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Pandemic preparedness onboard

COVID-19 exposed how quickly a respiratory outbreak can trap crew in place, close crew changes, and overwhelm shipboard medical resources. Pandemic preparedness is now a standing MLC 4.1 + ISM Code 7 topic — every operator should have a documented pandemic-response annex to the SMS covering PPE stock, isolation cabins, ventilation control, and stakeholder communications.

Step-by-step

  1. Confirm the SMS pandemic annex is current — reviewed within the last 12 months.
  2. Verify PPE stock (masks, gloves, gowns, hand-sanitiser) meets the annex minimum + reorder lead-time.
  3. Identify the designated isolation cabin(s) + confirm HVAC segregation feasibility.
  4. Confirm the shipboard medical chest carries pandemic-relevant symptomatic-treatment medication.
  5. Confirm the crew-change protocol with the manning agent + charterer — testing windows + quarantine hotel arrangement.
  6. Communicate the outbreak-response chain of command to the crew — Master + designated Medical Officer + shore DPA + P&I club emergency line.

Evidence to save

What NOT to sign

Legal basis

MLC 2006 Regulation 4.1 (medical care onboard + ashore), ISM Code Element 7 (development of plans for shipboard operations), WHO IHR 2005 (International Health Regulations), IMO MSC-MEPC.7/Circ.11 COVID-19-related crew-change guidance (extended for general pandemic preparedness).

Related terms

Organisations that can help

Disclaimer. General information only — flag-state and port-state pandemic-response requirements vary. Consult your DPA, P&I club, and flag-state administration for the current operational advisory.