Published: 1 Sep 2020
SVITZER WHYALLA
Members may have read about a stevedore returning to SA from Melbourne testing positive from their second test in isolation. We can confirm that this person was not employed by any of the major stevedoring Companies. The experience highlights a particular issue/risk associated with testing. That is, infected but not testing positive in the early stages.
The COVID spike in Victoria made Svitzer tugs - who use inter-state workers - review their COVID policy and procedure especially in relation to the Whyalla Transhipment operation. Unfortunately, Svitzer’s actions were more a lesson in what not to do!
Fortunately, on this matter there was a high level of unity across the whole workforce (irrespective of MUA, AMOU or AIMPE coverage). No crew member will be turning to with a worker who has not been in isolation for 14 days and returned 2 negative tests.
QUBE Berth 29
Finally, Qube in Port Adelaide provided another dismal example. MUA members working the Star Ismene became aware a crew member had been taken to the RAH for COVID testing. Members were stood down awaiting confirmation of the appropriate safety response. They were advised to follow the policy. When Branch Organiser Campbell Duignan requested the policy, it couldn’t be provided! Neither Shift Supervisor or Shift Manager could find it.
QUBE workers took a principled stand in not returning to the vessel until all elements of the COVID plan were provided and assurances could be given that all employees health and safety was not compromised and the ill seafarer returned a negative COVID Test.
The MUA at a state and national Level have familiarised with all restrictions and protocols enforced by state governments and their agencies. We have a spreadsheet of most employers COVID Safe Plans and where necessary intervene to ensure best practice prevails.
Where necessary and required, or where a COVID19 matter arises, members are encouraged to seek clarity, advice and assistance from the branch officials.
