The AIMS is concerned that surveyors have received little or no information on how to protect themselves from the Coronavirus when boarding vessels from China.

Of particular concern are those vessels that have been berthed in China for a period of time, vessels that have recently visited China or vessels with Chinese crew who may be affected.

While many employers have been pro-active in WHS practices we encourage all marine surveyors to take personal responsibility for their health and well being.

How to protect yourself

Follow information published on the Department of Health’s website as it will be the most up to date.https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov

There are currently no vaccines available to protect you against human coronavirus infection. You may be able to reduce your risk of infection by doing the following

• wash your hands before and after attending a vessel with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and wear disposable rubber gloves while on board the vessel
• avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
• avoid close contact with people or crew who appear sick or have flu like symptoms by wearing a mask

General Practice

• Make sure your personal protective equipment includes gloves, masks (PP2) and eye wear when conducting surveys on vessels arriving from affected regions

• Authorised officers should also wear protective equipment and should note that they have delegation and a responsibility to report any vessel that they believe may have affected crew to the Department of Health as soon as practical.

If any marine surveyor or Authorised Officer suspects any crew on board a vessel may have contracted the virus, report the matter immediately to the relevant state health authority and refer yourself to a Doctor.

The link to State and Territory Health Departments is listed below

https://www.health.gov.au/about-us/contact-us/local-state-and-territory-health-departmentshttps://www.health.gov.au/about-us/contact-us/local-state-and-territory-health-departments