COVID-19

COVID-19 has only reinforced the fact that the job MEBA and other mariners perform is critical to our nation and its well-being. Day in and day out, MEBA goes up the gangways and sails into adversity; our union is certainly composed of front line essential workers risking exposure to themselves to deliver goods for our nation.

How We've Adapted

Union operations have changed to adapt to the pandemic while maintaining our core principles. We have allowed for advanced job calls to allow for the various testing formats that companies have established. We have allowed permanents to clear the hall remotely to remove unnecessary exposure risks. The MEBA allows members to participate in job call from the parking lot as another way for members to get work in the safest manner possible. And, of course, our halls are following CDC guidelines in regards to cleaning, wearing masks, and practicing social distancing. We have not closed the halls or gone to remote job calls, as transparency and effort is what makes success in the MEBA fair and obtainable.

Rapid Response Plans

Several vessels have had COVID positives, and the MEBA has worked collaboratively with companies to implement the appropriate response plans, doing our best to ensure the safety of the off going crews and their families, as well as the oncoming crews. Some halls have also had COVID-19 people inside, and those halls went through similar response plans.

Most companies have established test procedures for joining permanents and rotaries, and the union has ensured they are minimally disruptive. When quarantining has been required, the MEBA has been steadfast in our requirement for full wages and benefits. The union has supported all Mariner restriction claims for ports where local orders allow shore leave.

Honor and Commitment

Through the unwavering call to duty of our membership, the MEBA will persevere through COVID-19 and should be honored for their service to the union and commitment to our country. US Merchant Marine – In Peace and War.