In an effort to control the spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus, ports in China are being closed to visitors. As a result, the ability to undertake dry inspections in these ports may be affected as a result, as our inspectors are ceasing travel and inspection work until infection numbers fall and restrictions are lifted.
At RightShip, we place the health and wellbeing of our staff and contract partners at the fore, and understand that vessel operators have a duty to protect their crews and limit exposure to health risks such as those associated with Coronavirus.
Our response aims to minimise this risk by limiting travel to at-risk areas, and we will abide by government restrictions placed on at-risk ports.
We are monitoring restrictions for impacted ports on a day-by-day basis , and we will be in contact with those requesting inspections in this region as further information becomes available.
In the interim, we suggest that ship operators take advice from local agents and, if applicable, lodge requests for inspection as usual. RightShip will investigate the feasibility of the inspection and respond accordingly. If inspection is not possible, Rightship will endeavour to provide alternative courses of action.
For more information, please contact dryinspections@rightship.com
FAQs
Is RightShip conducting inspections in China during the coronavirus outbreak?
RightShip is currently working closely with partners, ports and vessel operators to understand the risk of exposure to coronavirus at various ports in China. We are placing the health and wellbeing of our staff and partners first. As a result, our capacity to carry out inspections is impacted at this time.
What is RightShip doing to minimise risk?
RightShip is currently guided by the advice of local representatives. We are also consistently monitoring government restrictions on a day-by-day basis. In order to minimise risk, we’re minimising travel to at-risk locations and ports. Unfortunately, if we have to refuse an inspection due to risk, we will do so.
What happens if an inspection is refused?
This will depend on the circumstances. If it’s not possible to undertake the inspection due to risk at port, we will explore alternatives such as: deferring the inspection to a later date, arranging an inspection at alternative location, working with operators to review inspection-equivalent data and working with operators on their proposed alternatives.
When will RightShip’s inspection process in China return to normal?
The short answer is that we don’t know at this stage. We are consistently in communication with local agents, representatives and government officials to ensure we have the most up-to-date information. Our team will provide key updates as they come to hand.
While we would like to be operating at full capacity as soon as possible, implementing the necessary safety measures is essential. We trust vessel operators are protecting their crews and limiting exposure. We all have a part to play in mitigating the spread of this infection.
For more information about inspections at ports in China, please contact dryinspections@rightship.com