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“Safe Air” for ocean cruising

The West Australian
MSC Seashore.
Camera IconMSC Seashore. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

MSC Cruises will become world’s first cruise line to install an innovative technology sanitation system called “Safe Air”.

The high level air filter will be fitted on MSC Seashore, which is under construction at shipbuilder Fincantieri’s Monfalcone yard in Italy.

Set to be delivered in July 2021, it is one of the biggest and most technologically advanced ships that’s ever been built in Italy.

In August, MSC became the first major cruise line to return to sea with a new and comprehensive health and safety protocol approved by a range of national and regional authorities in Europe.

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WHAT SAFE AIR IS

The Safe Air sanitation system is based on the technology of UV-C lamps. These have type C ultraviolet rays applied in combination with the ship’s air conditioning system. Air flow is radiated at source with a short wavelength light that hits organic particles and prevents the circulation of air pollutants such as viruses, bacteria and mould.

The system was developed by Fincantieri’s designers and technicians and the virology laboratory of the International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, a leading global research institute headquartered in Trieste, Italy.

The institute provides businesses with scientific support to develop innovative technological solutions for the control of virus infections, which is particularly relevant today given the current global pandemic.

TRAVELLING SAFE

The Safe Air system is just part of the picture. All guests will go through universal health screening before boarding an MSC ship which comprises.

There are three comprehensive steps – a temperature check, a review of a personal health questionnaire and a COVID-19 antigen swab test. Crew are tested up to three times before being permitted to start their work.

There’s increased sanitation and cleaning on board, protected “bubble” shore excursions, facemasks and maintaining social distancing, enhanced onboard medical facilities, daily health monitoring and a robust contingency plan.

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