22 May 2020. AENOR certifies Fred. Olsen Express as Spain's leading ferry company for its good practices in the management of risks associated with COVID-19.
Specifically, this mark is an external endorsement of the effective application of the protocols and measures developed by the ferry ship company to guarantee the safety of its passenger and workers and their implementation in all the company's centres, in addition to confirming that they are aligned with the recommendations and requirements of different sectoral and specific documents issued by national and international organisations.
The methodology created by AENOR represents a complete approach to the management of COVID-19 related risks by organisations, from the management of the specific risks of each organisation to the application of protocols aligned with them. Actions are also audited with regard to occupational health management, good cleaning practices, correct use of chemicals, good practices in personnel hygiene and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), training and practices of staff in their private environment, such as the hygiene of their personal vehicles or laundry. Similarly, training and information for workers and communication with stakeholders are examined; as well as waste management and organisational measures to minimise risks. All of this is aligned with the revision of their contingency and business continuity plans.
According to Andrés Marín, CEO of Fred.Olsen, S.A., "we have done and continue to do a great job to guarantee the safety of passengers and staff, and this certification confirms that we are on the right track. Since the end of January, we have been working on contingency plans and specific protocols to be prepared for possible COVID-19 cases, which we have adapted as the situation has evolved and that are in-line with legislative changes and the needs of our workers and customers. This has enabled us to be the first company in the sector to pass the audit and obtain this certification created by AENOR".
The audit was performed in two phases. The first phase looks at documents and reviews the procedures and measures implemented, and the second phase verifies adequacy and correct implementation of the plan in the different work centres: which, in the case of Fred, include ships, terminals, work centres and head office. Olsen Express. Once the stamp has been obtained it is valid for a year, but must be monitored every three months.
The ferry company chose to become certified by AENOR due to the credibility and confidence it offers and because it has an ethical and behavioural code, which is demonstrated by its impeccable track-record during more than 30 years performing management audits.
Finally, it must be noted that this certification promotes confidence among all groups, which is fundamental for economic and social recovery after the effects of the coronavirus crisis. For Marín, "these stamps not only provide the company with reassurance, as they confirm that the right work has been performed, but also convey confidence to customers, employees and the general public, as they confirm our commitment to preventing the spread of COVID-19".
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