Attachment 6A - MSC QMS COVID-19 Command Response Plan - Rev 11.pdf

Military Sealift Command Managers’ Internal Control-

Quality Management System Procedure

N2-35-6100-1-Q Revision 11

SSIC: 6100

Endorsed by the QMS Steering Committee

Steven C. Cade Executive Director, MSC

CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 (COVID-19) COMMAND RESPONSE

PLAN AND MEDICAL GUIDANCE

REFERENCES

(a) SECDEF Memo “Transition to Conditions-based Phased Approach to Coronavirus

Disease 2019 Personnel Movement and Travel Restrictions,” dated 22 May 2020, as updated by SECDEF Memo “Delegation of Waiver Approval Authority for

Coronavirus Disease 2019 Personnel Movement and Travel Restrictions” dated 5 Oct

(b) USD (P&R) Memo Force Health Protection Guidance (Series), most recent issuance is Supplement 15 dated 11 Jan 2021

(c) USD(P&R) Memo “Defense Industrial Base Essential Critical Infrastructure

Workforce” dated 20 Mar 2020

(d) CUSFF/NAVNORTH EXORD In Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-

19) dated 132156ZAUG20

(e) COMPACFLT EXORD In Response to COVID-19 dated 210045Z MAR 20

(f) COMPACFLT GENADMIN of Consolidated CPF COVID-19 Guidance 3.0 dated

252107Z FEB 21

(g) Secretary of the Navy ALNAV 067/20 “Cancellation of ALNAV 044/20 and 049/20” dated 121305Z JUN 20 and SECNAV Memo, “Department of the Navy

Implementation of Transition to Conditions-based Approach to Coronavirus Disease

2019 Personnel Movement and Travel Restrictions, dated 12 June 2020; modified by

ALNAV 078/20 dated 021959Z Sep 20

(h) NAVADMIN 189/20 Navy Mitigation Measures in Response to Coronavirus

Outbreak Update 6, dated 021507Z JUL 20, as updated by NAVADMIN 283/20 dated 212043Z OCT 20

(i) NAVADMIN 110/21, U.S. Navy COVID-19 Standing Guidance UPDATE 1, dated

021344ZJUN21

(j) NAVADMIN 158-16 Sovereign Immunity Policy

MSC Managers’ Internal Control-Quality Management System

Procedure

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RESPONSE PLAN AND MEDICAL GUIDANCE

(k) DON COVID-19 Travel Tracker, available at https://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-covid-19-travel-tracker

(l) COMSC Instruction 6100.1 MSC Pandemic Influenza Plan

(m) CMPI 630 Section 7 and Memorandum of Understanding Between MSC and

IOMMP, MEBA,NMU, and SIU, 12 Jan 1998

(n) NMCPH Guidance for Underway Evaluation and Management of Suspected Persons

Under Investigation of COVID-19

(o) Joint Travel Regulations

(p) COMPACFLT NAVADMIN 327/20 SARS-COV-2 VACCINATION AND

REPORTING POLICY 161751Z DEC 20

(q) COMPACFLT Underway Checklist for COVID-19 Environment, dated

17APR20

(r) MSC Safety Management System (SMS) Memo to Masters, Chief Engineers, and

Shore Staff, 162 (Series), “NAVSEA Supplemental Guidance for COVID-19

Disinfectant Products and Procedures”

(s) Joint USFFC and PACFLT Message, “Deployed Maintenance Support – Bubble-to-

Bubble Guidance” dated 141205ZAPR20

(t) COMUSNAVEUR-COMUSNAVAF OPORD MOD 03 Directing Response to

Outbreak of COVID-19 within the CNE-CNA/C6F AOR, dated 131100ZOCT20

(u) USD for Personnel and Readiness Memo, “Supplemental Guidance for Providing

DoD Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccines to DoD Contractor Employees and Select

Foreign Nationals, dated 31 Dec 2020

(v) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travel Health Notices (THNs) available at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices

(w) MSC Human Resources Advisory – Liberty Restriction Pay released 4 Nov 2020

(x) CUSFFC/NAVNORTH EXORD IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 FRAGO 20-

032.004 dated 232044Z OCT 20

(y) CUSFF/NAVNORTH EXORD IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 FRAGO 20-032.008 dated 140240Z JAN 21

(aa) CNO NAVADMIN 03/21, DOD COVID-19 Testing Prior to Overseas Travel, 072031ZJAN21, plus NAVADMIN 026/21 dated 29 January 2021 adds requirements for COVID-19 testing prior to international travel

(bb) SECDEF Memo re Use of Masks and Other Public Health Measures dated 4 Feb 21 and SECNAV Memo Use of Masks and Other Public Health Measures dated 5 Feb

(cc) COMSIXTHFLT OPORD MOD 04 Directing Response to Outbreak of COVID-19 with the AOR dated 261230Z Feb 21 http://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-http://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-

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ENCLOSURES (Sent SEPCOR)

(1) MSC COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire (V.20220107)

(2) Restriction of Movement Sample Orders (V.20220107)

(3) COVID-19 PPE Requirements by Ship Type – 21 Oct 2020

(4) IT Considerations for Telework (V.20210301)

(5) Pandemic Travel Request (TR) Form (Revision 8)

(6) COVID-19 Incident Reporting Required Information (V.20220107)

(7) MSC Guidance for Embarking and Disembarking Commercial Marine Pilots

(8) MSC Guidance Regarding Implementation of Clean Travel for CIVMAR Crew

Manning (V.28JUL2020)

(9) Vaccine Status Reporting Spreadsheet

(10) Funding/Purchasing for Commercial COVID-19 Testing (V.20210303)

(11) Organic Vessel Activation in COVID-19 Environment (V.20210916)

(12) Face Coverings

(13) Information to Contractor/Shipyard re: MSC PUI or COVID-19 Positive

(14) Area Command Travel Points of Contact (V.20210507)

(15) MSC COVID-19 Travel Assessment (V.4)

(16) Liberty ETP Request Format (V.20210303)

(17) Procedures for Testing in a Post Mandated COVID-19 Vaccination Environment

1 PURPOSE:

1.1 This document provides updated planning and response guidance for the

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) threat as directed by the references. There have been substantial changes since the publication of Revision 10. This guidance focuses on the

COVID- 19 outbreak and is not intended to supplant any guidance released by Military Sealift

Command (MSC) regarding pandemic influenza response. The entire team must understand their role in minimizing the spread of COVID-19 among our ranks. We must exercise personal responsibility, adhere to COVID-19 protocols, and stamp out complacency before it sets in.

MSC’s priority is to preserve the health of the force, ensure we do not spread the virus to the homeland or our partners, while maintaining our warfighting readiness.

1.2 COVID-19 is a serious public health threat. Recognizing persons at risk for

COVID-19 is a critical component of identifying cases and preventing further transmission.

Individual action is the most important element of pandemic response. It is the responsibility of all MSC personnel (service members and employees) and MSC contractors to take precautions to prevent the spread of infection to others. If you do not feel good, notify your supervisor and contact a health care provider.

1.3 Immunization Effects. COVID-19 vaccines are readily available across the

Department of Defense (DoD) and in the civilian community in the United States. Vaccinations

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and immunization will significantly help protect MSC personnel from the risk of infection. Full immunization occurs when two weeks have passed since the last dose in the vaccination series. COVID-19 boosters also are available and provide an additional layer of protection against present and emerging viral variants. Boosters are recommended for everyone. Having key and essential personnel immunized minimizes their risk of serious infection and hospitalization, increases depth on the bench, and provides mission assurance. Federal policies have been promulgated directing mandatory vaccination with vaccines that have received FDA licensing approval. MSC members (both military and civilian) shall follow the mandatory vaccination directives as and when promulgated by their supervisors. Voluntary vaccination may be executed with any available or acceptable emergency use authorization (EUA) approved vaccine. Policies will continue to be promulgated introducing opportunities for immunized personnel to have reduced restriction of movement (ROM) requirements, minimizing the limitations that have been placed on DoD personnel where and when possible. These policies are linked to ongoing studies regarding the infectivity of COVID-19 and strategies to prevent transmission. Even as restrictions are reduced, prudent measures must be implemented, such as wearing facial coverings and maintaining physical distance, when in environments that have poor air circulation and in which personnel are in close quarters. As we learn more about the vaccines and the reduced risk it affords our personnel, this QMS procedure will be updated.

1.4 This is Revision 11 to the original procedure published. It incorporates changes issued via the Interim Change Notice (ICN) process. Future updates to this procedure may be promulgated on short notice via e-mail or record message traffic based on changing conditions and Fleet requirements.

2 BACKGROUND / OBJECTIVES / APPLICABILITY

2.1 Background

2.1.1 The COVID-19 pandemic continues globally. MSC has successfully deployed mission ready forces through engaged leadership, rigorous discipline, personal responsibility, and by applying the lessons learned while operating in a COVID-19 environment.

Physical distancing, the use of face coverings, and hand washing remain key counter-COVID tactics.

We continue to learn more about the virus, allowing us to adapt and improve our COVID-19 prevention and mitigation strategies and protocols. This includes a COVID-19 vaccination plan to ensure MSC forces remain ready for tasking; however, we must remain vigilant even after our personnel are vaccinated. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. For confirmed COVID-19 cases, reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death. The complete clinical picture continues to develop, however multiple variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 have been documented in the United States and globally.

2.1.2. The vaccine booster is a time-based reinforcement of the initial vaccine in order

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to prevent decreasing immunity. The booster, highly recommended, will also decrease the risk if infected by COVID-19. Mixing boosters (Booster Pfizer/BioNTech initial to Moderna etc.) is allowable per the CDC. The most up-to-date dosing information is available on the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

2.2 Objectives: We must view and execute combating this virus as a military operation. This is not business as usual. All efforts should be taken to stop the spread of the virus. We must remain vigilant and review every engagement, operation, exercise, temporary additional duty (TAD), training event, leave, etc. through the lens of: (1) Mission accomplishment; (2) Mission essential; (3) Risk to mission/risk to force; and (4) Mission assurance and maintaining warfighting readiness.

2.2.1 Health Protection Condition (HPCON) measures, will be

promulgated via the MSC Chief of Staff (COS) directing additional safeguards for protection of the force against the spread of the virus. The HPCON conditions shall be followed in concert with this procedure.

2.2.2 This QMS procedure defines MSC Commodore, ship Master, and MSC

Headquarters staff duties and responsibilities with respect to protection of the force and management of a possible case of COVID-19 infection. All MSC personnel will take action to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and adhere to the policies and requirements in this procedure.

2.3 Applicability: This procedure is applicable to Military Sealift Command personnel worldwide and all MSC ships. For purposes of this procedure, MSC ships are those vessels entitled to sovereign immunity, including: USNS, to include all U.S. Government-owned vessels; privately-owned U.S. flagged vessels under time-charter to MSC; and the U.S.

Maritime Administration’s National Defense Reserve Fleet and its Ready Reserve Force, when activated and assigned to MSC.

2.3.1 MSC ships that are under a military commander’s operational control

(OPCON) or tactical control (TACON) will follow that commander’s COVID-19 guidance in addition to the guidance contained in this procedure. In the event of any conflict between an

OPCON/TACON Commander’s guidance and MSC’s guidance, then the Master of the ship will resolve the conflict by dual reporting and applying the more restrictive and/or higher standard.

Ships operated by contractors shall communicate with the applicable MSC Contracting Officer regarding any conflicting guidance.

2.3.2 The MSC Director of Contracts is responsible for communicating to all

MSC contractors regarding when and how to apply this procedure. This QMS procedure is not a

“change order” and does not alter, modify, or change the terms and conditions of any contract or purchase order awarded by MSC. This QMS procedure does not provide the basis for a contractor to seek a contract price adjustment. Only the Contracting Officer has the authority to http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

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modify the terms and conditions of a contract awarded by MSC and obligate the expenditure of government funds.

3 TRAVEL / LEAVE / LIBERTY

3.1 Travel Restrictions: While DoD takes into account CDC overseas travel health advisories set forth in reference (v), restrictions on travel continue to be dynamic. Additional

DoD guidance continues to be promulgated regarding travel restrictions for DoD personnel.

DoD has transitioned to a conditions-based phased approach to all official travel. The DON

COVID-19 Travel Tracker (reference (k)) https://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-covid-19-travel-tracker/don-covid-19-travel-tracker can be used to view the status of states, countries, territories and installations to assist with making risk informed decisions on approving travel and implementing the appropriate mitigation measures when individuals return.

3.2 Official Travel

3.2.1 Until further notice, travel will be authorized only when it is: (1) determined to be mission essential; (2) necessary for humanitarian reasons; or (3) warranted due to extreme hardship. MSC personnel shall incorporate DoD guidance into the full scope of planning for official travel. Review references (a), (d), (g), (h), (j), (k), and (v). MSC personnel granted an exception shall carefully plan travel to avoid, if possible, flights that transit through or originate in high-risk locations. Any use of commercial air travel may require additional

Counter-COVID-19 mitigations and procedures, such as restriction of movement sequester

(ROM-Sequester) at the point of destination. Consult with Force Medical regardingthe effect being fully immunized has on counter-COVID-19 mitigations and procedures at thepoint of destination. Approval authority rests with COMSC unless otherwise delegated as reflected within this QMS.

3.2.2 Mission-Essential Travel can continue. Mission-essential travel refers to work that must be performed to ensure the continued operations of MSC’s mission-essential functions. Use enclosure (5), Pandemic Travel Request form, for submission and approval of mission-essential travel. COMSC has delegated mission essential travel approval authority for fully vaccinated personnel to the Chief of Staff, all Commodores, and supervisory O-6/GS-15s that serve as N-code Directors,Department Heads, and Program Managers. Only the Secretary of the Navy may determine that official travel of unvaccinated personnel is mission essential.

Any MSC personnel traveling outside the continental United States (OCONUS) must coordinate with the applicable MSC Commodore before scheduling travel and inform the Commodore of their specific travel plans, via the member’s supervisor, prior to beginning travel. Any MSC personnel on official travel to an MSC ship in the continental United States (CONUS) must coordinate with the applicable MSC Commodore. Travel process is further set forth in Section 7 of this procedure. MSC personnel will raise any health and safety concerns regarding mission-essential travel to their supervisor.

http://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-covid-19-http://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-covid-19-

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3.2.3 Crew-relief for Government-owned, Government-operated (GOGO)

Ships. Unless directed otherwise by COMSC, crew-relief does not require face-to-face contact.

Host Nation (HN) and Fleet COVID-19 protocols must be followed for all crew-reliefs

(immunized and non-immunized personnel). Unless required by Host Nation (HN) or Fleets, immunized crew-reliefs do not need to complete a period of ROM-Sequester, but must obtain a negative COVID-19 test before coming on board the ship, except in instances where paragraph

4.2.1(5) applies. When permitted by Fleet COVID-19 protocols, and approved by the applicable

MSC Commodore, crew-relief ROM-Sequester may be conducted on board the ship. Where a non-immunized crew-relief has been a COVID-19 case, ROM-Sequester and testing may not be required. Instead, consult with MSC Force Medical and follow the return to work guidance in paragraph 4.3.3. The following additional guidance applies:

(1) Refer to section 7.1.1 for MSC TFM/N1 travel approval authority for

MSC funded travel, leave, or “cash-in lieu” payment for travel, as part of the civil service mariners (CIVMARs) force generation process. MSC TFM/N1 shall coordinate CIVMAR travel with the appropriate MSC Commodore.

(2) Refer to section 7.1.1 for MSC Commodore travel approval authority for CIVMARs. MSC Commodores shall coordinate with MSC TFM/N1 as appropriate.

(3) Masters shall report all crewmembers assigned but not onboard via their “Crew Change Report” and indicate the type of leave status for the crewmember. Masters shall also ensure the appropriate MSC Commodore is aware of any crewmember off ship in their

AOR.

(4) CIVMARs who are away from their ship and unable to return due to foreign government travel restrictions may be placed on administrative leave (weather and safety) pending resolution of their situation.

(5) CIVMARs who are on administrative leave (weather and safety) in

CONUS and unable to return to their assigned ship due to foreign government travel restrictions can be directed by TFM to detach from their assigned ship and report to CIVMAR Support Unit

(CSU) East or West for possible re-assignment.

(6) Ship’s Funded Leave (SFL) can be authorized by the MSC N1

CIVMAR Management Program Officer (N12). All requests shall be submitted directly to the

Marine Placement Director, copying the appropriate MSC Commodore and MSC detailer. The

Marine Placement Director shall ensure there are no more than 10% of the ship’s crew (rounded down to the nearest whole number) on SFL for operational ships at any time. SFL requests for maintenance periods are not subject to the 10% rule; however, Marine Placement will determine approvals based on fleet manpower and other requirements within this QMS procedure, such as

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paragraph 4.5.3. Due to excessive travel restrictions and quarantine/sequester periods in the

MSC CENT and FE AORs, SFL will usually not be considered for that AOR unless there are augments on board, or the ship is entering a maintenance, overhaul, or availability period. SFL proposals shall include the following information:

(i) Rate/Name and Enter on Duty (EOD) date of CIVMAR.

(ii) Date CIVMAR would depart ship and port/date of return to include a ROM-Sequester, COVID-19 testing and COVID-19 mitigation plan;

(iii) Operations the ship is scheduled to support during gap; and

(iv) Risks identified and all mitigation to reduce risk to as low a threshold as possible.

3.2.4 Additional Travel Procedures. Travelers shall follow all local civil authority COVID-19 rules and DoD Health Protection Condition (HPCON) guidance for the area. Privately owned vehicles, company vehicles, and rental cars are considered appropriate forms of ground transportation. Use of public transportation, taxis, ride-sharing (e.g., Uber), and other commercial ground transportation should be avoided.

3.2.5 Travel between two ships at sea, from an underway ship to shore, or from shore to an underway ship requires review and approval by the applicable Commodore. All movements will follow established mitigation measures to maintain a virus-free ship.

3.2.6 Pre- and Post- Travel Screening and Reception. Those travelers approved for mission-essential travel shall comply with the guidance below in Section 7 for pre- and post-travel screening and reception procedures.

3.2.7 Permanent Change of Station (PCS). The Navy has published extensive guidance on the status of PCS for service members and Navy civilians. See reference (h) for details.

3.2.8 Non-Mission Critical / Non-Essential Official Travel. Non-mission critical / Non- essential official travel shall stop until further notice. Review references (a), (d),

(g) and (h). Even if the restriction on non-mission-essential travel is lifted, supervisors will continue to consider teleconferences and other means to accomplish the objectives.

3.3 Leave, Liberty, and Personal Travel: Opportunities for leave shall continue to be affordedfor all personnel, to the extent practical to assure the safety and health of the workforce

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balancedagainst mission requirements.

3.3.1 Fully Immunized Ashore Civilian Employees and Service Members.

MSC ashore civilian employees and service members who are fully immunized and intend to conduct non- international leave, liberty, or personal travel shall follow the approval procedures that existed prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Immunized personnel are not required to perform ROM before, during, or after travel within the United States unless directed, but must maintain Health Protection Measures in accordance with CDC guidance.

Leave approval for international travel resides at the N-code Director or Department

Head/Program Manager/Chief of Staff/Commodore level. This authority cannot be further delegated. Quarantine and testing requirement for immunized personnel after international travel will be in accordance with CDC guidance.

3.3.2 Service Members Not Fully Immunized. Leave approval resides at the

N-code Director or Department Head/Program Manager/Chief of Staff/Commodore level. This authority cannot be further delegated. Liberty taken outside the local area requires supervisor notification. Local area is defined by the local MSC Commodore. For MSC Headquarters, it is defined by the MSC Chief of Staff in paragraph 9.13 below. Per references (h) and (y), leave approval authorities will conduct a risk assessment of the health status and travel itinerary for

Service Members taking leave or liberty outside the local area. The DON COVID-19 Travel

Tracker (reference (k)) https://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-covid-19-travel-tracker/don-covid-19-travel-tracker can be used to see the status of states, countries, territories and installations to assist with making risk informed decisions on approving leave and implementing the appropriate mitigation measures when individuals return from leave. Service members will use the MSC COVID-19 Travel Assessment management worksheet and

Activity-Based Risk chart in enclosure (15) as required by reference (y). This worksheet is meant to provide a repeatable, risk-based assessment framework to use in the decision making process. Service Members will comply with any DoD, component, federal, state and local restrictions while in a leave/liberty status. Service Members should not travel if they display a fever or other symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or if they have had close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 14 days.

3.3.3 Ashore Navy Civilian Employees Not Fully Immunized. Off-duty travel to COVID- 19 high-risk areas (e.g., CDC THN Level 3, Level 2, and out of area) is highly discouraged for civilian employees. Annual leave outside of the local area requires permission from the individual’s N-code Director or Department Head/Program Manager/Commodore. This authority cannot be further delegated. Any personal travel not requiring approved leave that involves going outside the local area requires supervisor notification. Local area is defined by the local MSC Commodore. For MSC Headquarters, it is defined in paragraph 9.13 below.

Leave approval authorities will conduct a risk assessment of the health status and travel itinerary for employees taking leave outside the local area. The DON COVID-19 Travel Tracker

(reference (k)) (https://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-covid-19-travel-tracker) can be used to http://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-covid-19-travel-tracker/don-http://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-covid-19-travel-tracker/don-http://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/don-covid-19-travel-tracker)

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see the status of states, countries, territories and installations to assist with making risk informed decisions on approving leave and implementing the appropriate mitigation measures when individuals return from leave. Supervisors may disapprove leave based on potential mission requirements. An expectation of ROM-Sequester following a period of leave may be deemed by supervisors to impact mission and be the basis for denying leave to any personnel. Employees will use the MSC COVID-19 Travel Assessment management worksheet and Activity-Based

Risk chart in enclosure (15) as required by reference (y). This worksheet is meant to provide a repeatable, risk-based assessment framework to use in the decision making process. Employees should not travel if they display a fever or other symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or if they have had close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 14 days.

3.3.4 CIVMAR Leave or Travel. For CIVMAR leave or travel situations not specified in paragraph 3.2.3, paragraph 7.1.1, or elsewhere in this guidance, approval authority is delegated to the Deputy Director, Total Force Management (TFMX) or TFM

CIVMAR Management Program Officer (N12).

3.3.5 Post-Travel Screening. Requirement to quarantine, test, and restrict movement is based on latest guidance for all MSC personnel who are not fully immunized returning from personal travel outside the local area. Screening can be done by the individual using enclosure (1). MSC Commodores may authorize the use of an AOR-specific form.

When indicated personnel will be placed under a ROM and prevented from accessing MSC work sites and ships for health and safety reasons (see enclosure (2)).

3.4 Mariner Liberty:

3.4.1 Pursuant to reference (n), CIVMAR liberty in port may be restricted without premium pay where conditions to transit from the ship or ashore in the port concerned are obviously and abnormally unsafe due to civil strife, military action, outlawry or natural causes. Such restrictions include the restriction of movement to certain cities, locations, countries, and regions. The Master will deny liberty without premium pay when competent commanders and port authorities order the crew’s restriction.

3.4.2 The COVID-19 threat is the same for all persons across the enterprise, regardless of status. MSC leadership expects contracting companies and ship Masters to apply the same bases for liberty restriction discussed in paragraph 3.4.1 to contracted mariners

(CONMAR) on MSC vessels. Additionally, the Master of an in-service MSC ship shall similarly restrict the liberty of all other embarked personnel on an MSC vessel (military, government civilian, DoD contractor, or other) when CIVMAR or CONMAR liberty is restricted. MSC

Commodores must work with their Fleet counterparts to ensure there is consistency in application to the greatest extent possible. Exceptions to this policy or other restrictions issues will be raised through the applicable MSC Commodore to MSC Headquarters for resolution.

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3.4.3 Liberty Restriction and Non-Liberty Exceptions to Go Ashore. When liberty is restricted, MSC Commodores are delegated authority to approve non-liberty exceptions to go ashore. Ship Masters shall work closely with the Commodore to coordinate movement that is required on and off the ship, such as crew reliefs, morale events, shipboard logistics, to obtain basic health and comfort items, to attend court, to vote locally in civic elections, or to address medical requirements. Contactless food delivery and personal care package delivery to MSC ships is authorized, subject to specific guidance of the applicable MSC Commodore. Masters must consolidate requirements and put appropriate risk mitigation measures in place.

(1) Liberty Restriction and Ashore Medical Care.

a. CIVMAR Masters shall consult with on board Medical

Personnel and Remote Medical International (RMI) for all possible urgent medical conditions. If Medical Personnel and RMI determine a medical condition is urgent and requires ashore medical care, Masters shall work with MSC Commodores to obtain access to necessary medical care as quickly as possible. If Medical Personnel and RMI determine a medical issue to be non-urgent, Masters shall work with TFM/N1 to coordinate CIVMAR relief so that medical issues can be addressed between shipboard assignments. If, however, the non-urgent medical issue cannot wait until CIVMAR relief, the Master and TFM/N1 shallconsult with MSC Force Medical regarding any proposed non-urgent medical visits and present the plan for approval to the MSC Commodore. Access to medical care OCONUS is also subject to host-nation approval, practice and procedures.

b. CONMAR Masters shall ensure the contractor’s Medical point of contact is consulted for all proposed medical visits. If a medical condition is urgent and requires ashore medical care, Masters shall normally work with MSC Commodores to obtain access to necessary medical care as quickly as possible. If medical issues are non-urgent, Masters shall consult with their company regarding any proposed non-urgent medical visits and present the plan for approval to the MSC Commodore. Access to medical care

OCONUS is also subject to host-nation approval, practice and procedures.

(2) Restriction of Movement (ROM) requirements. For all non-liberty exceptions to go ashore, Commodores are delegated authority to determine whether a ROM period is required to return to the ship. This determination will be risk based using factorssuch as nature of activity, location, local community-spread of COVID-19, effective use of PPE,and mission of ship. Medical appointments may be considered low-risk (e.g., visit to clinic or provider’s office) or high-risk (e.g., emergency room visit). When possible, non-liberty exceptions to go ashore shall be conducted in a way that a ROM period is not required.

3.4.4 When applicable, MSC Commodores shall notify a GOGO ship’s Master of any liberty restrictions imposed by host nation authorities, civil authorities, or the senior U.S.

military or senior U.S. Navy commander, or their duly authorized designee which would occur

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even in the absence of the COMSC Gangway Up Order. This notification can occur through appropriate means, depending on the specific geographic area requirements. Refer to reference

(x), procedures for payment to CIVMARs regarding the compensation for liberty restriction pay-related to the COVID pandemic emergency.

3.4.5 Exception to Policy (ETP) for Gangway Up Order: On 21 March 2020, COMSC issued a “Gangway Up” order, which restricts mariner liberty as an emergent measure in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This order remains in effect. An ETP to this

Gangways Up order for a specific ship may be granted if certain conditions are met. The health of the force, mission and readiness shall not be jeopardized by approving ETP requests. ETP requests are not required during shipyard availabilities where the ship is uninhabitable and the crew has moved into a contract hotel, instead refer to paragraph 4.5.3(5).

(1) Written ETP requests for leave or liberty to COMSC shall be submitted by MSC Commodores, in coordination with ship Master. For ships meeting the following criteria, ETP requests may be submitted directly to the appropriate Area Commander for decision (advanced notification to MSC COS is required):

a. The port location for leave or liberty is set at HPCON B or better

b. Crew immunization is 85% or higher

c. Key shipboard personnel (Master, Chief Mate, Chief Engineer, First Assistant Engineer) are immunized.

(2) For any ETP involving GOCO and COCO ships, the Program

Manager must obtain concurrence from the contractor before the Area Commander submits the

ETP for approval. If GOCO and COCO ships meet the above criteria, paragraph 3.4.5 (1), the

Area Commander is the decision authority. COMSC will evaluate requests based on an analysis of the following risk factors (classify as necessary):

a. Ship mission set will support (e.g., Ready-for-tasking (RFT), schedule, Fleet requirements, operational chain-of-command input)

b. Local civil conditions and COVID-19 risk (IAW DoD, DON and Fleet guidance)

c. Civil authorities do not require shelter-in-place/stay at home or otherwise preclude liberty

d. Unique COVID-19 host-nation requirements

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e. Ship schedule supports required ROM-Sequester and testing of crew prior to RFT or deployment

f. COVID-19 testing available post leave or liberty period

g. Mission assurance and risk analysis for ship class (e.g., CLF, T-AGOS, T-AGS, SBX)

h. Severe weather possibilities

i. Crew status – healthy, appropriate level of manning, vaccination percentage, and analysis of risk incurred if crew exposed to

COVID-19

j. In addition to risk analysis, requests for ETP must identify risk mitigation measures, such as:

i. Written instruction from Master on schedule, local guidance/restrictions, and permitted activities

ii. Rotational leave or liberty (e.g., blue/gold rotation)

iii. Maintain strict adherence to screening procedures at the gangway for all personnel, to include returning crewmembers

iv. Strict compliance to PPE and counter-COVID-19 tactics, techniques and procedures

v. Potential to ROM on board and maintain physical distancing, etc.

(3) MSC Commodores shall submit requests as soon as need is identified, but normally at least five working days prior to desired execution.

(4) Procedure to submit an ETP:

a. ETP request should follow requirements outlined in Enclosure

18. Note: Include enough information so the request can stand

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on its own while keeping it unclassified. If it is necessary to send it via secure means, contact the MSCHQ Mission

Assurance officer at lynn.n.hazlett.mil@us.navy.mil or 757-

443-0037

b. Draft email with subject line that reads: “MSC (or

NAVTRANS) ETP request for <Port location/ship name>”

c. MSC Area Commanders shall send requests to the Chief of

Staff (COS) at: Janice.g.smith14.mil@us.navy.mil

d. Carbon Copy the following individuals:

i. Director of Operations and Plans (N2/3):

stanley.g.dickerson.mil@us.navy.mil

ii. Deputy Director of Operations and Plans (N2/3):

james.f.hughes4.civ@us.navy.mil

iii. Mission Assurance Officer (N322):

lynn.n.hazlett.mil@us.navy.mil

(5) The MSC Planning Management Board shall task and/or analyze requests based on risk factors and mitigations in paragraph (1) above.

(6) Once complete, the analysis of the ETP request will normally be distributed electronically for DMO, DSM, TFM, Counsel, and ED review and concurrence, and then presented to COMSC for approval.

(7) MSC Commodores shall get positive confirmation of ETP approval by

COMSC. An approved ETP to the Gangway Up order is specific to the crew of that ship and does not waive any other provision within this QMS Procedure, including the requirement in section 4.2.1 that all other personnel coming on board an MSC government-owned ship shall complete a 14-day ROM-Sequester and obtain a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding.

MSC Commodores and Masters may suspend an ETP based on a change in risk factors or mitigations. Send notification of any suspension to the MSC Battle Watch and the COS.

(8) MSC Commodores shall provide a weekly ship liberty report detailing ships with liberty and ships with restrictions and the basis for those restrictions tothe MSC Chief of Staff (COS) Janice.g.smith14.mil@us.navy.mil; MSC Battle Watch mailto:lynn.hazlett@navy.mil mailto:Janice.g.smith14.mil@us.navy.mil mailto:stanley.g.dickerson.mil@us.navy.mil mailto:james.f.hughes4.civ@us.navy.mil mailto:lynn.hazlett@navy.mil mailto:Janice.g.smith14.mil@us.navy.mil

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at MSCHQ.BWC.fct@navy.mil; MSC Director of Operations and Plans (N2/3)

Stanley.g.dickerson.mil@us.navy.mil; Deputy Director of Operations and Plans (N2/3) james.f.hughes4.civ@us.navy.mil; Director MSC Labor and Employee Relations at msc_ler@navy.mil; and MSC Maritime Law Counsel max.b.jenkins.civ@us.navy.mil.

(9) ETP extensions will be completed by the MSC Commodores as long as there are no significant changes. If there are changes that impact the risk to Crew, risk to

Mission or there are changes in tasking an extension request will be routed via the standard process. Extensions will be communicated to MSC HQ to the Director of Operations and Plans, Deputy Director of Operations and Plans, and Mission Assurance Officer.

3.5 Health Protection Conditions (HPCON): Force Health Protection is a subset of

Force Protection authority. In every AOR, Combatant Commanders and their subordinate component commanders have set HPCON levels and force health protection (FHP) measures commensurate with the COVID-19 threat to that area. These FHP measures may be more stringent than those placed on the general public and should be reviewed in detail.

4 AFLOAT PROCEDURES / PROCESSES

4.1 General Guidance.

4.1.1 Combatant Commander and Fleet Guidance. MSC ships, as defined in paragraph 2.3 above, that are under a military commander’s OPCON or TACON will follow that commander’s COVID-19 guidance in addition to the guidance contained in this procedure (MSC retains ADCON for all MSC-assigned and vessels at all times.) In the event of any conflict between an OPCON/TACON Commander’s guidance and MSC’s guidance, then the Master of the ship will resolve the conflict by dual reporting and applying the more restrictive and/or higher standard until directed otherwise. The MSC Commander retains OPCON of U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) missions; however, such vessels are TACON for Force Protection purposes to the geographic Fleet Commander. Pursuant to this Force Protection authority, Force Health Protection measures may be directed.

4.1.2 MSC Commodores will publish updated area specific COVID-19 procedures and processes to all MSC ships in their AOR, including contractor-operated ships, on a weekly basis until further notice. These procedures will include the latest copy of the most current AOR-specific COVID-19 screening questionnaire. In the absence of an

AOR-specific COVID-19 screening questionnaire, MSC ships will use enclosure (1).

4.1.3 Measures to Minimize the Spread of COVID-19. MSC Commodores and ship Masters shall take aggressive action to minimize the spread of the virus and protect the health of the crew and other personnel. This is not business as usual. Such actions include:

(1) Execute lengthier fast cruises prior to getting underway to mailto:max.b.jenkins.civ@us.navy.mil

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ensure units are virus-free. Send ships to anchor instead of keeping them pier side.

(2) Exercise strict control of access on and off the ship, and control access to certain areas of the ship. Intensely scrutinize each person who seeks access to the ship. This includes limiting or securing access by personnel not embarked on the ship to retain the integrity of a virus-free shipboard environment.

(3) Limit the movement on and off the ship of crewmembers and other personnel embarked, to retain the integrity of a virus-free shipboard environment.

(4) Limit contact between personnel on board the ship. If duties require interaction with others, execute social distancing. If necessary, sequester low-density mission critical personnel.

(5) Disinfect spaces were COVID-19 positive personnel work and in which they are isolated, refer to reference (r).

(6) Conduct daily medical screenings of personnel onboard.

(7) Crew should monitor their health, self-isolate, and inform the onboard MSO or MDR immediately if they develop a fever (100oF / 37.8oC or higher), begin to feel feverish, or develop other signs or symptoms of sickness. Advise crew of the importance of covering coughs and sneezes appropriately (i.e. cough/sneeze into elbow).

Dispose used tissues immediately in a disposable container (e.g., plastic bag) or a washable trashcan. MSOs and MDRs should post signs and send emails reminding passengers and crewmembers to wash their hands preferably with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, they can use a hand sanitizer containing

60%-95% alcohol.

4.2 Afloat Force Health Protection Measures. All ships’ Masters are responsible for the force health protection of their ship. Masters shall maintain awareness of all relevantMSC policy and guidance related to COVID-19. Contact the respective MSC

Commodore with any questions. The tolerance for COVID-19 on board is variable and dependent upon the type of mission. Consequently, a risk-based strategy should be employed. The following guidelines provide the minimal standards for afloat health protection. It is incumbent upon the ship’ Master, Area Commander, and mission sponsor to define and execute mitigations to achieve mission assurance. Force Medical and

Program Managers at MSC HQ are available to consult and assist as mitigation strategies are formulated.

4.2.1 Restriction of Movement (ROM)-Sequester Requirement: Unless exempted below, all personnel coming on board an MSC government-owned ship shall complete a 14-day ROM-Sequester and obtain a negative COVID-19 test. The test must be

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administered no earlier than day 10 of the ROM-Sequester, or if not required to ROM, within

72 hours prior to embarking. Do not secure ROM-Sequester if test results are delayed. Once

ROM-Sequester and negative COVID-19 test are complete, personnel must maintain “clean status” and conduct only clean travel.

(1) For the purposes of this section, a ROM-Sequester is typically a

14-day period in clean berthing off the ship, or in a MSC Commodore approved clean area, followed by answering questions from an approved COVID-19 screening questionnaire and a temperature check. When permitted by Fleet COVID-19 protocols, and approved by the applicable MSC Commodore, crew-relief ROM-Sequester may be conducted on board the ship.Consult MSC Force Medical for appropriate COVID-19 test out procedures. See additional definition of ROM-Sequester in section nine (9) below. Personnel completing a

14-day ROM- Sequester with a negative test achieve “clean status” for purposes of COVID-

19 risk assessments.

(2) To maintain “clean status”, travel from the ROM-Sequester location to a “clean” ship or area, or travel between clean ships/areas, must be done in a clean manner. This is the “Bubble-to-Bubble” (B2B) concept. Military air travel is only acceptable for clean travel when all the crew and passengers are all in “clean status.” Common-carrier commercial air travel is not considered clean. Surface travel must be done in a clean vehicle or vessel. Public transportation is not considered clean.

(3) If travel requires an overnight stay, travelers must stay in clean berthing that includes a method of food delivery that maintains clean personnel status.

(4) This ROM-Sequester requirement applies to personnel coming on board government-owned ships for Voyage Repairs (VR), Emergent Work, and Onboard Technical Assistance (OBTA). To support the maintenance enterprise in minimizing risk to its technical experts, MSC personnel shall first exhaust distance support such that bringing personnel on board is the only course of action remaining.

(5) This ROM-Sequester and testing requirement does not apply to shipyard workers and contractors of government-owned ships in an overhaul or availability

(ROH, MTA, PSA, EDD), ships that are decommissioning/deactivating, or ships in new construction (the period between “Date of Delivery” and the “Ready for Tasking” date).

Instead refer to the procedures in paragraph 4.5 for other precautions to mitigate the risk of

COVID-19 exposure. ROM-Sequester and testing is also not required for embarking a commercial marine pilot; instead follow the procedures set forth in enclosure (7). ROM-

Sequester and testing is not required for stevedores and other personnel that briefly board the ship for cargo loading/handling, instead follow the procedures inparagraph 4.7 and reference

(s).

(6) Government-Owned/Contractor-Operated (GOCO) Vessels and

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Commercial Helicopter Detachment (Comm Helo Det). If required, Requirements Owners shall update the applicable Performance Work Statements (PWS) and new/revised Contract Data

Requirements List (CDRL) to establish procedures for contractors to submit ROM-Sequester and testing plans to include ROM-Sequester location, means of clean transportation satisfying above requirements, and other mitigating measures for coordination with the Program Manager and approval by the Contracting Officer.

(7) Commercially-Owned/Contractor-Operated (COCO) Vessels.

This ROM sequester and testing requirement does not apply to chartered vessels where there are inadequate crew facilities (e.g., harbor tugs). The COCO vessel Program Manager shall coordinate crew changes with the contractor, and seek sponsor approval to implement this

ROM-sequester and testing requirements, to include identification of necessary funding to support contractual obligations. If sponsor approval or funding is not available for any instance where ROM is required by this QMS procedure, the Program Manager shall notify COMSC and seek an ETP. The Contractor shall not implement ROM-sequester and testing requirements where Government reimbursement will be sought until they receive notification from the

Contracting Officer.

(8) Ships in ROS-5 or Greater Status. This ROM sequester and testing requirement does not apply to vaccinated individuals coming on board vessels in a ROS-5 or greater status, however all unvaccinated individuals must still screen in accordance with paragraph 4.2.2 and have a negative COIVD-19 test within 72 hours of boarding. For crew joining ROS-5 ships that have an approved ETP to the COMSC Gangway Up Order, the ROM-

Sequester requirement does not apply. However, joining crewmembers, who intend to live on board, will be administered a COVID-19 test upon entering the area where the ship is lay-berthed. They willbe sequestered until negative results are received. Once negative results are received, the joining crew can sign on to the vessel. New crewmembers along with the rest of the crew will follow strict adherence to the use of PPE, practice social distancing, and routine sanitization of spacesand common areas. For activating vessels in the COVID-19 environment, follow the ROM- Sequester and testing procedures in enclosure (11).

(9) Immunized personnel. For all immunized personnel who are: (a) joining the ship’s crew; (b) embarking the vessel for a voyage, or (c) visiting a ship with an established bubble, a negative COVID test is required within 72 hours of embarking. Such personnel do not need to conduct a ROM-Sequester unless required by Host Nation (HN) or

Fleet COVID-19 protocols. Immunized personnel outside of categories (a), (b), or (c) of this paragraph do not need to conduct a ROM-Sequester, or obtain a negative COVID test prior to embarking, unless required by HN or Fleet COVID-19 protocols. All immunized personnel in this category shall continue to be subject to the screening requirements set forth in enclosure (1).

(10) Where compliance with this ROM-Sequester and testing requirement is determined to be impractical, and the ship has established a bubble pursuant to

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Fleet Commander Directives, an alternative mitigation plan and waiver request shall be submitted to COMSC for approval after notification to the appropriate Commodore and Program

Manager. Notification to the appropriate Fleet Commander may also be required. When Fleet directives do not require the ship to maintain a bubble, MSC SES and MSC COS are delegated authority to approve alternative mitigation plans and waiver requests. Other onboard mitigations shall include maximum social distancing, extra personal protective equipment (PPE) worn by the person coming on board and shipboard personnel (the term "PPE" is not intended to mandate

N95-level masks; any reasonable and generally-accepted face covering is sufficient), extra cleaning and additional screening points. Mess hours for personnel without “clean status” shall be different from ship’s force. If overnight stay is required for personnel without “clean status,” the ship shall supply a separate stateroom where possible.

4.2.2 Screening. Masters shall screen all personnel accessing the ship or embarked on the ship using an MSC Commodore authorized AOR-specific COVID-19 screening questionnaire or enclosure (1). These questionnaires shall be updated to consider the latest DoD guidance on vaccination status. Screening can be done verbally. Masters will not allow personnel identified by the screening as at risk for COVID-19 exposure

(“identified personnel”) to access the ship. Identified personnel includes ill-persons as defined in Section 9 below.