Cyprus has officially recommended the ICS International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers for use on board vessels under its flag, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) announced on Monday.
Specifically, Cyprus’ deputy shipping ministry issued a circular to its fleet recommending the medical guide, joining an expanding list of flag states that recognise the guide’s value in protecting seafarer and fisher health and safety.
The circular also recommends that all approved training establishments incorporate the ICS guide into STCW medical courses.
Cyprus now joins the Panama Maritime Authority, Republic of the Marshall Islands Registry, and The Bahamas Maritime Authority in endorsing this maritime medical resource.
This endorsement comes at a particularly significant time, as amendments to the International Labour Organization Maritime Labour Convention (ILO MLC) agreed this past May will reference the ICS International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers.
These amendments, set to take effect in December 2027, further cement the guide’s status as a recognised international standard for maritime medical care.
The International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers is an up-to-date, comprehensive and practical medical resource, ICS said in its announcement, designed specifically for use on board all ships and fishing vessels worldwide.
It addresses the unique challenges of providing medical care in the maritime environment, where in-person professional medical assistance may be days away.
“Ship operators and maritime companies are encouraged to consider adding the ICS International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers to their mandatory carriage requirements, enhancing their medical preparedness and demonstrating commitment to crew welfare,” the statement of ICS reads.
