IN line with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) efforts to prevent the spread of the Novel Coronavirus, Transnet SOC Ltd has implemented additional procedures for all vessels entering South African ports.
The Coronavirus has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organisation.
Transnet is the custodian of ports and terminals in the country and it is responsible for monitoring all vessels. This is done through its divisions, the Transnet National Ports Authority and Transnet Port Terminals.
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Transnet SOC Ltd has instituted strict health measures and is working with the Department of Health (DoH) and the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) to monitor the outbreak.
The following additional measures have been implemented to safeguard South Africa’s ports:
• All foreign vessels entering the ports must receive free pratique by the Port Health Department and details of the last 10 ports of call are to be recorded.
• During the warning period, all South African Citizens – including marine pilots – are to refrain from consuming foods and liquids on board vessels from high-risk areas.
• Should reports of infection be reported on board a vessel, the vessel may dock. However, no persons will be permitted to go on-board until Port Health has cleared the vessel.
• All waste from the vessels from affected areas will be incinerated and not accepted ashore
• All yachts arriving in the country from all areas must reported to South African Police Services and Port Health Department. The skipper is to be informed to ensure that he and his crew remain isolated on-board the vessel until cleared by Port Health
• TNPA marine pilots to use appropriate medical masks and gloves when receiving vessels from affected areas.
Read also: VIDEO: China to open new hospital as virus death toll passes 360
Additionally, Transnet port health employees have been sensitised to government’s national response plan to diagnose infected persons and refer them to designated sites/hospitals.
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