Covid-19, coronavirus, shipping, FAQ, frequently asked questions Home Publications Articles Covid-19 FAQ – frequently asked questions Covid-19 FAQ – frequently asked questions Publications Steamship Mutual Published: April 08, 2020 Contact author Download article pdf Image Introductory question: Does the present Covid-19 pandemic of itself prejudice Club cover? The short answer is “no”. However, Clubs do require that the entered vessel is and remains classed, and this could be problematic where certification is about to expire and renewal is likely to be delayed due to Covid-19. Fortunately, a number of flag states have already recognised the demand to apply a reasonable and pragmatic approach, including agreeing to extend the period of validity for ships’ certification; classification societies have similarly agreed to extend the validity of certification where it is not possible to complete the necessary surveys. Initially, the permitted allowable extension is in general 3 months. In case ships are still unable to complete the necessary surveys and audits within this period, discussions are underway to see if and how certificates can be extended further whilst ensuring safety standards are maintained. A     CREW: 1     Due to inability to rotate, crew have to remain on board – contracts, certification, “overlap” wages This is an issue we are seeing with increased frequency as more ports refuse to allow crew changes, or in other cases where crew on board are simply unable to leave or new crew to join due to Covid-19 related border or airline restrictions. A number of issues can arise: Expiry of seafarer’s contract: contract length varies, although under the Maritime Labour Convention (“MLC”) should not exceed 12 months. However, the ITF have stated (E-Circular 087 dated 17 March 2020) that until 16 April 2020, it will not challenge extensions of up to one month, even where they exceed the MLC period or other periods allowable under ITF