COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships
This guidance is for all New Zealand PCBUs and their workers who are boarding any ship that arrives in New Zealand that has persons on board who are in isolation or quarantine to undertake a necessary task during the COVID-19 pandemic
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 1 of 26 COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships
Last updated: 20 May 2021 This document is uncontrolled if printed. Please refer to the Maritime New Zealand website for the latest version.
In this guide 1. Introduction 4
Part one: Risk management for boarding and working on affected ships safely 2. Duties, obligations and responsibilities 6
3. Risk management and control 8
4. Obligations on workers when undertaking necessary tasks on a ship 9
5. Boarding affected ships to undertake a necessary task 10 5.1 Boarding an affected ship 10 5.2 Safely undertaking a task 11 6. Maritime border worker testing, vaccinations and the roles of Government agencies 13 6.1 Regular health checks and asymptomatic testing 13 6.2 Staff sickness 13 6.3 Vaccinations 13 6.4 Roles of Customs, Police, WorkSafe and Maritime NZ 14
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 2 of 26 Part two: Infection prevention controls
7. Infection prevention controls 16 7.1 Hand hygiene 16 7.2 Coughing or sneezing 17 7.3 Avoid touching your face 17 7.4 Physical distancing 17 7.5 Gloves 17 7.6 Face masks 18 7.7 Order for putting on PPE 19 7.8 Order for taking off PPE 19 8. Cleaning 20 8.1 Basic principles of cleaning and disinfection 20
9. Contact us 21
Appendix 1: How to wear a face mask safely 22
Appendix 2: How to remove a face mask 23
Appendix 3: Non-medical (fabric) masks 24
Appendix 4: Sample risk assessment and control guide 26
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 3 of 26 1. Introduction
This guideline is for all New Zealand PCBUs and their workers who are accessing affected ships during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Part one of this guideline describes the mandatory actions PCBUs and workers must take when boarding a ship to undertake a necessary task. This only applies to ships that have arrived in New Zealand that have persons on board who are in isolation or quarantine.
Clause 25 of the Maritime Border Order No 2 places obligations on persons who board a ship to undertake a necessary task. All workers who board a ship in isolation or quarantine must take all reasonable steps to minimise the risk of outbreak, or the spread of COVID 19.
These reasonable steps are specified in Maritime Border Order No 2. The first two steps are to maintain physical distance and to minimise the time spent on the ship. The third step, which is the principal focus of this guideline, is to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) of a type, and in a manner, consistent with the contents of this guideline.
To reduce the risk of future COVID-19 outbreaks or spread, the New Zealand Government has implemented a testing strategy and is making a vaccine available. Regular testing is part of our rapid response to detect any cases so we can eliminate COVID-19. Government also has a plan to provide a free vaccine to protect everyone in Aotearoa. First, we’re protecting those most at risk of catching COVID-19 in their workplace.
Part two of this guideline sets out a range of best practice controls that workers can use to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19. Where Part two explains the type and manner in which PPE must be worn, these are mandatory requirements for workers. Part two was developed based on material provided by the Ministry of Health.
All ships trading internationally are required to have in place a safety management system (SMS) that identifies risks and sets out approved policies and procedures for managing those risks.
The guidance in this document reflects the New Zealand legal requirements.
A PCBU means a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking. PCBU is a broad concept used throughout HSWA to describe all types of modern working arrangements which we commonly refer to as businesses.
Disclaimer
Maritime NZ has produced this information and guidance in conjunction with other government agencies, and industry (including union and employer organisations). While Maritime NZ continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation and will endeavour to keep this material up to date with current policies and legislation, due to the fast-changing nature of the situation this may not always be possible, and therefore this guidance may change without notice. This material does not constitute legal advice and does not replace any of the referenced legislation, their amendments, nor any legal instruments that may be in place now, or in the future which are, or may become relevant.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 4 of 26 1. Introduction (continued)
Disclaimer (continued)
Links to the latest legislative instruments which are, or may become, relevant to this guidance and information may be found on the Unite Against COVID-19 webpage here.
The NZ Government disclaims and excludes all liability for any claim, loss, demand or damages of any kind whatsoever (including for negligence) arising out of or in connection with the use of either this guidance or the information, content or materials included in this guidance or on any website it links to.
If you need professional advice, including advice about your legal obligations, you should see a professional adviser and not rely on the information, content or materials included in this guidance or on any website to which it links.
Who should use this guidance and information?
This document is intended for those PCBUs and workers at the maritime border. This specifically includes PCBUs, and their workers who board ships, while acting in the normal course of their work, to undertake necessary tasks aboard ships1. This may include:
marine pilots stevedores ships’ agents class surveyors providores and chandlers service engineers and technicians, including mechanics, shipwrights, welders, fitters, riggers, electricians, electronics technicians and compass adjusters fumigation technicians Flag State inspectors, surveyors and auditors port captains, ship superintendents and technical superintendents employed by ship owners and ship managers cargo surveyors and supercargoes who ride ships from port to port in NZ livestock wranglers cargo load masters regional harbourmasters government officials, e.g. Maritime NZ, MPI Biosecurity, Ministry of Health, Immigration New Zealand, district health boards, Fisheries New Zealand, Customs, NZ Defence Force and the Transportation Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) first responders such as Fire and Emergency NZ, Police and St John New Zealand chaplains, seafarer welfare advocates and volunteers from seafarers’ missions
1 As described in the Public Health Response (Maritime Border) Order No 2 (2020).
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 5 of 26 Part one: Risk management for boarding and working on affected ships safely
Part one of this guideline describes the mandatory actions PCBUs and workers must take when boarding a ship to undertake a necessary task. This only applies to ships that have arrived in New Zealand that have persons on board who are in isolation or quarantine. 2. Duties, obligations and responsibilities
There are key pieces of legislation that overlap when it comes to public health and workplace health and safety during the current pandemic:
1. Maritime Transport Act 1994
The master of a ship has responsibility for the safety of all persons on board. A ship master’s responsibilities do not replace, remove or modify a person’s duties or obligations to comply with Health Orders or HSWA. 2. Health and Safety at Work Act 2015:
2.1 All PCBUs operating at the border – which includes ports – need to manage the critical risk of exposure to COVID-19. As part of managing this risk, PCBUs and workers need to continue to meet their obligations under HSWA. Meeting HSWA obligations means putting measures in place to prevent workers from being infected with COVID-19, so far as is reasonably practicable. 2.2 New Zealand PCBUs who are responsible for workers going on board ships to undertake necessary tasks should apply the hierarchy of controls to the management of COVID-19 risks in consultation with their workers and incorporate the requirements of this guidance. This includes developing safe work practices, which must also be effectively communicated to workers and followed at all times. Overall risk management practices must be developed, implemented and enforced by PCBU’s. PCBUs have a duty to manage specified risks through the application of the hierarchy of controls.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 6 of 26 2. Duties, obligations and responsibilities (continued)
2.3 The Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016 impose duties on PCBUs and workers in relation to PPE. Further information on PCBUs and workers duties in relation to PPE is available here at: https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/personal-protective-equipment-ppe/
2.4 New Zealand PCBUs must ensure so far as reasonably practicable, that all workers going on board a vessel have the appropriate PPE with them at all times and that workers are using the PPE when required by Maritime Border Order No 2 or by the ship’s master.
2.5 If, following consultation with the ship’s master or another NZ PCBU, a PCBU cannot agree to the COVID-19 risk controls to be observed aboard the ship, the matter could be referred to Maritime NZ for resolution. This may not be practicable when a timely resolution to the issue is required, particularly when matters arise outside normal office hours.
Reporting and responding to non-compliance
2.6 Non-compliance with, or confusion about laws, regulations or a PCBU’s risk management procedures, may require stopping work and leaving the shipboard workplace until it has been resolved and the workplace has been made safe again.
2.7 Non-compliance with a PCBU’s or a ship’s COVID-19 risk controls and safe work practices should be reported to a supervisor employed by the PCBU, a Customs officer in the port, and Maritime NZ.
3. COVID-19 Public Health Response (Maritime Border) Order (No 2) 2020:
2.8 The Order specifies that if those on the ship are in isolation or quarantine, no person may board the ship, except a person who undertakes a necessary task. They can only remain on the vessel to undertake that necessary task. See clause 24.
2.9 While they are undertaking that necessary task on board the ship, the person must take reasonable steps to minimise the risk of the spread of COVID-19. The duty on workers undertaking a necessary task on board a ship are discussed in greater detail at section 4 of this guidance. See Maritime Border Order clause 25.
The emergence of and response to COVID-19 does not affect workers’ rights to cease or refuse to carry out unsafe work as detailed in section 83 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA).
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 7 of 26 3. Risk management and control
A key principle of HSWA is the requirement for a systematic risk and hazard management process to identify and eliminate or minimise potential and actual sources of harm.
When risks in the work environment have been identified, use the hierarchy of controls below to find the most effective controls. The effectiveness of the controls decreases as you step down the hierarchy. See Appendix 4 for a sample of what a risk assessment and control guide can look like when completed.
The section below details the hierarchy of controls as applied to the management of the risks of COVID-19.
Elimination of the hazard is the most effective measure to reduce risks. This may mean conducting all, or some, work remotely off the ship rather than on the ship. All PCBUs should continue to review work routines in order to eliminate the need to go on board. There are currently no substitution risk controls identified. Isolation controls could include segregation of crew and border workers. Engineering controls which could include radios/telephones/email communication methods serve to avoid the need for face to face communication. The use of approved surface disinfectants and dispensers are other examples of engineering controls. The risk of contracting COVID-19 can also be reduced through administrative controls such as: minimising the onboard element of the work, training, supervision, monitoring, use of standard operating procedures, physical distancing, testing, vaccinating, reducing time spent in close contact, implementing good hygiene practices and limiting the number of personnel needed on board whenever possible. PPE is at the bottom of the hierarchy of controls. Where risks can’t be managed so far as reasonably practicable using controls higher up the hierarchy, appropriate PPE must be used. PPE must be worn (or used) in accordance with this guidance. However, PPE should not be the only selected control. PPE should be used in conjunction with the more effective controls listed above.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 8 of 26 4. Obligations on workers when undertaking necessary tasks on a ship
4.1 Requirements under the Maritime Border Order
1. Clause 25 of the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Maritime Border) Order (No 2) 2020 requires that a person who undertakes a necessary task and who boards a ship that is in isolation or quarantine must take reasonable steps to minimise the risk of an outbreak, or the spread, of COVID-19, including by:
a) maintaining physical distancing (to the greatest extent practicable, at least 2 metres) from any person who is in isolation or quarantine on the ship; and b) minimising (to the greatest extent practicable) the time that the person spends on the ship; and c) wearing personal protective equipment of a type, and in a manner, consistent with guidance provided by the regulator for their industry. 2. PCBUs should support workers to meet these obligations by implementing the risk management and control procedures described at Section 3 of this guidance. PCBUs should put appropriate controls in place. For large PCBUs with many staff, these controls should include standard operating procedures, training and monitoring of worker’s use of PPE to ensure that they are wearing PPE of a type, and in a manner, consistent with this guidance.
Even when all obligations under Clause 25 are met, a worker may still cease, or refuse to carry out, work if the worker believes that the work could pose a serious risk to their own health and safety or the health and safety of another person.
Maritime New Zealand has determined that a gangway, ramp, ladder or other equipment or installation used as a means of boarding or disembarking a ship, is part of the ship for the purposes of MBO (No 2). A person on a gangway, ramp, ladder or similar is deemed to be aboard the ship.
Certain persons are authorised by Section 18 of the COVID-19 Public Health Response Act 2020 to enforce compliance with Health Orders during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the requirements for PPE. In New Zealand ports, these persons may be Customs officers, Police constables or WorkSafe inspectors.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 9 of 26 5. Boarding a ship to undertake a necessary task
See Part two of this guidance for detailed information on appropriate use of gloves, masks and a range of hygiene controls. The information below is for persons boarding a ship to undertake a necessary task. 5.1 Boarding the vessel
1. When boarding and disembarking the ship via traditional gangways2 workers should maintain physical distancing of at least 2 metres, sanitise their hands and/or wear gloves, and wear either a well-fitting medical mask or a non-medical mask.
d) Medical masks are strongly recommended for persons who have underlying medical conditions. If you may interact with a person who may pose a COVID-19 risk you should wear a medical mask. For example, pilots, agents and stevedore foreman should wear a medical mask. e) A non-medical mask (fabric) may be worn by those who do not have underlying medical conditions and who have minimal or no interaction with persons that may pose a COVID- 19 risk and after a risk assessment has been undertaken by the PCBU. For example, stevedores working on the deck of the ship who have minimal to no interaction with crew may wear a non-medical mask. (See Appendix 3 for more information about non-medical fabric masks and how to wear and launder them.) 1. Workers should not access the gangway if others are coming up or down it in the opposite direction. People moving in the same direction on the gangway should physically distance themselves from crew.
2. After stepping off the gangway onto the ship’s main deck and signing in at the ship’s security desk (as applicable), workers should ensure they sanitise their hands. Replace any disposable gloves if these are required. Workers should ensure that they continue to wear a medical face mask until away from crew.
3. Face masks (either medical or non-medical) must be worn when transiting between work areas and tasks while on the vessel if a minimum of 2 metres distance cannot be maintained from crew. Workers should sanitise their hands upon reaching and prior to leaving each work area.
4. When reporting to a work area, follow the PCBU’s procedures for reducing the risk of contracting COVID-19.
5. Properly retain or dispose of PPE when not required to be worn.
6. Non-disposable PPE such as work gloves (cloth or leather) must be disinfected after use in high-traffic areas aboard the ship where crew are known to transit. Items such as reusable particulate respirators must be cleaned according to the manufacturers’ instructions.
7. PCBUs should make hand sanitiser available to workers while on the ship at appropriate locations. 8. If wearing gloves in work areas such as crane cabs, work areas still need to be cleaned and disinfected. The worker needs to be satisfied the crane cab or other similar work areas and surfaces are clean, or ensure that it is cleaned prior to use.
2 Where this guideline refers to boarding a ship, this means boarding via a gangway. Boarding via a pilot ladder at sea presents other issues that are not addressed by this guideline.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 10 of 26 5. Boarding a ship to undertake a necessary task (continued)
5.2 Safely undertaking tasks
PCBUs must create a risk-based approach to applying appropriate controls for workers undertaking necessary tasks on affected ships. In practice, this means that when accessing ‘higher risk’ areas, workers should be instructed to wear the appropriate PPE and where possible continue to use other infection prevention control measures such as sanitising of hands.3 Higher risk areas
The following areas are higher risk, even if workers are just passing:
the gangway the sign-in area the accommodation block and other enclosed areas where distancing may be challenging Appropriate PPE
PCBUs must provide workers with adequate supplies of disposable gloves, masks and hand sanitiser. It is important that facemasks are put on, worn, removed and disposed of correctly. Re-usable PPE such as work gloves (cloth or leather) should be cleaned or sanitised and items such as reusable particulate respirators must be cleaned according to the manufacturers’ instructions after use aboard the ship.
New Zealand PCBUs must ensure that all workers going on board a ship continue to have access to PPE to control the risks on the ship that are not COVID-19 related. Workers boarding an affected ship to undertake a necessary task must wear a medical or non-medical mask.
When selecting PPE, PCBUs must make sure it is:
suitable for the nature of the work and any risks associated with the work a suitable size and fit and reasonably comfortable (e.g. does a worker wear prescription glasses, have facial hair or other features that could affect how well PPE fits?) compatible with any other PPE a worker is required to wear or use compatible with any industry-specific requirements or standards and aware of and manages any new risks arising from wearing PPE (e.g. wearing hearing protection may mean workers will not hear vehicles approaching).
3 Refer to Part two of this guideline for a description of infection prevention measures for maritime border workers.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 11 of 26 5. Boarding a ship to undertake a necessary task (continued)
Outside of ‘higher risk’ areas
Although the risk is more variable outside of higher risk areas, a dynamic approach to risk should be applied.
When 2 metres distance from crew cannot be maintained, or when transiting the vessel between work areas/tasks and the possibility of contact with crew is unknown, PPE must be worn (even if personnel are just passing for a few seconds). When more than 2 metres distance from crew can always be maintained, no PPE is required to be worn other than PPE required as per normal for job.
Sanitise and protect your hands Wear a face mask (medical or non-medical) Maintain your distance Minimise the time spent on the ship
More stringent controls should be used by anyone entering the accommodation block for any reason. The specifics of the PPE are to be determined based on the outcome of a risk assessment undertaken by the PCBU for the planned activity/task.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 12 of 26 6 Maritime border worker testing, vaccinations and the roles of Government agencies
Workers at the New Zealand border face higher risks of exposure to COVID-19 than most other workers. Regular testing is part of our rapid response to detect any cases so we can eliminate COVID-19. It protects the health of workers, their families and whānau and the wider community. 6.1 Regular health checks and asymptomatic testing
The COVID-19 Public Health Response (Required Testing) Order 2020 requires routine testing of specified border workers for COVID-19 at ports. Workers who are listed in schedule 2 of the Required Testing Order must have COVID tests as specified in the testing order. More information about COVID- 19 testing for maritime workers is available from the Ministry of Health here. PCBUs must ensure their workers are properly advised about access to testing and how often testing is required.
PCBUs of workers who board or interact with the crew of foreign ships should be undertaking regular health checks of their staff. This should include asking staff if they have symptoms consistent with COVID-19. If any symptoms are reported, the staff member should be instructed to seek medical assessment, get tested and advise their doctor that they are a border-facing worker.
6.2 Staff sickness
PCBUs should make workers aware they should not go to work if unwell or have any COVID-19 symptoms (eg. cough, cold, sneezing, flu-like symptoms, etc). Workers should contact their healthcare provider or Healthline (Free on 0800 611 116) and get tested. Workers should inform their employer. If workers become unwell while at work/on board inform your supervisor / manager immediately. 6.3 Vaccinations
The Ministry of Heath will confirm the worker’s contact details through Ministry of Health records and the worker’s employer. These will be added to the COVID-19 Immunisation Register and shared with DHB health workers. A health worker from the worker’s regional DHB will then get in touch and invite the worker to be vaccinated.
Vaccinations will be available onsite at or near the worker’s place of work. More information about the New Zealand COVID-19 vaccination plan is available here.
Border workers who have been vaccinated, are still expected to comply with the IPC protocols in Part two.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 13 of 26 6. Maritime border worker testing, vaccinations (continued)
6.4 Roles of Customs, Police, WorkSafe and Maritime NZ
Customs officers, Police constables, WorkSafe inspectors, medical officers of health, members of the armed forces, and COVID-19 Enforcement Officers have been given certain powers of enforcement under the COVID-19 Public Health Response Act 2020. These include the powers of entry (except to a dwelling house), to give directions, and to require persons to provide identifying information. Police constables also have additional powers in relation to road closure, vehicle stopping, and business closure. These powers may be exercised by an enforcement officer where they have reasonable grounds to believe that a COVID-19 Order is not being complied with, or where necessary for the purposes of enforcement of the applicable Order. These powers are supported by a range of infringement offences.
WorkSafe is the health and safety regulator for work in New Zealand’s ports. Matters of health and safety in ports and other workplaces (exclusive of shipboard work) should be directed to WorkSafe and all notifiable incidents must be reported. WorkSafe inspectors also have powers of enforcement.
Maritime NZ is the designated health and safety regulator for work on board ships and for ships as workplaces. Matters of health and safety in the shipboard workplace should be directed to Maritime NZ and all notifiable incidents must be reported.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 14 of 26 Part two: Infection prevention controls
Part two explains infection prevention controls for New Zealand PCBUs and their workers who board ships to undertake necessary tasks. This only applies to ships that have arrived in New Zealand that have persons on board who are in isolation or quarantine. The COVID-19 Public Health Response (Maritime Border) Order (No 2) 2020 requires individuals who board affected ships to wear PPE and maintain physical distancing. The PPE and physical distancing controls described in Part two are legal requirements. The remaining infection prevention controls in Part two are best practice controls that workers should use to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19. Part two was developed based on material provided by the Ministry of Health.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 15 of 26 7. Infection prevention controls
Summary of key infection prevention control measures
If you develop COVID-19 symptoms, do not go to work, wherever you are, contact Healthline 0800 358 5453 or your doctor immediately and have a test.
Perform hand hygiene frequently using either soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid any handshakes or physical contact between persons outside your bubble.
Cough or sneeze into crook of your elbow or a tissue.
Avoid touching your face.
Maintain physical distancing of 2 metres or more.
Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and frequently touched objects.
Wear PPE at the maritime border when physical distancing is not possible.
All maritime border workers are required to undergo regular surveillance testing. Please contact your manager for more information about this.
7.1 Hand Hygiene (best practice)
Hand hygiene is the most essential hygiene measure that minimises transmission of infectious droplets from one person to another and to other surfaces. Hand hygiene includes either washing (with soap and water) and drying hands thoroughly or using alcohol-based hand rub containing a minimum of 60% alcohol. This must be performed frequently by maritime border workers and is critically important when the risk of exposure to infection is unknown. Avoid any handshakes or physical contact between persons outside your bubble.
Hand hygiene should be performed by all personnel and at the following key times:
before and after boarding or disembarking a ship after leaving container stacks, crane cabs, cargo holds and other areas of the ship before putting on personal protection equipment (PPE) after removal of PPE (including any type of glove) after disposal of PPE before and after eating and drinking before and after other rest breaks before and after using toilet / bathroom.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 16 of 26 7. Infection prevention controls (continued)
7.2 Coughing or sneezing (best practice)
Remember to cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow, or cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Dispose of tissues into a lined general waste bin. Wash / clean your hands. 7.3 Avoid touching your face (best practice)
Respiratory droplets and secretions may contain ‘live’ virus particles When these droplets containing the virus settle on surrounding objects and surfaces, you can get infected if you touch objects or surfaces with droplets and then touch your eyes, nose or mouth. Avoiding touching your face and performing regular hand hygiene reduces the risk of this happening.
Hands can transfer virus after touching surfaces contaminated with infectious droplets. 7.4 Physical distancing (required)
Physical distancing is about keeping a safe distance from others. COVID-19 can spread from person to person through close physical contact.
Where possible, physical distancing of more than 2 metres is recommended. Maritime border workers should maintain physical distancing among other staff in shared spaces. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Certain jobs already require specific PPE to be used to protect against workplace hazards and can include (but is not limited to) masks or particulate respirators4, eye protection5, footwear, hard hat, protective clothing and gloves. 7.5 Gloves (required if not performing hand hygiene)
Regular hand hygiene is preferable to use of disposable gloves. Inappropriate or incorrect use of disposable gloves can increase spread of the virus. Remove and discard disposable gloves safely and perform hand hygiene after removal. If using disposable gloves is required in the work environment under HSWA, continue to practice good hand hygiene. A disinfectant wipe can be used to clean reusable heavy-duty work gloves at the end of daily use and place cleaned gloves into a clean disposable bag. Do not clean gloves with soap / water or use alcohol - based hand sanitiser on gloves.
4 Respirators –Follow local PCBU and HSWA advice 5 Prescription glasses are not classed as protective eye wear
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 17 of 26 7. Infection prevention controls (continued)
7.6 Medical masks (required)
How to use a medical mask safely
A medical or procedure mask is flat or pleated and is attached to the head with straps that go around the ears or head or both. Its performance characteristics are tested according to a set of standardised test methods (ASTM F2100 Level 1, 2 or 3, EN 14683 Type II, or equivalent) that aim to balance high filtration, adequate breathability and optionally, fluid penetration resistance. Medical masks must comply with AS 4381:2015 or international equivalent.
A well-fitting medical mask should fit snugly and fully cover the nose and mouth. This provides protection from droplets produced by the wearer because these are contained within the mask. It also protects the wearer from infectious respiratory droplets produced when a person within 1 meter of the wearer coughs or sneezes.
Your employer will supply you with the correct face mask for you to use. Practice other basic hygiene measures at all times and maintain physical distancing of 2 metres from others wherever possible when wearing a mask.
It is important that facemasks are put on, worn, removed and disposed of correctly. Medical face masks should not be folded and placed in pockets for re-use, as these are deemed to be single use masks.
1 How to put on a medical face mask (Refer to Appendix 1)
1. Clean your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser. Ensure your hands are dry before touching the mask.
2. Check there are no obvious tears or holes in either side of the mask.
3. Place the medical face mask over your nose and mouth and secure with ties or ear loops.
3.1 For a medical face mask with ties: bring the mask to your nose level and place the top ties over the crown of your head and secure with a bow. Once you have made sure that the mask fits snugly, moulded to your face and around your nose, fully covering your nose mouth and chin then take the bottom ties, one in each hand, and secure with a bow at the nape of your neck.
4. Make sure the mask fits snugly, moulded to your face and around your nose. Make sure the mask fully covers your nose, mouth and chin. Your mask should be comfortable, with no gaps around the mask and your face, and allow you to breathe easily.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 18 of 26 7. Infection prevention controls (continued)
2 While wearing a medical face mask
1. Do not touch the front of the medical face mask. If you do, clean your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser (containing at least 60 percent alcohol). Ensure your hands are dry.
2. Avoid touching your face, as infection can still be introduced by touching your eyes, mouth or nose, or if you are not wearing your medical face mask correctly.
3. Medical face masks should not be moved or adjusted during use. This includes being pulled up or pulled down below your chin. If you need to remove your mask - remove it safely (as below), dispose of it appropriately and clean your hands.
4. Replace the medical face mask every 4 hours or earlier if it becomes damp, damaged or soiled.
3 How to remove a medical face mask and dispose of it safely (Refer to Appendix 2)
1. Use hand sanitiser or clean your hands with soap and water. Ensure your hands are dry.
2. Remove the medical face mask from behind by untying ties (do not touch the front of the mask) or removing loops and pulling it away from your face. Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose and mouth when removing your mask.
3. Dispose in a lined general waste bin or place into a bag and seal before putting into a lined general waste bin.
4. Clean your hands again after disposing of the mask (as above).
7.7 Order for putting on PPE (required)
1. Perform hand hygiene.
2. Put on mask.
3. Put on gloves (If required). 7.8 Order for removing PPE (required)
1. Remove gloves (If wearing).
2. Perform hand hygiene.
3. Remove mask.
4. Perform hand hygiene.
COVID-19 Guidance for NZ PCBUs and their workers aboard affected ships Page 19 of 26 8. Cleaning
Environmental cleaning is essential to reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19. Frequently touched areas and hard surfaces can become contaminated with infectious droplets from the nose and mouth. Hands can be contaminated after contact with these surfaces.
Cleaning of common areas is an important factor in removing the virus and should be done either as part of the ship’s cleaning schedule or by an individual working in an area or using equipment on the ship.
The COVID-19 virus is easily killed by regular cleaning and disinfection methods and solutions. Regular and thorough cleaning with a detergent/disinfectant will remove infectious particles and prevent transmission of infection to other surfaces, to yourself, your colleagues, and other people. 8.1 Basic principles of cleaning and disinfection (best practice)
Cleaning is necessary to remove dirt and infectious particles before using a disinfectant. A combined detergent/disinfectant product can be used. If dirt and infectious matter is not removed properly, they can reduce the ability of disinfectants to kill germs (bacteria and viruses). Cleaning physically removes germs, dirt and infectious particles from surfaces using a detergent and water solution; disinfectants use chemicals to kill residual germs on surfaces.
Use approved cleaning and disinfectant products e.g. hypochlorite disinfectants (bleach, etc.) All cleaning products must be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, including any additional PPE requirements. If using products that can be used for both cleaning and disinfecting, make sure that the instructions on the label are followed to ensure they will work effectively. For further advice, refer to:
https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19- information-specific-audiences/covid-19-general-cleaning-and-disinfection-advice/covid-19-cleaning- frequently-asked-questions
Any surfaces that are frequently touched should be prioritized for cleaning, such as door handles, handrails, light switches, horizontal surfaces such as counter tops and tables, touch screens, taps, sinks and toilets. However, all touchable surfaces should be cleaned.
When cleaning tasks are completed, staff should carefully remove disposable gloves and wash / sanitise their hands. Clean staff communal areas regularly after use. Surfaces that have been touched such as tables or desks in staff meeting/hand over rooms should be cleaned. There are no additional laundry requirements.
Emergency evacuations
In the event of an emergency evacuation, maritime border workers should be familiar with the port/ ship’s evacuation plans. If possible, maritime border workers should put on a face mask when disembarking from the ship and physically distance from crew members that are not part of your work group once at the evacuation point.
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9. Contact us
Maritime NZ is continuing to monitor the situation and will update this guidance as appropriate. Maritime NZ will maintain contact with the industry and can be contacted by email at:
[email protected] Additional information Stay informed. Use these resources for more information on worker exposures to COVID- 19: Ministry of Health Maritime New Zealand WorkSafe New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment New Zealand Customs Service International Maritime Organization International Labour Organization International Chamber of Shipping BIMCO International Marine Pilots’ Association
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Appendix 1:
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Appendix 2:
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Appendix 3: Non-medical (fabric) masks
Non-medical (fabric) masks
A non-medical fabric mask is a fabric reusable mask that has:
three layers, appropriate filtration, breathability and fit, no exhalation valve (an exhalation valve reduces the protection provided by a fabric reusable mask), and is not likely to be certified according to an international quality standard. Non-medical masks do not offer the same level of protection as a medical mask. Non-medical fabric masks can be used by workers without underlying conditions. Non-medical masks should only be considered where there is minimal or no interaction with persons that may pose a COVID-19 risk and after a risk assessment has been undertaken by the PCBU.
Employees should always be given the option of either wearing a medical mask, over a non-medical mask and in accordance with the above guidance on who should wear one.
Selecting non-medical (fabric) masks
Employers wishing to supply staff with a non - medical face mask should refer to the WHO guidance document “Mask use in the context of COVID-19: Interim guidance”
As with medical masks, employees need to have a personal supply to ensure they have enough for their shift, they have instructions on how to launder and care for the mask as aligned with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Non-medical masks need to be changed when they become damp or soiled. They should be inspected by the user to ensure they are not damaged.
How to put on and wear a non-medical (fabric) mask6:
Before touching the mask, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. Inspect the mask for tears or holes, do not use a mask that is damaged. Adjust the mask to cover your mouth, nose, and chin, leaving no gaps on the sides. Place the straps behind your head or ears. Do not cross the straps because this can cause gaps on the side of your face. Avoid touching the mask while wearing it. If you touch it, clean your hands. Change your mask if it gets dirty or wet.
6 https://covid19.govt.nz/assets/resources/posters/COVID-19_poster_face-covering-wear_A4.pdf
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Appendix 3 (continued)
How to take off and store a non-medical (fabric) mask:
Clean your hands before taking off the mask. Take off the mask by removing it from the ear loops, without touching the front of the mask. If your fabric mask is not dirty or wet and you plan to reuse it, put it in a clean plastic, resealable bag. If you need to use it again, hold the mask at the elastic loops when removing it from the bag. Clean your mask once a day. Clean your hands after removing the mask.
How to launder a non-medical (fabric) mask:
1. Wash the mask in a washing machine with detergent at 60 degrees Celsius. 2. After putting the mask in the washing machine, clean your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser (containing at least 60 percent alcohol). Ensure your hands are dry. 3. If you do not have a washing machine wash the mask by hand, or boil mask for at least one minute. (follow the steps above for cleaning your hands. 4. Dry the mask completely before you use it again. Do not use a damp mask.
General tips:
Make sure to clean your hands before touching your mask. Make sure you have your own mask and do not share it with others. Resist the temptation to pull down your mask to your chin or take if off when speaking to other people. Do not store your mask around your arm or wrist or pull it down to rest around your chin or neck. Instead, store it in a clean plastic bag.
Other resources:
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers- hub/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-masks ) https://www.health.govt.nz/system/files/documents/pages/hp7433_- _facemask_poster_v4_05_v2.pdf https://covid19.govt.nz/assets/resources/posters/COVID-19_poster_face-covering- remove_A4.pdf https://www.health.govt.nz/system/files/documents/pages/hp7414_- _how_to_wear_a_mask_v3.pdf
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Disposable Alcohol Physical Notes Activity/Environment Potential Risks Risk Level Mask Gloves Sanitiser Distancing 1 Moderate 2 Contact with handrails ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 3 Boarding or disembarking the ship 4 Interaction with other people on the Moderate/High 1 ✓ ✓ gangway 4 1 Interaction with security watch High ✓ ✓ ✓ 3 Checking in at the ship security station 4 Use of pen and log book if required to sign 1 High ✓ ✓ ✓ in entry to the vessel Working or meeting in the ship’s Close proximity to crew members High ✓ 4 accommodation, business, navigation, Contact with surfaces (hand railings, 1 High ✓ ✓ ✓ engineering or other internal spaces furniture, desk tops etc.) Working on deck Close proximity to crew members High ✓ 4 Close proximity to crew members High ✓ 4 Working in cargo holds Contact with surfaces. Low ✓ 3 Interaction with crew required while lashing 4 Working on container stacks High ✓ containers Close proximity to crew members High ✓ 4 3 Operating ships’ cranes Contact with surfaces. Moderate/Low ✓ ✓
Table 1: Notional risk assessment and control guide for undertaking an essential task aboard an affected ship PCBUs must continue to follow key principles of HSWA to identify and control potential risks that are not COVID-19 related. Notes: 1. Use of either gloves or hand sanitiser may be appropriate 2. PPE supply made available by PCBU 3. Sanitise hands post-activity 4. When distancing more than 2m is not possible, the proximity to crew members is considered high risk
A New Zealand PCBU should perform a risk assessment similar to the above matrix for each ship and each shift to determine when and where workers must use PPE and other controls while aboard the ship. These risk assessments must be communicated to workers, strictly enforced and appropriately recorded.
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