANITIZATION

1) A plan shall be developed on board for cleaning and disinfecting frequently
touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, hand railings, light
switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and
sinks.
When in port, every 4 hours – CCR alley way to be mopped with sanitizer/ phenyl
and hand railings/Door handles inside accommodation in the CCR deck to be
cleaned with disinfectant.(A ship specific “disinfection and sanitization plan” shall
be attached to this manual for ready reference)
2) Cleaning and disinfecting plan shall include all common spaces like galley,
messrooms, alleyway, common toilets, ships hospital, which shall be
cleaned/disinfected on twice daily basis when the vessel is at sea and every 6
hours in port or when there is a sick person on board. Crew cabins shall be
disinfected at least on alternate days at sea and daily in port or after crew
change (for next 14 Days) or when a sick person is on board.
3) If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to
disinfection.
4) Most common household disinfectants will work. Use disinfectants appropriate
for the surface.
5) Diluted household bleach can be used (Follow instructions on the pack).
6) If using alcohol-based solutions, ensure alcohol is at least 70%.
7) Chlorine solution in a tray and a mat to wipe, at the accommodation entrance
can be used to disinfect shoes prior to entering the accommodation.

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8) Master shall seek information from the agents if a shore service is available to
sanitize the whole accommodation/deck areas of the ship. If the ship has called
frequent ports in last 2 weeks, in consultation with the TSI/MSI master should
arrange a complete disinfection of the ship by shore service providers.

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MANAGING SHIP-EXTERNAL PARTY INTERFACE

PRIOR TO CALLING AT PORT
Prior to calling any port of an affected country
1) Master should ensure accurate port information and vessel ETA is sent to
the office.
2) Gather adequate information and update on the Covid-19 from all
concerned parties to mitigate the risk, take appropriate precautions and
comply with local requirements, which may include the use of additional
PPE.
3) In many countries, local authorities are requiring all vessels to report the
temperature and health condition of a vessel’s crew before entry into the
port.
4) Consult all national advisories/WHO guidelines/ICS guidelines while preparing
the vessel for the port interface
5) Confirm from local agents about all the quarantine measures to be followed.
Obtain pre arrival information as required by appendix 2- Pre arrival, from
agents.
6) Visitors with no work-related reason to be onboard are banned. Where
possible, limit the number of service providers / contractors on board. Any
service provider boarding vessel must have a valid PCR test in last 5 days
prior to boarding vessel. Ask all contractors in advance of their boarding to
complete the COVID-19 appendix 3- Pre arrival self-declaration.
7) Pre- arrival meeting with crew with focus on Covid-19 precautions to be
maintained on board during various activities planned during port call.
8) No shore leave is allowed in any port. Shore leave is only allowed for
essential business such as medical appointments.
PRECAUTIONS WITH PILOT ON BOARD
1) With prior communication as far as possible endeavour to avoid
Trainee/assistant Pilots.
2) Ensure liquid soap/Sanitizer and disposable paper towel available at
bridge hand wash basin.
3) Provide hand sanitizer, Mask/gloves (if not having one) to the pilot soon
after boarding.
4) Maintain 2M distance from the pilot during-
 Greeting the pilot, without a handshake, on boarding.
 Escorting to the bridge
 Pilot - Bridge Team Exchange
 Navigation
5) Disinfect the bridge after pilot disembarkation-
 Tables

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 Chairs
 Bridge front and other porthole sills
 Handrails
 Doorknobs
 Instruments
 VHF/UHF sets
 Pilot plugs
 Consoles
6) Ensure hand sanitizer and paper towels readily available on the bridge.
7) During any prolonged transit, all personnel on the bridge including the
Pilots should be encouraged to regularly wipe down any surface and
equipment they come into contact with, such as pens/pencils, binoculars,
radar control panels, ECDIS control panels, PPUs, VHF radios, chairs,
handrails, etc. Wiping tissues to be disposed properly in the dust bin
8) Minimize number of personnel on bridge down to essential navigation
watchkeeping level.
9) Pilot’s meals, if required by pilots, shall be served in disposable cutlery
and same should be properly disposed-off after use.
10) Use proper PPE as per the Covid-19 PPE matrix.
PRECAUTIONS WITH SHORE PERSONNEL BOARDING VESSEL
1) With prior communication plan only for minimum essential personnel to
board the vessel.
2) Complete visitor’s Pre boarding questionnaire Appendix 1.
3) Greet, ask the personnel to sanitize their hands, verify IDs, Health
Declaration maintaining 2 m distance (do not touch visitors’ IDs)
4) Record body temperature of visitors
5) Deny entry to the visitor without temperature check or when body
temperature is over 37.2 C; inform officer of the watch and the Master.
Master in-turn to inform Vessel Manager immediately.
6) Maintain 2 m distance from shore personnel.
7) Keep all shore personnel confined to one area/room on board preferably
as far as possible from the main traffic of ship’s complement(Tally
room/Suez room etc.), until they have to visit other vessel areas such as
for inspections, surveys, etc.
8) Do not allow personnel to remain on board any longer than strictly
required for business or by transportation limitations.
9) Food must not be brought on board by shore personnel. Shore personnel
should not, where possible, eat on board.
10) Have a dedicated space and /or toilet for the use of shore personnel,
which should be cleaned and disinfected afterwards upon vessel
departure.

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11) Shore embarkation ladders/gangways: avoid coming in direct contact

with any shore equipment including shore gangways and ladders.
12) Officers and crew involved in berthing/unberthing/bunkering operations
must take all precautions as to wearing the relevant PPE and especially
after un-berthing taking into consideration that the terminal’s staff have
come in contact with heaving lines, rope lines etc. After sailing these lines
are to be washed down with soap solution and fresh water (High pressure
deck washing machine can be used) and all accommodation public
spaces, corridors, handrails, toilet etc. are to be properly disinfected.
PRECAUTIONS DURING MEETING WITH SHORE PERSONNEL
1) Avoid face to face meetings. Explore use of VHF/UHF radios as an option
to face to face meeting
2) Request all personnel to wash hands with soap and water prior
commencing the meeting
3) Ensure hand sanitizer is readily available for all to use
4) As much as possible arrange seating in the meeting room/area to provide
safe distance, ideally 5 Feet. (this should also be done for any onboard
meetings with crew)
5) Ship’s personnel may consider use of disposable gloves for handling
paperwork
6) Keep the paperwork at a safe location inside accommodation in sunlight
for 12 hours before filing.
7) Use of non-ship radios
 Wear disposable glove when receiving radios
 Wipe down and disinfect the radios and seal the radios in zip lock bag
to start using
 Disinfect the radios before returning
8) Completion of Ship and external party Interface:
 Ensure all personnel have left the vessel
 Sanitize all the accommodation areas and equipment exposed to
shore personnel
PRECAUTIONS WITH PRIVATE MARITIME SECURITY GUARDS ON BOARD
1) FWMS will get the Due diligence questionnaire and personnel
questionnaire from the PMSC (Private maritime security companies), for
all the security guards being planned on board.
2) MSI/TSI will inform master of the results of due diligence carried out by
office and assess the risk with master.
3) Covid testing requirements for armed security guards:
 Records shall be available to demonstrate that the security guards have
served a 14 days quarantine period prior to boarding. This can be ashore

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or in a floating armoury vessel in which case there shall be a declaration to

this effect from the master of the armoury vessel along with their
temperature and health records. The Covid tests as per below, shall be
after completion of this quarantine period.
 All security guards boarding vessel from a shore-based establishment shall
have a valid Covid test (PCR type) within last 5 days.
 All security guards boarding from a floating armoury shall have at least
two antigen tests (as far as practicable at 5 days interval).
 Master shall Carry out a Covid-19 test of all the security guards, if test kit is
available on board.
 If the security guards are planned from an armoury where no Covid testing
facility is available, then master has to conduct 2 tests for each armed
guard immediately after boarding (If possible test kits can be sent to
floating armoury/service launch for tests prior to boarding).
 When the testing facility is not available on both, the armoury and
on- board vessel, intimate office in advance for guidance.
4) Security equipment to be disinfected/sterilized after receiving on board.
(This to be carried out by security guards themselves, disinfectant to be
provided)
5) General precautions with armed security guards,
 Observe social distancing throughout their stay.
 As far as possible separate cabins should be provided to each security
guard
 Provide required PPE (Mask/gloves/glasses/face shield/body
suit/hand sanitizer) if not provided by their company.
 Under normal conditions access restricted access to bridge (prefer
maximum time on bridge wings) mess room and identified recreation
room.
 Have separate timings for meals (and Separate dishes/glasses etc.)
/recreation room/laundry/gym facilities and establish disinfection
routine after their use of these facilities.
 Social courtesy to be practiced.
6) After the guards have disembarked, their accommodation should be
thoroughly cleaned.
7) FWMS must inform the PMSC if any seafarer falls ill with a fever, flu-like
symptoms or tests positive for Covid-19 within two weeks of the security
guards’ departure. Similarly, the PMSC must inform FWMS, if any of the
guards fall ill with a fever, flu-like symptoms or test positive for Covid-19
within two weeks of departing the ship.

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REPAIR AND DRY DOCK OPERATIONS

1) During periods in repair yards, shore workers will need to gain access to the
ship.
2) FWMS shall communicate with the yard/ repair facilities, which should ensure
that no workers exhibiting symptoms should be allowed onboard. The repair
facility is responsible for ensuring that all workers are free of the virus and that
they complete a health declaration form prior to being engaged on the ship.
3) FWMS and the yard will agree on setting up of a monitoring station on the
dock/jetty prior to boarding of the ship where the temperatures of the
workers can be monitored. If the temperature readings are above 37.3
degrees Celsius, the worker should not be allowed onboard.
4) Only one gangway or access route should be used.
5) All precautions as for dealing with visitors as per this Covid-19 Handbook
shall be exercised.
PRECAUTIONS DURING BUNKERING
Ship’s crew shall not board Bunker Barge for any requirements during bunkering in
normal circumstances. If due to any unforeseen reasons ship’s crew is required to
board the Bunker barge, master shall carry out a risk assessment and seek approval
from TSI.

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CREW CHANGE
PLANNING CREW CHANGE
1) Keep office updated of the vessel’s itinerary.
2) Update office of all the information from agents regarding crew change
correspondence.
3) Get information from Manning office, for all quarantine requirements from
various countries and home country of seafarers (after sign-off from ships)
and brief the off-signing crew accordingly.
4) Clarify from manning department and branch offices, of all the arrangements
made during quarantine period of seafarers at sign off port or at home
country and brief the off signers accordingly.
 Monitor the off signers closely till they finally reach home.
 Keeping the family informed.
 Arrange communication facilities for them- phone calls/internet access.
 (Ref appendix 7 - risk assessment as attached)
 (Ref appendix- 5 Travel guidelines for seafarers)
HANDLING JOINING CREW
1) Carry out visitors screening as per OMP- Outbreak management plan. Ensure
they are using proper PPE against Covid-19. (As a company policy, all joining
crew has undergone at least two Covid-19 test before flying out from home
country, and at the joining port if the duration between the pre-joining
medicals and embarking the vessel is more than 5 days. These tests are in
addition to the requirements of port states of the place of joining.
2) A Covid test of all the on-signers to be carried out by the master. Any crew
member testing positive on board to re-do the tests ashore and joining is to
be cancelled if the shore test is +ve.
3) Joining crew to handle his/their own luggage and disinfected outside
accommodation.
4) Joining crew to be escorted to a “dedicated area” for shower/clothes change.
Used clothes to be stowed in plastic bags till washing is carried out separately
in the laundry with disinfecting antiseptic and hot water.
5) The “Dedicated area” to be disinfected regularly in line with Outbreak
management plan.
6) Joining crew to be briefed on ships- Outbreak management plan during
safety familiarization.
7) New crew to maintain effective social distancing and as far as possible wear
mask, gloves, Goggles for 14 days when outside his cabin.
8) Separate meal/lounge/laundry/Gym timings for 14 days. Consider providing
meals in cabin to new joiners.

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9) Disinfection schedule of common spaces (every 12 hours) and cabins of

joining crew to be maintained on a daily basis for next 14 days.
10) Temperature and health checks of joined crew- twice daily for next 14 Days.
11) Isolate crew if any symptoms observed and follow Outbreak management
plan.
HANDLING SIGN OFF CREW
1) All information as in section ‘Planning crew change” above, obtained.
2) Brief the joining crew thoroughly. (Ref RA as attached and appendix- 5 Travel
guidance for seafarers)
3) Travel PPE is provided to off-signers by the master. (Can be arranged through
agents locally if required)
 Surgical gloves- 2 pairs
 N 95 face masks- 02 Pairs
 Surgical face masks- 04 Pairs
 Goggles- 01
 Hand sanitizer 50 ml X 1
 Printout of Travel precautions appendix-5 as attached
4) Advise seafarer to handle his luggage himself during travel.
5) Provide off signers with a copy of their health check records for last 14 days
and a list of ports of calls for last 30 days, duly signed/stamped by master.
(Just in case some crew member are having difficulties in communications at
some port/country).
6) Provide crew with any travel documentation for Covid-19, from his respective
manning office/government.

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OUTBREAK MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR COVID-19

This “Outbreak management plan” shall be made ship specific as per below guidelines and
attached to this plan for ready reference:
1) Identify and mark location or locations where suspected cases will be isolated
individually until disembarkation and transfer to shore hospital.
2) This may be the ship’s Hospital for a single person. Confirm that the hospital
has an exhaust fan in operation.
3) Since this disease is not airborne it can also be the individual's Cabin.
4) Isolate air conditioning for the Hospital. Consider natural ventilation of this
space.
5) DO not place AC on recirculation in the accommodation.
6) Cleaning and disinfection procedures for potentially contaminated areas.
7) Guidance from “Balaji Medical Centre” for cleaning and sanitizing to be
followed. This includes the crew Cabin and any other areas the person may
have visited. (Smoke room, Mess room or Gymnasium)
8) Establish how, close contacts of the suspected case will be managed.
9) Personnel attending to a suspect COVID 19 patient shall use disposable boiler
suits, face mask, face shield and surgical gloves that will be disposed of after
each interaction In addition to Face shield which should be sanitized after
every interaction.
10) Establish how will foodservice and utensils, waste management services and
laundry be provided to the isolated seafarer?
11) As soon as an outbreak is reported, use of disposable cutlery and disposable
crockery will be commenced on board.
12) Laundry, disposable or non-disposable food service utensils, linen, towels and
mattress and waste from the cabins of suspected cases and their contacts
should be handled as if infectious. These should be landed ashore in
Biohazard bags as infectious waste or incinerated onboard.
13) For on signers showing COVID19 symptoms, keep records if they have
stopped in transit in COVID-19 affected countries or areas before boarding.

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DETECTION OF COVID OUTBREAK

Symptoms
Suggestive
of COVID 19

COVID 19
RAT (Rapid Antigen Test) onboard.
Confirmed

Negative
Positive

RT-PCR at next port if symptoms are persistent.

POSITIVE

Negative
CT Scan, if
symptoms are
persistent (on
To be carried out at sea / port medical
practitioner

To be carried out at next port

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5.1.1 ON DETECTION OF COVID PATIENT ONBOARD

 Make arrangement to shift patient to appropriate medical facility at next port.

 Follow precautions as mentioned in this chapter.

For all ship staff other than COVID patient

When vessel is at Sea
 Carry out testing of all ship staff using onboard antigen test kits. If kit onboard is
limited, then prioritize for ship staff that came in contact with patient.
 Carry out daily health check of entire ship staff and maintain records (appendix 4).
 Arrange RT -PCR test of all ship staff at next port of call.

When vessel is at port

 Arrange RT -PCR test of all ship staff.

5.1.2 PRECAUTIONS DURING SHORE TESTING

 Maintain at least 2-meter distance at testing facility.
 If external testing facility is utilized, then minimum number of ship staff of each
department shall be retained onboard at any given time for safety reasons.
 PPE requirement as per company matrix to be adhered.

ACTIVATING OUTBREAK MANAGEMENT PLAN

1) Ref appendix 8 ICS Guidelines: protocol to mitigate risks of cases on board
ships for the Flow chart “Decision making for on board suspected or
confirmed Covid 19 Cases.
2) Ship crew who feel unwell, experience respiratory symptoms (e.g. cough,
shortness of breath) or feel feverish, should inform the Master immediately.
3) If it is determined that there is a suspected case of COVID-19 disease on
board, the outbreak management plan should be activated.
4) The suspected case should be immediately instructed to wear a medical
mask, follow cough etiquette and practice hand hygiene; the suspected case
should be isolated in the Hospital - predefined isolation ward, with the door
closed.
5) Master shall contact Balaji Medical Centre for advice.
i. Telephone: +91 44 24364651, +91 44 24364652, +91 44 24364653

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ii. Email: info@balajimedicalcentre.com, dr@balajimedicalcentre.com,

6) Take Temperature of all crew members on-board to have their temperature

taken twice a day. Take the temperature of Infected person at a frequency
stated by Balaji Medical Centre.
7) Disinfect all common areas and Cabins.
8) The vessel should contact TSI/MSI and call the Office Emergency Number.
9) In liaison with office, if in port, contact port agents to arrange for the
patients’ disembarkation and medical transportation. Where shore assistance is
available, professional medical staff should transfer the patients ashore. When
circumstances require other crew-members, involved in the transfer of
patients, they should perform hand hygiene and wear medical mask,
goggles/face shield, gloves and disposable boiler suits.
10) If at Sea, in liaison with office, the shipmaster should then inform destination
port authority and ship agent to make the necessary arrangements to seek
medical attention.
ATTENDING PATIENTS ISOLATED IN CABINS
1) Patients should wear a mask and be isolated in separate cabins. They should
have their meals alone in their own cabins and not be allowed to participate
in group activities on board to avoid close contact with other crew members.
2) The isolation room should be well ventilated or using exhaust fans if
necessary. Keep the rooms tidy and clean.
3) Gloves, tissues, masks and other wastes used by the patients should be
placed in a special disposable bag and labelled as pollutants.
4) Limit the number of caregivers and try to arrange individuals in good health
and without any chronic diseases to take care of the patient.
5) Caregivers should take personal protective measures, such as wearing masks,
eye shields and gowns. Protective equipment should be disinfected or
disposed of after use.
PATIENT CARE
Any treatment shall be in accordance with consultation with radio medical advice
and/or company doctor.
Following is general care for the COVID patient
1) SpO2 check
Sit on bed/chair. Place the SpO2 monitor on the left index/middle finger and wait for
45 seconds. The 45th second reading is your SpO2 reading.
Start treating with medical oxygen (on doctor advise) as soon as SpO2 reading falls
below. Normal Spo2 is > 95.

2) Proning position (lying face down): For saturation below 94

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3) Temperature check
Monitor temperature by a mercury thermometer. It gives a very accurate reading
(better than digital). Normal temperature of human body is 97.56 F to 99.6 F. We
consider fever only when temperature is > 99.6 F.

4) Cold Compression and Tepid sponging

Continue with cold compression of hand, feet and forehead.

5) Steam inhalation
Inhale steam at least 3 times a day.

6) Gargles
Have gargles with solution of lukewarm water and betadine twice a day.

7) Diet
Consume lot of fluids like water, juices, milk, coconut water, soups. and have
proper diet. Have a nutritious diet with fresh vegetables, fruits and high protein
diet.
DEFINITION OF CLOSE CONTACT ON BOARD (HIGH RISK EXPOSURE)
A person is considered to have had a high-risk exposure if they meet one of the
following:

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1) They have stayed in the same cabin as a suspected or confirmed COVID-19

case
2) They had close contact (that is, they were within 1 m of) or were in a closed
environment with a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case –
 This may include participating in common activities on board the ship or
while ashore, being a member of a group travelling together, dining at the
same table.
 Working in the same area of the ship as the suspected or confirmed COVID-
19 case, for example, someone who cleaned the cabin or staff who
delivered food to the cabin.
MANAGING CONTACTS/CLOSE CONTACTS
1) To avoid delays in implementing health measures, contact tracing should
begin immediately after a suspected case has been identified onboard
without waiting for laboratory results.
2) Every effort should be made to minimize the exposure of other crew to the
suspected case.
3) Isolate these personnel who may have had close contact with the suspected
case and place them under medical observation in their cabins.
DISPOSAL OF MEDICAL WASTE
Discard all wastes in cabins or isolation rooms in a double-bagged biohazard bag
securely sealed and labelled. Biohazard bags should be disposed of ashore or
incinerated.
CLEANING AND DISINFECTION
1) Following Future care and WHO’s guidance on infection prevention and
control when COVID-19 infection is suspected, cabins occupied by patients
and close contacts of a confirmed case with COVID-19 disease should be
cleaned and disinfected daily, and cleaning and disinfection should be carried
out after they have disembarked.
2) Laundry, disposable or non-disposable food service utensils, linen, towels and
mattress and waste from the cabins of suspected cases and their contacts
should be handled as if infectious. These should be landed ashore in
Biohazard bags as infectious waste or incinerated onboard.
3) It is essential that the ship remains at the port for the time required to
thoroughly clean and disinfect it.
4) After one suspected person on board have been disembarked for shore
medical assistance, best efforts should be made by Master to get the whole
Ship Sanitized by shore expert service providers prior to commencing a fresh
voyage.

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CLEANING AGENTS AND DISINFECTANTS

1) Clean all surfaces, frequently touched surfaces, and floors with bleach.
2) Bleach can be used as a disinfectant for cleaning and disinfection (dilute 1-
part bleach in 50 parts water, or 1000 ppm). Bleach solutions should be
prepared fresh. Leaving the bleach solution for a contact time of at least 10
minutes is recommended.
3) Alcohol (e.g. isopropyl 70%, ethyl alcohol 60%) can be used to wipe down
surfaces where the use of bleach is not suitable e.g. metal.
4) Disinfectants should be prepared and applied following the manufacturer’s
guidelines. Ensure that appropriate contact time is given before removing
any disinfected materials.
PROTECTIVE PERSONAL EQUIPMENT (PPE) TO WEAR WHILE CARRYING OUT
CLEANING AND DISINFECTION WORKS
1) Wear disposable gloves, disposable boiler suits, eye goggles or face shield
and an N- 95 mask.
2) Avoid touching the nose and mouth (goggles may help as it will prevent
hands from touching eyes).
3) Eye goggles should be disinfected according to the manufacturer’s
instructions after each use.
4) Gloves should be removed and discarded if they become soiled or damaged
and a new pair worn.
5) All other disposable PPE should also be removed and discarded after cleaning
activities are completed.
6) Hands should be washed with soap and water immediately after each piece
of PPE is removed following completion of cleaning.
7) Masks are effective if worn according to instructions and properly fitted.
Masks should be discarded and changed if it becomes physically damaged.
8) Surgical Masks may be donned where N-95 masks are not available onboard.
CLEANING GUIDELINES FOR AREAS EXPOSED TO SUSPECTED/ CONFIRMED CASE(S)
OF COVID-19
1) Where possible, seal off the areas where the suspected/confirmed case has
visited before carrying out cleaning and disinfection of the contaminated
environmental surfaces. This is to prevent unsuspecting persons from being
exposed to those surfaces.
2) When cleaning areas where a suspected/confirmed case has been, cleaning
crews should be attired in suitable PPE (see PPE Section above).
3) Keep cleaning equipment to the minimum.
4) Keep the area ventilated where the workers are using disinfectants.
5) Mop floor with bleach (dilute 1-part bleach in 50 parts water, or 1000 ppm).

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6) Wipe all frequently touched areas (e.g. lift buttons, handrails, doorknobs,
armrests, seatbacks, tables, air/light controls, keyboards, switches etc.) and
lavatory surfaces with chemical disinfectants (use according to
manufacturer’s instructions) and allowed to air dry. Bleach solution (dilute 1-
part bleach in 50 parts water, or 1000 ppm) can be used. Alcohol (e.g.
isopropyl 70% or ethyl alcohol 70%) can be used for surfaces where the use of
bleach is not suitable.
7) Wipe down bulkheads up to full height as well as blinds with bleach (dilute 1-
part bleach in 50 parts water, or 1000 ppm).
8) Remove curtains/fabrics (Sofa covers) for washing with preferably hot water
cycle. For hot-water laundry cycles, wash with detergent or disinfectant in
the water at 70°C for at least 25 minutes. If low-temperature (i.e. < 70°C)
laundry cycles are used, choose a chemical that is suitable for low-
temperature washing when used at the proper concentration.
9) Discard cleaning equipment made of cloths and absorbent materials e.g. mop
head and wiping cloths into biohazard bags after cleaning and disinfecting
each area as these materials are not easily disinfected. Wear a new pair of
gloves and fasten the double-bagged biohazard bag with a cable tie.
10) Disinfect non-porous cleaning equipment used in one room before using for
other rooms. If possible, keep the disinfecting equipment separated from
other routine equipment.
11) Disinfect buckets by soaking in bleach (dilute 1-part bleach in 50 parts water,
or 1000 ppm, at least 10 minutes), disinfectant solution or rinse in hot water
before filling.
12) Discard equipment made of cloths/ absorbent materials (e.g. mop head and
wiping cloths) after cleaning each area to prevent cross-contamination.
13) Disinfectants should be applied to surfaces using a damp cloth. They should
not be applied to surfaces using a spray pack, as coverage is uncertain, and
spraying may promote the production of aerosols. The creation of aerosols
caused by splashing liquid during cleaning should be avoided. A steady
sweeping motion should be used when cleaning either floors or horizontal
surfaces to prevent the creation of aerosols or splashing. Cleaning methods
that might aerosolize infectious material, such as the use of compressed air,
must not be used.
14) Leave the disinfected area and avoid using the area the next day.
15) Biohazard bags should be disposed ashore or incinerated upon the
completion of the disinfection work.

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PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE AFTER COMPLETING THE CLEAN-UP AND DISINFECTION OF

THE AFFECTED AREA
1) Cleaning crews should wash their hands with soap and water immediately
after removing the PPE and when cleaning and disinfection work is
completed.
2) Discard all used PPEs in a double-bagged biohazard bag securely sealed and
labelled. Biohazard bags should be disposed ashore or incinerated upon the
completion of the disinfection work.
3) The crew should be aware of the symptoms and should report to their
department head if they develop symptoms

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Guidelines ON BOARD TESTING FOR COVID-19

Below are the guidelines regarding carrying out On-board tests for Covid-19
If the master intends to carry out a Covid-19 test, He should:
1) Contact office(MSI/TSI) with copy to Balaji medical Centre, providing
information about the persons to be tested and the conditions for which he is
being tested.( Suspected exposure/suspected travel history/Symptoms etc.)
with the type/make/model of the test kit on board.
2) Thoroughly read and understand the manufacturers manual for the test kit.
3) Carry out the test upon confirmation from MSI/TSI and Balaji medical Centre
depending on the type of test kit (Most kits require blood sample to be
taken).
4) Take due precautions during the test as below:
 To be carried out only by master or ships medical Officer in master’s
presence.
 Person testing should have all PPE worn- Full body suit/gloves/mask/face
shield.
 Person being tested should have PPE – Mask/Gloves/Goggles/Body suit as
applicable and practicable.
 Test to be conducted in ships hospital only.
 Disposal of the test equipment/blood sample/nasal swabs etc.
(cotton/syringe/blood samples/test kit/Gloves/Mask/Body suit etc.) shall
be treated with high caution as a bio-hazard and be disposed off in bio-
hazard plastic bags and declared to port authorities on arrival for proper
disposal ashore.
 Hospital to be sanitize after every test carried out.
5) Please Contact Balaji medical Centre for any doubts regarding same.

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MENTAL HEALTH
This is an unprecedented situation in our lifetimes, and we acknowledge the stress
and strain this is placing on individuals and families. FWMS is monitoring the
situation very closely and carefully, to ensure that all come out of this, safe and
sound.
1) The master should arrange to ensure that the seafarers are given access to
ship’s satellite Phone if a seafarer wants to call his/her parents who are old
and do not have access to internet services.
2) Limits of the internet usage per person are extended on our ships to ensure
the seafarers are well connected with their families.
3) The master should encourage and engage all ship staff in Morale boosting
activities, campaigns and hold frequent meetings (with social distancing) to
update our seafarers with the latest developments in the industry and
FWMS w.r.t Covid-19.

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USEFUL LINKS
Helpful information links:
1) www.imo.org- Communications from flag states
2) BIMCO - https://www.bimco.org/covid19- Port and national travel
restrictions
3) EMSA - http://emsa.europa.eu: European restrictions/travel notices
4) https://www.itfglobal.org/en/focus/covid-19- ITF Updates
5) https://www.uscg.mil/coronavirus/: US updates
6) https://www.mpa.gov.sg/web/portal/home/port-of-singapore/circulars-and-
notices/port-marine-circulars - Singapore circulars
7) http://unwfp.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard: World travel restrictions
8) https://sustainableworldports.org/world-ports-covid19-information-portal/-
World ports information portal
9) https://www.wilhelmsen.com/shipsagency/campaigns/coronavirus/coronavir
us-map/- World ports information portal
10) www.dgshipping.gov.in: Indian govt requirements pertaining to Covid-19.
11) https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/international-travel-document-
news/1580226297.htm (For latest travel restrictions)
12) https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-
2019/situation-reports : (For latest information and SITREP from WHO)

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ATTACHMENTS
1) Appendix 1: Pre-Boarding Questionnaire
2) Appendix 2: Pre-arrival questionnaire for Agent
3) Appendix 3: Pre arrival self-reporting form
4) Appendix 4: Crew health Check record
5) Appendix 5: Travel guidance for seafarers
6) Appendix 6: RA Covid-19 outbreak on board
7) Appendix 7: RA Crew change
8) Appendix 8: ICS guidelines protocols to mitigate cases on board ships

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