DNV GL has launched a new certification in infection prevention for the maritime industry.
The release of this custom certification aims to help the maritime industry resume operations and at the same time be better prepared for Covid-19 or other emerging pathogens.
Hong Kong-based Genting Cruise Lines is the first customer working towards the CIP-M certification for the vessel Explorer Dream under the Dream Cruises brand.
CIP-M builds on DNV GL Healthcare's work in infection risk management, which has been ongoing since 2008. With more than 4,000 audits performed in US hospitals, this work, which is inherent to the company's accreditation program, helps organisations improve their management of infection risk.
Experts from DNV GL's Cruise Center in Miami customised the healthcare CIP for use in a maritime setting in cooperation with DNV GL – Business Assurance.
The CIP-M also integrates maritime specific standards, such as the US CDC Vessel Sanitation Program, as well as incorporating national and industry guidelines.
The certification surveys and audits will be performed by DNV GL surveyor teams comprised of DNV GL – Healthcare infection prevention and control experts together with experienced maritime auditors.
As part of the CIP-M certification, DNV GL assesses vessel operations, including enhanced sanitation procedures, food preparation and handling, physical distancing requirements, use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by crewmembers, maintenance of public health essential systems, emergency response plans, pre-boarding screening, embarkation and debarkation processes, and itinerary or port planning protocols. Annual surveys onboard and company audits ashore are conducted to verify continued compliance and improvement.
The CIP-M assessment of Genting Cruise Lines has already commenced with a pre-assessment of the company's management system, to be followed by a certification survey of Explorer Dream. The company is targeting successful completion of the certification programme by the end of June 2020.