Vessel Inspection Program
The Vessel Inspection Program consists of an environmental health inspection conducted by qualified environmental health officers employed by NSW Health.
The aim of the NSW Health Vessel Inspection Program is to ensure sanitation practices on board cruise ships meet local standards, reflecting the intent of the International Health Regulations. By a planned process of environmental health inspection and reporting, the Program reduces the likelihood of the introduction and spread of human disease. These inspections are undertaken in accordance with the Vessel Inspection Program Manual.
Inspections can also be undertaken in response to possible or confirmed outbreaks of public health significance, including COVID, based on preliminary findings of the epidemiological investigation.
The Port Authority of NSW operates cruise terminals and berths along the New South Wales coastline including the Overseas Passenger Terminal, White Bay Cruise Terminal (both in the Port of Sydney), Port of Newcastle, Port Kembla, Yamba and Eden Cruise Wharf. It is responsible for the cruise schedule, which lists berthing dates three years in advance. Vessels are selected for routine inspection in the Vessel Inspection Program based on this schedule.
Vessels are prioritised for inspection based on frequency of visits, local public health capacity of the vessel’s company, recency of inspection, size and frequency of outbreaks, and number of complaints to the Public Health Unit.
The major areas of inspection are:
- Hygiene and hand washing
- Childcare facilities
- Cleaning equipment and linen
- Medical services and body holding facilities
- Drinking water
- Legionella control and plan
- Recreational water
- Skin penetration (beauty therapy and associated facilities)
- Pest control
- Waste management
Safe food in NSW is under the jurisdiction of the NSW Food Authority. If an environmental health officer observes food safety concerns, these are communicated promptly to the NSW Food Authority.
To contact the South Eastern Sydney Public Health Unit's Cruise Ship Program email us or phone (02) 9382 8333 during business hours.