Boats
All boats should undergo routine disinfection to ensure that they do not transfer pathogenic agents. The level of contamination of boats will be determined by their use. Boats used to harvest or to remove dead aquatic animals from aquaculture sites should be considered as highly likely to be contaminated. Organic material should be regularly removed from decks and work areas.
As part of the disinfection planning process, an assessment should be made to identify areas likely to be contaminated such as in and around machinery, holding tanks, bilges and pipes. All loose equipment should be removed prior to disinfection. Additional procedures should be developed for well-boats because of their potential to transfer pathogenic agents through the discharge of contaminated water. Contaminated effluent water should be disinfected prior to discharge (refer to Article 4.3.11.).
Where possible, boats should be placed on land for disinfection in order to limit waste water entering the aquatic environment and to allow access to hull areas. Biofouling organisms that may act as vectors and fomites should be removed.
Where boats cannot be removed to land, a disinfection method should be chosen that minimises the discharge of toxic chemicals into the aquatic environment. Divers should be used to inspect and clean hulls. Where appropriate, mechanical methods such as high-pressure sprayers or steam cleaners should be considered as an alternative to chemical disinfection for cleaning above and below the water-line. Fumigation may also be considered for large areas if they can be adequately sealed.