Stricter seaport regulations implemented following four positive COVID-19 cases

Expect more frequent testing for fronline workers and stricter zoning measures.

Four workers at Singapore seaport facilities have tested positive for COVID-19 over the past two weeks, leading the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) and port operator PSA Singapore to implement stricter precautionary measures.

This is on top of vaccinations, rostered routine testing, and the safe management measures stipulated in port marine circulars.

Frequency of rostered routine testing for frontline dormitory workers will be increased to every seven days, from the previous 14 days, for both vaccinated and unvaccinated workers.

Some 25,500 personnel have been fully vaccinated to date, including 97% of the frontline workers exposed to higher risks. Another 6,000 maritime personnel will be vaccinated in the coming weeks.

Segregation measures have been enhanced in terminals, with measures to minimise mixing personnel. Terminal canteens will only allow takeaways, packed food will be delivered to frontline staff.

Separate toilets and facilities have also been arranged for different groups of workers.

Two vaccinated Pasir Panjang Terminal workers tested positive for COVID-19 on March 1, both asymptomatic and staying in dormitories at the Pasir Panjang Residence.

The third COVID-19 case was a truck driver, while the fourth was an operations assistant.