In response to the threat of the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, this Guidance has been produced by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) to support all types of ships which operate in international waters. The purpose is to help shipping companies follow the advice provided by United Nations agencies including the World Health Organization(WHO), the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), as well as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) notes the continued increase in the reach and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its debilitating impact on the global community. The Jamaica Ship Registry (JSR) is steadfast in providing ‘A Commitment to Quality’ in serving our Clients more so during this period. To this end, we continue to remain functional with a small Team providing service in Office. Several persons also continue to work from home to provide the level of service to which we are committed.

The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) as Jamaica’s marine administration, is committed to its mission to promote high standards of maritime competence, safety, security and protection of the marine environment.

As the provider of critical service, the MAJ has been monitoring the spread of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). We assure our public, that the health and safety of our customers and staff is our highest priority.

The Seismic Research Centre (SRC), University of the West Indies has reported that the activity levels at the Kick ‘em Jenny underwater volcano has reduced significantly. Since 6:00 p.m., on Saturday July 25th, no activity has been recorded.  As a result of this, the alert level for the volcano has been reduced to Yellow. 

The attention of all interests is directed to the referenced IMO circular, on ‘Zika Virus Disease’, the content of which should be carefully observed.  

Attention is being particularly directed to the ‘General Information’ on ‘Zika Virus’ on the first page of the Annex. Persons visiting countries listed in Tables 1 and 2 in particular, should carefully observe ‘Recommendations Following The Emergency Committee Meeting’  and more so, the paragraph on ‘personal and household protection’.