Steps to take to prevent the spread of multinucleate sphere unknown (MSX) and Dermo from primary control zones (PCZs) to other locations within Canada.
Before entering a PCZ
Make sure the vessel or boat is clean and in good repair
- remove barnacles, dirt and algae from hulls
- plug/block bilge and ballast tanks from taking on seawater within 500 metres of the barrier to the PCZ
Wear waterproof protective gear
- put on oil clothes, hip/chest waders, gloves and boots that can easily be cleaned and rinsed or stored in bags or containers
- wear dedicated boots only in the PCZ and not elsewhere
Be prepared with essential supplies
- carry a sufficient supply of fresh water for cleaning and rinsing gear, equipment and contaminated areas
- bring leakproof bags and containers for storing protective gear before you arrive at the wharf or dock
Confirm permit requirements
- make sure you have the correct permit to operate within the PCZ by using the permits and conditions tool
- follow biosecurity procedures and do not bring materials from an infected zone into a non-infected zone without a specific permit
Operating within a PCZ
- wear waterproof protective gear and dedicated boots while performing activities in the PCZ
- be ready to remove and bag or clean and disinfect gear before exiting the PCZ
Before exiting a PCZ
Clean, rinse and disinfect
- use fresh water to thoroughly clean and rinse all boots, gear and equipment to remove mud, sand and organic matter
- disinfect gear and equipment according to manufacturer's directions ensure disinfectant is disposed of in accordance with environmental and provincial/territorial requirements
If you are unable to clean, rinse and disinfect gear and equipment at the time of exit
Contain
- make sure boots, gear, equipment and any other materials are double-bagged in secure, leakproof containers
- follow the cleaning and disinfection steps above at the earliest opportunity
Dispose
- place gear or equipment that cannot be cleaned and disinfected in a leakproof bag or container
- discard it at the nearest location within the PCZ (for example, wharf, boat slip, etc.)