In a bid to protect the country from the Ebola outbreak, the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) is using Pole Star’s PurpleTRAC sanctions compliance and risk management service to fend off the virus.
According to Hellenic Shipping News, all vessels that are destined to enter the Panamanian port will be required to post arrival dates via their agent into the PMA’s system.
Andrew Peters, CEO of Pole Star, said: “We are delighted to work with the Panama Maritime Authority, the largest flag in the world, to deliver the tools they need to expand and strengthen their risk management strategy.”
PurpleTRAC will also provide Ebola-risk warnings for any ships that have visited countries where the World Health Organisation (WHO) deems the outbreak of Ebola severe, such regions include the West African countries of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.
If a vessel has called at any of these countries within the last 90 days, an enhanced ship inspection will be triggered by an automatic system/operator alert by the PMA, the Panama Coast Guard and the Ministry of Health.
Mr Peters concluded: “This highlights the flag’s willingness to adopt innovative solutions to create best management practice. It is also further validation of Pole Star’s market leading technology and product delivery capability bringing tangible benefits to the maritime industry.”
