Cargoes at Sea During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Guidance on fumigating bulk cargoes on vessels is provided in the IMO Circular MSC.1/Circ.1264 – Recommendations on the safe use of pesticides in ships applicable to the fumigation of cargo holds, and it is always recommended that these are strictly followed. It requires fumigation to be conducted by qualified operators and states that the crew should not handle fumigants.

Fumigation in-transit

Fumigation in-transit is common and designated crew receive basic training from the fumigator-in-charge. In these cases, the fumigator-in-charge will initiate fumigation and remain on board long enough to allow the gas concentrations to build up to a level where testing for leaks can be carried out. Once it has been confirmed that the vessel is safe and no leaks are present, then the fumigator in charge will formally hand over the operation to the Master.