IMO released a much needed guidance for the realization of crew changes in the shipping industry. The 61-page protocol contains recommendations to Member States about measures to facilitate ship crew changes in seaports during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Released on May 5, Circular Letter No.4204 addresses “Member States and international organizations to make use of the annexed Framework and to disseminate it among relevant national authorities with responsibility, interalia, for maritime issues, health, customs, immigration, border control, seaport and civil aviation authorities; and to liaise with relevant national authorities with respect to the use and implementation of this Framework, as appropriate.”
The said framework of protocols was crafted by a broad cross section of global industry associations in consultative status with the Organization representing the maritime transportation sector, as follows: ICS, IAPH, BIMCO, IFSMA, INTERTANKO, P&I Clubs, CLIA, INTERCARGO, InterManager, IPTA, IMCA, INTERFERRY, FONASBA, ITF and WSC; and which also take account of input from the International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Seafarers play a crucial role
Seafarers play a crucial role in the global supply chain. 90% of world’s goods are transported by sea. At any given month, there are close to 50, 000 seafarers that needs repatriation.
But with the world stopped virtually in the past few months due to restrictions, lockdowns and travel bans, it rose close to 150, 000 to date.
For that reason, having large numbers of seafarers serving extended contracts is widely considered unsustainable and increasing the risk both for the safety and well-being of seafarers and the safe operation of maritime trade.
Many welfare organization including the ITF pushes for safe facilitation of crew changes amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This framework of protocols serves as the reference or guide for all stakeholders involve in such operations.
Download the Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Recommended framework of protocols for
ensuring safe ship crew changes and travel during the coronavirus
(COVID-19) pandemic at IMO.org