Over the last few years and particularly since the start of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic there has been an increase in cases of shipping companies finding it difficult to repatriate the bodies or ashes of deceased seafarers quickly enough, and in accordance with the religious beliefs and customs of both the deceased seafarer and their next of kin. This guide sets out the core considerations for dealing with a death on board and details common burial practices for some of the world's leading religions.
June 2022
Guidelines | Free
This document sets out principles for providing shore leave during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. It contains information on the international maritime obligations surrounding the provision of shore leave by state authorities and shipowners, and for seafarers.
April 2022
Guidelines | Free
This first edition was withdrawn in April 2022 and replaced by the second edition. This document sets out principles for providing shore leave during the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
September 2021
Archive | Free
These guidelines have been produced to help shipping companies choose reputable manning agencies and
to ensure that seafarers are recruited in line with the requirements of the ILO Maritime Labour Convention
2006 (MLC, 2006).
September 2021
Guidelines | Free
This Third Edition was withdrawn in June 2021 and replaced by Coronavirus (COVID-19): Guidance for Ship Operators for the Protection of the Health of Seafarers, Fourth Edition.
November 2020
Archive | Free
Aim to safeguard the health of seafarers and guarantee the safe operations of maritime trade – offering governments and the general public reassurance that seafarers can embark and disembark ships safely. Published by ICS, IMHA and INTERTANKO.
August 2020
Guidelines | Free
Guidance to support all types of ships which operate in international waters. Note: This second version from May 2020 has been replaced by an updated version 'Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance for Ship Operators for the Protection of the Health of Seafarers, v3'
May 2020
Archive | Free
Guidance from ICS and other major bodies addressing major concerns and expectations of ships’ crews and shore-based personnel during the coronavirus pandemic through the implementation of practical, risk-based measures. Guidelines – May 2020
May 2020
Guidelines | Free
Age discrimination is no joke and can affect individuals of all ages in any field of work, including the shipping industry. It can lead to decreased motivation and increased sickness and can compromise cohesive and effective teamwork. It can also negatively affect companies resulting in potential organisational, economic and legal consequences. These new guidelines will help ship operators understand the different types of age discrimination, whether direct or indirect, and show how this can be avoided with respect to recruitment, training, pay and promotion, as well as redundancy and retirement.
January 2020
Guidelines | Free
This ICS publication is the comprehensive and definitive guide to MLC compliance for anyone involved with the employment of seafarers, including shipping companies, ship managers and crewing agents.
May 2019
Guidelines | £115
