By
Alex Smith |
Classification society DNV GL has launched a new certification programme to help shipowners prove that they have taken precautions to prevent the spread of infection onboard their vessels.
The custom certification aims to help the maritime industry resume operations by better preparing for the emergence of pathogens such as Covid-19. The CIP-M programme will enable operators to demonstrate they have procedures and systems in place for the prevention, control and mitigation of infection.
“The Covid-19 crisis has been unprecedented in its impact on the maritime industry, and on the cruise lines in particular,” said Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV GL Maritime. “But I hope that with innovative ideas like CIP-M we can help the industry get moving again in a way that gives passengers and crew confidence that exacting measures are in place to enhance the cruise industry’s already rigorous health and safety standards.”
The CIP-M certification is customised from DNV GL’s work in auditing hospitals in the USA. It integrates maritime specific standards, such as the USA’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Vessel Sanitation Program. DNV GL assesses vessel operations, including enhanced sanitation procedures, use of personal protective equipment, pre-boarding screening and itinerary or port planning protocols. Annual onboard surveys and company audits onshore are conducted to verify continued compliance.
Genting Cruise Lines is the first customer to begin working towards the certification with a pre-assessment of its management system to be followed by a survey of Explorer Dream. The cruise line aims to complete the programme by the end of June.
“At Genting Cruise Lines, the safety and well-being of our guests and crew are of paramount importance to us,” said Kent Zhu, president of Genting Cruise Lines. “From the onset of the pandemic, Genting Cruise Lines has been at the forefront in enhancing its preventive and safety measures with the Covid-19 pandemic in mind. We are proud to continue to pioneer such an important collaboration with DNV GL, which is a first for the cruise and maritime industry.”