Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Compiles Useful COVID-19 Resources

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting everyone, including the seafood industry – and it can be particularly tough for small-scale operations to adapt. Fortunately, the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership has collated a list of helpful guidance and resources for the seafood industry during these difficult times.

The list includes infographics targeted at different scale fisheries and farms in different regions, as well as links to guidance on safety information and links to worker requests for protection and guidance on the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Though not an exhaustive list, it’s a great place for anyone in the industry to look if they are feeling unsure about how best to adapt to operating during this pandemic.

ASC has also provided a temporary updated audit policy for COVID-19. Lockdowns currently in place around the world can have an impact on the ability of Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) to carry out audits, which are required at certified farms on an annual basis.

The publication of the new policy aims to provide some flexibility by allowing where possible for audits to be postponed or conducted remotely, while ensuring that ASC’s stringent requirements continue to be robustly applied.

ASC has taken numerous steps to help tackle the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak and protect staff and stakeholders. All ASC international travel and sponsored events attracting international travellers have been cancelled until at least the end of May. To support the various national requirements to limit the spread of illness ASC staff around the world are working from home, but remain fully engaged and reachable by email or mobile device.

• Go to the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership’s list of COVID-19 resources
• View ASC’s updated audit policy for COVID-19