Morocco Prepares for Reduced Influx of Expatriates with New Maritime Safety Measures

In anticipation of this influx, certainly much less important than in other years, the authorities are imposing drastic measures, particularly for shipowners. Here they are, as they were discussed during a videoconference of the Merchant Navy.

The shipowner must equip the ships and take the following measures:
• Thorough disinfection of the ships;
• Floor marking to allow social distancing of passengers of one meter or 4m2:
✓ Communicate to the DMM the revised capacity based on the measures relating to social distancing,
✓ If revised capacity > 50%, demonstrate and confirm that appropriate mitigation measures are in place.
• Isolation space in case of declaration during the journey, of a case of contamination;
• Avoid exposure of food products (open buffets) to passengers in catering areas;
• Accessible facilities to wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Sufficient number of alcohol-based hand sanitizer dispensers;
• Replacement of air conditioning by ventilation;
• Awareness and familiarization of seafarers with the plans and procedures of their ship concerning the protection of their health and that of passengers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The operators are called upon to take the following measures on board:

• Adaptation of the seating arrangement on board respecting the social distancing of one meter (Mark the seats to be kept empty by appropriate means);
• Marking indication of circulation on the ground to avoid contacts and maintain the recommended distancing;
• On-board services (catering, accommodation, shops) must be carried out in compliance with the rules of safety and prevention, paying the utmost attention to social distancing.
• It is recommended to equip the main contact points with passengers with plexiglass screens.
• Installation of hand sanitizer dispensers at the entrance to common areas;
• Dissemination of information on board (posters, videos and announcements): hygiene rules, wearing masks, social distancing of one meter, .....);