Effective October 1, 2021, anyone entering a Seafarers hiring hall must provide either proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19; or a completed, signed exemption form along with a negative test result from within the last 48 hours. This policy was adopted by the trustees of the Seafarers Joint Employment Fund (hiring halls).
Seafarers are encouraged to bring their respective vaccination cards to the halls as soon as possible so those documents may be scanned into the SMIS database.
Other safety precautions remain in place at all of the halls, including requirements to wear masks and socially distance. Proper sanitation is always encouraged.
Similar vaccine mandates take effect at the headquarters building and at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, beginning October 1. Also, mariners sailing aboard SIU-contracted deep-sea vessels are required to be fully vaccinated by October 1 or to show proof of exemption.
Members are encouraged to contact their respective port agents with any questions.
If this policy conflicts with any local or state law or regulation, the policy will be amended to be in compliance.
Unvaccinated members who were aboard a vessel when this policy took effect should contact their port agents by phone at the end of their tours.
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