In light of the growing number of COVID-19 cases, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has stepped up its monitoring systems for all offshore vessels. According to its most recent advisory, MARAD is demanding to see the travel history and nationality of every offshore worker along with details of plans operators have in place to deal with a COVID-19 case.
Specifically, MARAD is requesting information on any Guyanese national working onboard, including their rotation/duty period, details of MEDIC facility onboard including ventilation of hospital, as well as MEDIC plan and response guide in place for COVID-19 cases. MARAD said that this would be reviewed for all vessels while noting that provisions have to be in place for separate accommodation space with ventilation arrangements for COVID-19 emergency preparedness.
The Department is also demanding that all onboard arrangements or safety guidelines for COVID-19 be in line with those of the World Health Organization (WHO). These guidelines also have to be approved by MARAD. Should any offshore vessel detect a COVID-19 case, the Master of the vessel is required to inform the competent health authority immediately.
MARAD said it would also be reviewing cleaning and waste management plans for all vessels. It has also said that all crew changes would have to receive the department’s approval.
