By Betheena Unite
Ship owners and operators were directed to take necessary measures against the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in their respective areas a day after the first case of the disease was confirmed in the Philippines.
(EPA-EFE/ALEX PLAVEVSKI / MANILA BULLETIN)
In an advisory, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) advised all ship owners and operators and other concerned entities to take necessary measures to monitor the contagious disease.
All ship owners and operators were also encouraged to report suspected cases of NCoV, install necessary medical equipment in their areas, and equip their personnel, including the officers and crew onboard ships, with full information about the virus.
The agency, for its part, has put in place strict health monitoring procedures such as body temperature tests for people entering the MARINA building, and the provision of alcohol dispensers at its entrances and comfort rooms to ensure the safety of the seafarers, clients, and personnel of MARINA.
All frontline personnel have started wearing the prescribed masks while all escalator handrails, elevators, railings, and similar facilities are being regularly sanitized.