Shipbuilder Damen has created a 24/7 Covid-19 disinfection service for ships. The Dutch shipbuilder wants to help shipowners meet current needs now the World Health Organisation (WHO) advises the entire ship is disinfected when there is a case of Covid-19 on board. 

The service will be carried out by Damen Shiprepair Harbour & Voyage (DSHV), the mobile ship repair squad of the company.

The disinfection service is based on WHO-approved methods using stabilized hydrogen peroxide. The solution is colourless and odourless and causes no damages on the interior or surfaces, Damen says. The service has already been successfully performed for the cruise sector but can be provided to any type of vessel.

“As with a lot of viruses, the coronavirus can be spread more easily onboard a ship. People are in close proximity to each other on a vessel and self-isolation can be more difficult in such a limited space. With this service we are looking to assist our clients through this challenging time”, says Jozeph Quak, managing director of the mobile repair squad.

In order to provide this service, DSHV says it has implemented robust safety measures which are continually updated per the latest rules and regulations. These include maintaining a safe distance between personnel at all times. This is based on the national guidelines in the country in which DSHV is operating, but not less than 1.5 metres. The service can be provided alongside as well as during the voyage according to client requirements.

Personnel is required to observe strict hygiene requirements and wear high-quality PPE. DSHV sets up two separate and isolated areas. These safety zones are used prior to attendance and after disembarking of the vessel and will include facilities for washing, disinfecting and dressing and undressing of PPE.