CELEX: 51996PC0470
Language: en
Date: 1996-10-01
Title: Proposal for a COUNCIL DIRECTIVE amending Directive 94/58/EC on the minimum level of training of seafarers

Avis juridique important

|

51996PC0470

Proposal for a COUNCIL DIRECTIVE amending Directive 94/58/EC on the minimum level of training of seafarers  /* COM/96/0470 FINAL - SYN 96/0240 */  

Official Journal C 367 , 05/12/1996 P. 0001

Proposal for a Council Directive amending Directive 94/58/EC on the minimum level of training  of seafarers (96/C 367/01) (Text with EEA relevance) COM(96) 470 final - 96/0240 (SYN) (Submitted by the Commission on 2 October 1996) THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Article 84 (2)  thereof, Having regard to the proposal from the Commission, Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee, Acting in accordance with the procedure referred to in Article 189 (c) of the Treaty, Whereas Council Directive 94/58/EC of 22 November 1994 on the minimum level of training of  seafarers (1) in Article 12 {2) provides that following the adoption of new instruments or  protocols to the STCW Convention referred to in Article 4 (v), the Council, acting on a proposal  from the Commission, shall decide, taking into account the Member States' parliamentary procedures,  as well as the relevant procedures within the International Maritime Organization (IMO), on the  detailed arrangements for ratifying those new instruments or protocols, while ensuring that they  are applied uniformly and simultaneously in the Member States; Whereas Article 9 (3) (a) of this Directive provides that a set of criteria for the recognition of  types of certificates issued by institutes or administrations of third countries will be defined by  the Council, acting in accordance with the conditions of the Treaty; Whereas in its Communication on Safe Seas the Commission (2) has announced that actions to be taken  at Community level in the field of maritime safety and pollution prevention at sea should be, where  appropriate, in line with the internationally agreed rules and standards; Whereas the IMO Conference of 26 June to 7 July 1995 adopted the revised Convention on Stadards of  Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW Convention) and the Seafarers'  Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code; Whereas the provisions of the revised STCW Convention should be properly reflected in the Directive  as soon as possible in order to ensure that Member States act in consistency with their obligations  at international level; Whereas in order to prepare the proposal required under Article 9 (3) of Council Directive  94/58/EC, it was appropriate to wait for the approval by the IMO Conference of 26 June to 7 July  1995 of the revised STCW Convention which, inter alia, introduces provisions dealing with the  recognition of certificates at international level; Whereas the establishment of the common criteria for the recognition by Member States of  certificates issued by institutes or administrations of third countries should be based on the  training and certification requirements as agreed in the framework of the revised STCW Convention; Whereas the common criteria for recognition of certificates for service on board ships flying the  flag of a Member State should be based on the capacity of the maritime training institute attended  by the seafarer; whereas criteria for the approval by Member States of maritime training institutes  in third countries and criteria for the approval of maritime education and training programmes and  courses of these institutes should therefore be established; Whereas for the enhancement of maritime safety and pollution prevention at sea the watchkeeping  requirements of the STCW Convention including the provisions on rest periods for watchkeeping  personnel should be introduced in the present Directive; Whereas port State control provisions should be broadened as the revised STCW Convention requires; HAS ADOPTED THIS DIRECTIVE: Article 1 Directive 94/58/EC is hereby amended as follows: 1. The following Article is inserted: 'Article 3a Certificates and endorsements 1. Certificates shall be in the official language or languages of the issuing Member State. If the  language used is not English, the text shall include a translation into that language. 2. In respect of radio operators, Member States may: (a) include the additional knowledge required by the relevant regulations in the examination for  the issue of a certificate complying with the Radio Regulations; or (b) issue a separate certificate indicating that the holder has the additional knowledge required  by the relevant regulations. 3. The endorsement required by article VI of the STCW Convention to attest the issue of a  certificate issued by a third country shall only be issued if all the requirements of Article 9 (3)  (a) have been complied with. 4. At the discretion of a Member State endorsements may be incorporated in the format of the  certificates being issued as provided for in section A-I/2 of the STCW Code. If so incorporated the  form used shall be that set forth in section A-I/2, paragraph 1. If issued otherwise, the form of  endorsements used shall be that set forth in paragraph 2 of that section. 5. A member State which recognizes a certificate under the procedure of Article 9 (3) (a) shall  endorse such certificate to attest its recognition. The form of the endorsement used shall be that  set forth in paragraph 3 of section A-I/2 of the STCW Code. 6. The endorsements referred to in paragraphs 3, 4 and 5: (a) may be issued as separate documents; (b) shall each be assigned a unique number, except that endorsements attesting the issue of a  certificate may be assigned the same number as the certificate concerned, provided that that number  is unique; and (c) shall expire as soon as the certificate endorsed expires or is withdrawn, suspended or  cancelled by the third country which issued it and, in any case, not more than five years after  their date of issue. 7. The capacity in which the holder of a certificate is authorized to serve shall be identified in  the form of endorsement in terms identical to those used in the applicable safe manning  requirements of the Member State. 8. Member States may use a format different from the format given in section A-I/2 of the STCW  Code, provided that, as a minimum, the required information is provided in Roman characters and  Arabic figures, taking account of the variations permitted under section A-I/2. 9. Any certificate required by the Directive must be kept available in its original form on board  the ship on which the holder is serving.` 2. In Article 4: - paragraph (c) is replaced by the following text: '(c) "deck officer" means an officer qualified in accordance with the provisions of chapter II of  the Annex.` - paragraph (d) is replaced by the following text: '(d) "chief mate" means the officer next in rank to the master and upon whom the command of the  ship will fall in the event of the incapacity of the master.` - paragraph (e) is replaced by the following text: '(e) "engineer officer" means an officer qualified in accordance with the provisions of chapter III  of the Annex.` - paragraph (f) is replaced by the following text: '(f) "chief engineer officer" means the senior engineer officer responsible for the mechanical  propulsion and the operation and maintenance of the mechanical and electrical installations of the  ship.` - paragraph (g) is replaced by the following text: '(g) "second engineer officer" means the engineer officer next in rank to the chief engineer  officer and upon whom the responsibility for the mechanical propulsion and the operation and  maintenance of the mechanical and electrical installations of the ship will fall in the event of  the incapacity of the chief engineer officer.` - paragraph (i) is replaced by the following text: '(i) "radio operator" means a person holding an appropriate certificate issued or recognised by the  competent authorities under the provisions of the Radio Regulations.` - paragraph (o) is replaced by the following text: '(o) "propulsion power" means the total maximum continuous rated output power in kilowatts of all  the ship's main propulsion machinery which appears on the ship's certificate of registry or other  official document.` - paragraph (q) is replaced by the following text: '(q) "chemical tanker" means a ship constructed or adapted and used for the carriage in bulk of any  liquid product listed in chapter 17 of the International Bulk Chemical Code as in force at [1997]  (1). (1) Date of entry into force of this Directive.` - paragraph (r) is replaced by the following text: '(r) "liquefied gas tanker" means a ship constructed or adapted and used for the carriage in bulk  of any liquefied gas or other product listed in chapter 19 of the International Gas Carrier Code as  in force at [1997] (1). (1) Date of entry into force of this Directive.` - paragraph (v) is replaced by the following text: '(v) "STCW Convention" means the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification  and Watchkeeping for Seafarers as it applies to the matters concerned taking into account the  transitional provisions of article VII and regulation I/15 of the Convention and including, where  appropriate, the applicable provisions of the STCW Code, all being applied as in force at [1997]  (1). (1) Date of entry into force of this Directive.` - the following paragraphs are inserted: '(w) "Radio duties" include, as appropriate, watchkeeping and technical maintenance and repairs  conducted in accordance with the Radio Regulations, the International Convention for the Safety of  Life at Sea and, at the discretion of each Administration, the relevant recommendations of the  Organization; (x) "Ro-ro passenger ship" means a passenger ship with ro-ro cargo spaces or special category  spaces as defined in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as in force  at [1997] (1); (y) "STCW Code" means the Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code as  adopted by the IMO Conference resolution 2 of 26 June to 7 July 1995, as in force at [1997] (1); (z) "Function" means a group of tasks, duties and responsibilities, as specified in the STCW Code,  necessary for ship operation, safety of life at sea or protection of the marine environment; (ab) "Company" means the owner of the ship or any other organization or person such as the manager,  or the bareboat charterer, who has assumed the responsibility for operation of the ship from the  shipowner and who, on assuming such responsibility, has agreed to take over all the duties and  responsibilities imposed on the company by these regulations; (ac) "Appropriate certificate" means a certificate issued and endorsed in accordance with the  provisions of this Directive and entitling the lawful holder thereof to serve in the capacity and  perform the functions involved at the level of responsibility specified therein on a ship of the  type, tonnage, power and means of propulsion concerned while engaged on the particular voyage  concerned; (ad) "Seagoing service" means service on board a ship relevant to the issue of a certificate or  other qualification. (ae) "Accredited training institute" means a maritime training academy, college, training institute  or other entity approved by a Member State for the purpose of providing approved maritime education  and training; (af) "Approved" means approved by a Member State as meeting the maritime education and training  requirements for service on board ships flying its flag; (ag) "Third country" means a country which is not a Member State. (1) Date of entry into force of this Directive.` 3. The following Articles are inserted: 'Article 5a Principles governing near-coastal voyages 1. Member States may introduce standards of education and training lower than those provided in  this Directive in respect of near-coastal voyages. In so doing they shall not impose training,  experience or certification requirements on the seafarers serving on board the ships entitled to  fly the flag of another Member State and engaged on such voyages in a manner resulting in more  stringent requirements for such seafarers than for seafarers serving on board ships entitled to fly  its own flag. In no case shall Member States impose requirements in respect of seafarers serving on  board ships flying the flag of another Member State in excess of those of the Directive in respect  of ships not engaged on near-coastal voyages. 2. With respect to ships entitled to fly the flag of a Member State regularly engaged on  near-coastal voyages off the coast of another Member State, the Member State whose flag the ship is  entitled to fly shall prescribe training, experience and certification requirements for seafarers  serving on such ships at least equal to those of the Member State off whose coast the ship is  engaged, provided that they do not exceed the requirements of the Directive in respect of ships not  engaged on near-coastal voyages. Seafarers serving on a ship which extends its voyage beyond what  is defined as a near-coastal voyage by a Member State and enters waters not covered by that  definition shall fulfil the appropriate requirements of the Directive. 3. A Member State may afford a ship which is entitled to fly its flag the benefits of the  near-coastal voyage provisions of the Directive when it is regularly engaged off the coast of a  non-Party to the STCW Convention on near-coastal voyages as defined by the Member State. 4. Member States before deciding on the definition of near-coastal voyages and the conditions of  education and training required thereof in accordance with the requirements of this Article shall  communicate to the Commission the details of the provisions intended to be adopted. Such conditions  may only be adopted by Member States if they are approved in accordance with the procedure laid  down in Article 13. Article 5b Penalties or disciplinary measures 1. Member States shall establish processes and procedures for the impartial investigation of any  reported incompetency, act or omission that may pose a direct threat to safety of life or property  at sea or to the marine environment by the holders of certificates or endorsements issued by that  Member State in connection with their performance of duties related to their certificates and for  the withdrawal, suspension and cancellation of such certificates for such cause and for the  prevention of fraud. 2. Each Member State shall prescribe penalties or disciplinary measures for cases in which the  provisions of its national legislation giving effect to the Directive are not complied with in  respect of ships entitled to fly its flag or of seafarers duly certificated by that Member State. 3. In particular, such penalties or disciplinary measures shall be prescribed and enforced in cases  in which: (a) a company or a master has engaged a person not holding a certificate as required by the  Directive; (b) a master has allowed any function or service in any capacity required by the Directive to be  performed by a person holding an appropriate certificate, to be performed by a person not holding  the required certificate, a valid dispensation or having the documentary proof required by Article  9, (3) (a); or (c) a person has obtained by fraud or forged documents an engagement to perform any function or  serve in any capacity required by the Directive to be performed or filled by a person holding a  certificate or dispensation. 4. Member States within whose jurisdiction there is located any company which, or any person who,  is believed on clear grounds to have been responsible for, or to have knowledge of, any apparent  non-compliance with the Directive specified in paragraph 3, shall extend co-operation to any Member  State or, subject to reciprocity, third country which advises them of its intention to initiate  proceedings under its jurisdiction. Article 5c Quality standards 1. Member States shall ensure that: (a) all training, assessment of competence, certification, endorsement and revalidation activities  carried out by non-governmental agencies or entities under their authority are continuously  monitored through a quality standards system to ensure achievement of defined objectives, including  those concerning the qualifications and experience of instructors and assessors; and (b) where governmental agencies or entities perform such activities, there shall be a quality  standards system; (c) the education and training objectives and related standards of competence to be achieved are  clearly defined and identify the levels of knowledge, understanding and skills appropriate to the  examinations and assessments required under the STCW Convention. The objectives and related quality  standards may be specified separately for different courses and training programmes and shall cover  the administration of the certification system; (d) the field of application of the quality standards shall cover the administration of the  certification system, all training courses and programmes, examinations and assessments carried out  by or under the authority of the Member State and the qualifications and experience required of  instructors and assessors; having regard to the policies, systems, controls and internal quality  assurance reviews established to ensure achievement of the defined objectives. 2. Member States shall also ensure that an independent evaluation of the levels of knowledge,  understanding, skills and competence acquisition and assessment activities, and of the  administration of the certification system, is conducted at intervals of not more than five years  by qualified persons who are not themselves involved in the activities concerned in order to verify  that: (a) all internal management control and monitoring measures and follow-up actions comply with  planned arrangements and documented procedures and are effective in ensuring achievement of the  defined objectives; (b) the results of each independent evaluation are documented and brought to the attention of those  responsible for the area evaluated; and (c) timely action is taken to correct deficiencies. 3. A report relating to the evaluation required by paragraph 2 shall be communicated by Member  States to the Commission within 6 months from the date the evaluation has been carried out. 4. In applying the provisions of this Article, Member States shall take into account the provisions  of section B-I/8 of the STCW Code. Article 5d Medical Standards - Issue and registration of certificates 1. Member States shall establish standards of medical fitness for seafarers, particularly regarding  eyesight and hearing. 2. Member States shall ensure that certificates are issued only to candidates who comply with the  requirements of this Article. 3. Candidates for certification shall provide satisfactory proof: (a) of their identity; (b) that their age is not less than that prescribed in the regulation of the Annex to this  Directive relevant to the certificate applied for; (c) that they meet the standards of medical fitness, particularly regarding eyesight and hearing,  established by the Member State and hold a valid document attesting to their medical fitness,  issued by a duly qualified medical practitioner recognized by the competent authorities of Member  States; (d) of having completed the seagoing service and any related compulsory training required by the  regulations of the Annex to this Directive for the certificate applied for; and (e) that they meet the standards of competence prescribed by the regulations of the Annex for the  capacities, functions and levels that are to be identified in the endorsement to the certificate. 4. Member States undertake to: (a) maintain an electronic register or registers of all certificates and endorsements for masters  and officers and, as appropriate, ratings, which are issued, have expired or have been revalidated,  suspended, cancelled or reported lost or destroyed and of dispensations issued; and (b) make available information on the status of such certificates, endorsements and dispensations  to other Member States or, subject to reciprocity, third countries and companies which request  verification of the authenticity and validity of certificates produced to them by seafarers seeking  recognition of their certificates under the provisions of Article 9 or employment on board ship. 5. Member States in applying the provisions of this Article shall take into account the recommended  guidance given in section B-1/9 of the STCW Code. Article 5e Revalidation of certificates 1. Every master, officer and radio operator holding a certificate issued or recognized under any  chapter of the Annex other than chapter VI who is serving at sea or intends to return to sea after  a period ashore shall, in order to continue to qualify for seagoing service, be required at  intervals not exceeding five years to: (a) meet the standards of medical fitness prescribed by Article 5d; and (b) establish continued professional competence in accordance with section A-I/11 of the STCW  Code. 2. Every master, officer and radio operator shall, for continuing seagoing service on board ships  for which special training requirements have been internationally agreed upon, successfully  complete approved relevant training. 3. Member States shall compare the standards of competence which they require of candidates for  certificates issued before 1 February 2002 with those specified for the appropriate certificate in  part A of the STCW Code, and shall determine the need for requiring the holders of such  certificates to undergo appropriate refresher and updating training or assessment. The refresher and updating courses shall be approved and include changes in relevant national and  international regulations concerning the safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine  environment and take account of any updating of the standard of competence concerned. 4. Member States shall, in consultation with those concerned, formulate or promote the formulation  of a structure of refresher and updating courses as provided for in section A-I/11 of the STCW  Code. 5. For the purpose of updating the knowledge of masters, officers and radio operators, Member  States shall ensure that the texts of recent changes in national and international regulations  concerning the safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine environment are made  available to ships entitled to fly their flag. Article 5f Use of simulators 1. The performance standards and other provisions set forth in section A-I/12 of the STCW Code and  such other requirements as are prescribed in part A of the STCW Code for any certificate concerned  shall be complied with in respect of: (a) all mandatory simulator-based training; (b) any assessment of competence required by part A of the STCW Code which is carried out by means  of a simulator; and (c) any demonstration, by means of a simulator, of continued proficiency required by part A of the  STCW Code. 2. Simulators installed or brought into use prior to 1 February 2002 may be exempted from full  compliance with the performance standards referred to in paragraph 1, at the discretion of the  Member States. Article 5g Responsibilities of companies 1. Member States shall, in accordance with the provisions of paragraphs 2 and 3 hold companies  responsible for the assignment of seafarers for service in their ships in accordance with the  provisions of the present Directive, and shall require every such company to ensure that: (a) each seafarer assigned to any of its ships holds an appropriate certificate in accordance with  the provisions of the Directive; (b) its ships are manned in compliance with the applicable safe manning requirements of their  Administration; (c) documentation and data relevant to all seafarers employed on their ships are maintained and  readily accessible, and include, without being limited to, documentation and data on their  experience, training, medical fitness and competence in assigned duties; (d) seafarers on being assigned to any of its ships are familiarized with their specific duties and  with all ship arrangements, installations, equipment, procedures and ship characteristics that are  relevant to their routine or emergency duties; and (e) the ship's complement can effectively co-ordinate their activities in an emergency situation  and in performing functions vital to safety or to the prevention or mitigation of pollution. 2. Companies, masters and crew members each have responsibility for ensuring that the obligations  set out in this Article are given full and complete effect and that such other measures as may be  necessary are taken to ensure that each crew member can make a knowledgeable and informed  contribution to the safe operation of the ship. 3. The company shall provide written instructions to the master of each ship to which the Directive  applies, setting forth the policies and the procedures to be followed to ensure that all seafarers  who are newly employed on board the ship are given a reasonable opportunity to become familiar with  the shipboard equipment, operating procedures and other arrangements needed for the proper  performance of their duties, before being assigned to those duties. Such policies and procedures  shall include: (a) allocation of a reasonable period of time during which each newly employed seafarer will have  an opportunity to become acquainted with: - the specific equipment the seafarer will be using or operating, and - ship specific watchkeeping, safety, environmental protection and emergency procedures and  arrangements the seafarer needs to know to perform the assigned duties properly; and b) designation of a knowledgeable crew member who will be responsible for ensuring that an  opportunity is provided to each newly employed seafarer to receive essential information in a  language the seafarer understands. Article 5h Transitional provisions 1. Until 1 February 2002, Member States may continue to issue, recognize and endorse certificates  in accordance with the provisions which applied prior to the date for transposal into national law  of the provisions of Directive . . ./. . ./EC (1) in respect of those seafarers who commenced  approved seagoing service, and an approved education and training programme or an approved training  course before 1 August 1998. 2. Until 1 February 2002, Member States may continue to renew and revalidate certificates and  endorsements in accordance with the provisions which applied prior to the date for transposal into  national law of the provisions of Directive . . ./. . ./EC (1). 3. Where a Member State, pursuant to Article 5e, reissues or extends the validity of certificates  originally issued by it under the provisions which applied prior to the date of transposal into  national law of the provisions of Directive . . ./. . ./EC (1), the Member State may, at its  discretion, replace tonnage limitations appearing on the original certificates as follows: (a) "200 gross registered tons" may be replaced by "500 gross tonnage"; and (b) "1 600 gross registered tons" may be replaced by "3 000 gross tonnage". Article 5i Fitness for duty 1. Member States shall, for the purpose of preventing fatigue, establish and enforce rest periods  for watchkeeping personnel and require that watch systems are so arranged that the efficiency of  all watchkeeping personnel is not impaired by fatigue and that duties are so organized that the  first watch at the commencement of a voyage and subsequent relieving watches are sufficiently  rested and otherwise fit for duty. 2. All persons who are assigned duty as officer in charge of a watch or as a rating forming part of  a watch shall be provided a minimum of 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period. 3. The hours of rest may be divided into no more than two periods, one of which shall be at least 6  hours in length. 4. The requirements for rest periods laid down in paragraphs 1 and 2 need not be maintained in the  case of an emergency or drill or in other overriding operational conditions. 5. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs 2 and 3, the minimum period of ten hours may be  reduced to not less than 6 consecutive hours provided that any such reduction shall not extend  beyond two days and not less than 70 hours of rest are provided each seven day period. 6. Member States shall require that watch schedules be posted where they are easily accessible. 7. In applying the provisions of this Article, Member States shall take into account the provisions  referred to in section B-VIII/1 of the STCW Code. (1) This amending Directive.` 4. In Article 7: - the existing text should be described as paragraph 1, - in the second indent of paragraph 1 the words 'Member States shall ensure that all examiners are  properly qualified` shall be deleted, - the following paragraph shall be added: '2. Member States shall ensure the following: Training and assessment (a) All training and assessment of seafarers is: (i) structured in accordance with the written programmes, including such methods and media of  delivery, procedures and course material as are necessary to achieve the prescribed standard of  competence; and (ii) conducted, monitored, evaluated and supported by persons qualified in accordance with  paragraphs (d), (e) and (f). (b) Persons conducting in-service training or assessment on board ship shall only do so when such  training or assessment will not adversely affect the normal operation of the ship and they can  dedicate their time and attention to training or assessment. Qualifications of instructors, supervisors and assessors (c) Insctructors, supervisors and assessors are appropriately qualified for the particular types  and levels of training or assessment of competence of seafarers either on board or ashore. In-service training (d) Any person conducting in-service training of a seafarer, either on board or ashore, which is  intended to be used in qualifying for certification under the Directive shall: (i) have an appreciation of the training programme and an understanding of the specific training  objectives for the particular type of training being conducted; (ii) be qualified in the task of which training is being conducted; and (iii) if conducting training using a simulator: - have received appropriate guidance in instructional techniques involving the use of simulators,  and - have gained practical operational experience on the particular type of simulator being used; (e) Any person responsible for the supervision of in-service training of a seafarer intended to be  used in qualifying for certification shall have a full understanding of the training programme and  the specific objectives for each type of training being conducted. Assessment of competence (f) Any person conducting in-service assessment of competence of a seafarer, either on board or  ashore, which is intended to be used in qualifying for certification shall: (i) have an appropriate level of knowledge and understanding of the competence to be assessed; (ii) be qualified in the task for which the assessment is being made; (iii) have received appropriate guidance in assessment methods and practice; (iv) have gained practical assessment experience; and (v) if conducting assessment involving the use of simulators, have gained practical assessment  experience on the particular type of simulator under the supervision and to the satisfaction of an  experienced assessor. Training and assessment within an institution (g) When a Member State recognizes a course of a training institution, or a qualification granted  by a training institution, as part of its requirements for the issue of a certificate, the  qualifications and experience of instructors and assessors are covered in the application of the  quality standard provisions of Article 5e. Such qualification, experience and application of  quality standards shall incorporate appropriate training in instructional techniques, and training  and assessment methods and practice and comply with all applicable requirements of paragraphs (b)  to (f).` 5. Article 9 (3) (a) is replaced by the following: '(a) A Member State may only recognise seafarers' certificates issued by third countries for  service on board ships flying its flag if all of the following conditions are fulfilled: 1) A certificate must: (i) have been issued by a Party of the STCW Convention that: - has communicated information before 1 August 1998 on the implementation of the STCW Convention to  the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organisation which has, within a fixed period  of time to be decided under the procedure of Article 13, been identified by the Maritime Safety  Committee of the International Maritime Organisation as having given full and complete effect to  the provisions of the STCW Convention, - within each five year period following 1 August 1998, has been indentified by the Maritime Safety  Committee of the International Maritime Organisation as having complied with STCW Convention  requirements for periodic independent evaluation of the quality standards it applies to all  training, assessment of competence, certification, endorsement and revalidation activities carried  out or performed under the Convention and has provided a satisfactory report thereon, - has been recognized through the procedure of Article 13 as complying fully with all STCW  Convention requirements concerning standards of competence, the issue and endorsement of  certificates and record keeping, and - has undertaken to give prompt notification to the Member State concerned of any significant  change made in its arrangements for STCW Convention related training and certification; (ii) bear, be accompanied by, or incorporate in its wording an endorsement attesting its issue by  the above Party; (iii) be suitable for service on ships engaged on voyages extending beyond nearcoastal voyages as  may be defined by the above Party; (iv) have a remaining validity, including that of the endorsement attesting its issue, of not less  than one calendar year; and (v) be accompanied by documentary evidence that demonstrates the holder has: - completed maritime education and training conducted at a training institute complying with the  conditions set out in sub-subparagraphs 2 and 3, - completed an approved radar simulator course, - completed an approved Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) simulator course, if the endorsement  attesting recognition is to be valid for service on ARPA equipped ships, - completed such refresher and updating training or assessment, additional to the above, as has  been determined to be necessary by the issuing Party, if the certificate was issued under  provisions of the STCW Convention in force at any time prior to 1 February 1997 under the  provisions of regulation I/15 of the STCW Convention as amended, - the ability to communicate orally and to understand written and oral instructions, orders and  advice relevant to the functions that he or she is to be authorized to perform, and - appropriate knowledge of the maritime legislation of the Member State relevant to the functions  at the management level that he or she is to be permitted to perform. 2) Criteria for approval of maritime training institutes. For approval as a maritime training institute authorized to conduct education and training  programmes and courses accepted by a Member State as meeting the requirements for service on board  ships flying its flag, a maritime training institute must: (i) be provided with: - accommodation and facilities which establish a teaching, study and learning environment suited to  the conduct of approved maritime education and training programmes and courses, - all equipment and such control engineering, electrical, electronic, hydraulic, navigational aid,  pneumatic and radiocommunication laboratory and workshop facilities and teaching aids as are  identified in the written programmes of the maritime education and training or courses to be  conducted, and - indexed up-to-date reference material in adequate variety and sufficiency of copies, covering all  subjects incorporated in the approved maritime education and training programmes or courses which  the training institute is to be accredited to conduct; (ii) have appointed instructors, in sufficient numbers to adequately serve the approved training  programmes and courses to be conducted, who have received appropriate training in instructional  techniques and training and assessment methods and practice; and - have an appreciation of the training programme and an understanding of the specific training  objectives for the particular type of-training to be conducted, - are qualified in the task for which the training is to be conducted, - if using a simulator: - have received appropriate guidance in instructional techniques involving the use of simulators,  and - have gained practical operational experience on the particular type of simulator to be used; (iii) have appointed training supervisors, appropriate to the approved training programmes and  courses to be conducted at the institute, who have a full understanding of each approved training  programme and course they are to supervise including its specific objectives; (iv) have appointed assessors who have received appropriate training in assessment methods and  practice and: - have an appropriate level of knowledge and understanding of the competence to be assessed, - are qualified in the task for which the assessment is to be made, - have received appropriate guidance in assessment methods and practice, - have gained practical assessment experience, and - if they are to conduct assessment involving the use of simulators, have gained practical  assessment experience on the particular type of simulator that is to be employed, under the  supervision and to the satisfaction of an experienced assessor; (v) maintain records of all students who complete their maritime education or training at the  institute, incorporating details of the education and training received, the dates concerned, their  training record books as completed and the diploma granted, together with their full name and date  and place of birth; (vi) provide the Member State with a computerized copy of the above records covering the maritime  education and training programmes and courses previously conducted by the institute that are to be  recognized as meeting the requirements for service on board ships flying its flag and a sample or  samples of the formats of the diplomas and certificates of attendance granted; (vii) update the above records at appropriate and mutually agreed intervals by providing a  computerized copy of similar information on recently graduated students; (viii) continuously monitor its training and assessment activities through a quality standards  system to ensure achievement of its defined objectives including those concerning the  qualifications and experience of its instructors and assessors; and (ix) undergo evaluation at intervals of not more than five years, by suitably qualified persons who  are not themselves involved in the training or assessment activities concerned, so as to verify  that the administrative and operational procedures at all levels within the institute are managed,  organized, undertaken, supervised and monitored internally in order to ensure their fitness for  purpose and achievement of stated objectives. 3) Criteria for approval of maritime education and training programmes and courses. For approval as meeting the maritime education and training requirements for service on board ships  flying the flag of a Member State, a training programme or course must: (i) be structured in accordance with written programmes which: - follow the format used in the relevant IMO model courses or provide equivalent detail of the  course structure and the training objectives or outcomes, - take full account of the guidance given in the IMO document 'Guidance on the Implementation of  IMO Model Courses` (*), and - include such methods and media of delivery, procedures, and course material as are necessary to  achieve the prescribed standard of competence; (ii) be conducted, monitored, evaluated and supported by persons qualified in accordance with  subparagraphs (ii) through (iv) of paragraph 2; (iii) incorporate the education and training objectives and the competence, knowledge,  understanding and proficiency specified in STCW 95 for the functions and levels of responsibility  concerned or the tasks, duties and responsibilities involved; (iv) provide in a structured teaching sequence, the detailed syllabus or syllabi to be followed in  conducting the training programme or course, written in learning objective or training outcome  format; (v) identify the textbooks, documents, technical material and other publications to be used in  association with the training programme or course; (vi) indicate the time allocated to the delivery of each subject area to be covered and a planned  timetable for the guidance of instructors and students; and (vii) if conducted at a training institute prior to the date of its approval, have provided a level  of maritime education and training considered by the Member State as equivalent to education and  training provided in accordance with the above criteria. 4) Certificates and endorsements issued by a Member State under the provisions of this Article in  recognition of, or attesting the recognition of, a certificate issued by a third country, may not  be used as the basis for further recognition by another Member State. 5) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 5 of Article 3a a Member State may, if circumstances  require, allow a seafarer to serve in a capacity, other than radio officer or radio operator,  except as provided by the Radio Regulations, for a period not exceeding three months on board a  ship flying its flag, while holding an appropriate and valid certificate issued and endorsed as  required by a third country but which has not yet been endorsed for recognition so as to render it  appropriate for service on board a ship flying its flag. Documentary proof shall be readily  available that application for an endorsement has been submitted to the competent authorities. (*) IMO - 1988 - 096/88, London.` 6. The following Articles are inserted: 'Article 10a Port State control1. The priority control provisions of Article 10 shall, inter alia, cover inspections of the  following: - verification that seafarers who are required to be certificated in accordance with STCW 95 hold  an appropriate certificate or a valid dispensation, or provide documentary proof that an  application for an endorsement attesting recognition has been submitted to the authorities of the  country whose flag the ship flies, - verification that the numbers and certificates for the seafarers are in conformity with the safe  manning requirements. 2. Priority controls, as described in Article 10, shall also provide that the seafarer demonstrates  his related competence at the place of duty. Such demonstration may include verification that  operational requirements in respect of watchkeeping standards have been met and that there is a  proper response to emergency situations within the seafarer's level of competence. In the assessment, the methods for demonstrating competence together with the criteria for its  evaluation and the scope of the standards given in part A of the STCW Code shall be used. 3. Assessment of the ability of the seafarers as described in paragraph 2 shall also take place if  any of the following have occurred: - the ship has been involved in a collision, grounding or stranding, or - there has been a discharge of substances from the ship when underway, at anchor or at berth which  is illegal under any international convention, or - the ship has been manoeuvred in an erratic or unsafe manner whereby routeing measures or safe  navigation practices and procedures have not been followed, or - the ship is otherwise being operated in such a manner as to pose a danger to persons, property or  the environment. Article 11a Detention of the ship shall, inter alia, take place in cases of: - failure of seafarers to hold an appropriate certificate, to have a valid dispensation or to  provide documentary proof that an application for an endorsement has been submitted to the  authorities of the country whose flag the ship flies, - failure to comply with the applicable safe manning requirements, - failure of navigational or engineering watch arrangements to conform to the requirements  specified for the ship, - absence in a watch of a person qualified to operate equipment essential to safe navigation,  safety radiocommunications or the prevention of marine pollution, and - inability to provide for the first watch at the commencement of a voyage and for subsequent  relieving watches persons who are sufficiently rested and otherwise fit for duty.` 7. In Article 12 (1) the words 'and (s)` are replaced by the words '(s) and (y)`. 8. The Annex is replaced by the Annex to this Directive. Article 2 1. Member States shall bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions  necessary to comply with this Directive no later than 1 June 1997. 2. When Member States adopt these provisions they shall contain a reference to this Directive or  shall be announced by such reference at the time of their official publication. The methods of  making such a reference shall be laid down by the Member States. 3. Member States shall lay down the system of penalties for breaching the national provisions  adopted pursuant to this Directive and shall take all the measures necessary to ensure that those  penalties are applied. The penalties thus provided for shall be effective, proportionate and  dissuasive. 4. The Member States shall immediately communicate to the Commission the texts of all the  provisions which they adopt in the field governed by this Directive. The Commission shall inform  the other Member States thereof. Article 3 This Directive is addressed to the Member States. Article 4 This Directive shall enter into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the  European Communities. (1) OJ No L 319 of 12. 12. 1994, p. 28. (2) COM(93) 66 final.  ANNEX CHAPTER I GENERAL PROVISIONS 1. The regulations referred to in this Annex are  supplemented by the mandatory provisions contained in part A of the STCW Code as adopted by the IMO  Conference of 26 June to 7 July 1995 as in force at [1997] (1). 1.1. any reference to a requirement in a regulation also constitutes a reference to the  corresponding section of part A of the STCW Code; 1.2. in applying the regulations, the related guidance and explanatory material contained in part B  of the STCW Code shall be taken into account to the greatest degree possible in order to achieve a  more uniform implementation of the Directive provisions. 2. Part A of the STCW Code contains standards of competence required to be demonstrated by  candidates for the issue and revalidation of certificates of competency under the provisions of the  STCW Convention. To clarify the linkage between the alternative certification provisions of chapter  VII and the certification provisions of chapters II, III and IV, the abilities specified in the  standards of competence are grouped as appropriate under the following seven functions: - Navigation - Cargo handling and stowage - Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board - Marine engineering - Electrical, electronic and control engineering - Maintenance and repair - Radiocommunications at the following levels of responsibility: - Management level - Operational level - Support level. Functions and levels of responsibility are identified by subtitle in the tables of standards of  competence given in chapters II, III and IV of Part A of the STCW Code. CHAPTER II MASTER AND DECK DEPARTMENT REGULATION II/1 Mandatory minimum requirements for  certification of officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more  1. Every officer in charge of a navigational watch serving on a seagoing ship of 500 gross tonnage  or more shall hold an appropriate certificate. 2. Every candidate for certification shall: (a) be not less than 18 years of age; (b) have approved seagoing service of not less than one year as part of an approved training  programme which includes on-board training which meets the requirements of section A-II/1 of the  STCW Code and is documented in an approved training record book, or otherwise have approved  seagoing service of not less than three years; (c) have performed, during the required seagoing service, bridge watchkeeping duties under the  supervision of the master or a qualified officer for a period of not less than six months; (d) meet the applicable requirements of the regulations in chapter IV, as appropriate, for  performing designated radio duties in accordance with the Radio Regulations; and (e) have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in  section A-II/1 of the STCW Code. REGULATION II/2 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of masters and chief mates on  ships of 500 gross tonnage or more Master and chief mate on ships of 3 000 gross tonnage or more 1. Every master and chief mate on a seagoing ship of 3 000 gross tonnage or more shall hold an  appropriate certificate. 2. Every candidate for certification shall: (a) meet the requirements for certification as an officer in charge of a navigational watch on  ships of 500 gross tonnage or more and have approved seagoing service in that capacity: - for certification as chief mate, not less than 12 months, and - for certification as master, not less than 36 months; however, this period may be reduced to not  less than 24 months if not less than 12 months of such seagoing service has been served as chief  mate; and (b) have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in  section A-II/2 of the STCW Code for masters and chief mates on ships of 3 000 gross tonnage or  more. Master and chief mate on ships of between 500 and 3 000 gross tonnage 3. Every master and chief mate on a seagoing ship of between 500 and 3 000 gross tonnage shall hold  an appropriate certificate: 4. Every candidate for certification shall: (a) for certification as chief mate, meet the requirements of an officer in charge of a  navigational watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more; (b) for certification as master, meet the requirements of an officer in charge of a navigational  watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more and have approved seagoing service of not less than 36  months in that capacity; however, this period may be reduced to not less than 24 months if not less  than 12 months of such seagoing service has been served as chief mate, and (c) have completed approved training and meet the standard of competence specified in section  A-II/2 of the STCW Code for masters and chief mates on ships of between 500 and 3 000 gross  tonnage. REGULATION II/3 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of officers in charge of a  navigational watch and of masters on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage Ships not engaged on  near-coastal voyages 1. Every officer in charge of a navigational watch serving on a seagoing ship of less than 500  gross tonnage not engaged on near-coastal voyages shall hold an appropriate certificate for ships  of 500 gross tonnage or more. 2. Every master serving on a seagoing ship of less than 500 gross tonnage not engaged on  near-coastal voyages shall hold an appropriate certificate for service as master on ships of  between 500 and 3 000 gross tonnage. Ships engaged on near-coastal voyages Officer in charge of a navigational watch 3. Every officer in charge of a navigational watch on a seagoing ship of less than 500 gross  tonnage engaged on near-coastal voyages shall hold an appropriate certificate. 4. Every candidate for certification as officer in charge of a navigational watch on a seagoing  ship of less than 500 gross tonnage engaged on near-coastal voyages shall: (a) be not less than 18 years of age; (b) have completed; - special training, including an adequate period of appropriate seagoing service as required by the  Administration, or - approved seagoing service in the deck department of not less than three years; (c) meet the applicable requirements of the regulations in chapter IV, as appropriate, for  performing designated radio duties in accordance with the Radio Regulations; and (d) have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in  section A-II/3 of the STCW Code for officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less  than 500 gross tonnage engaged on near-coastal voyages. Master 5. Every master serving on a seagoing ship of less than 500 gross tonnage engaged on nearcoastal  voyages shall hold an appropriate certificate. 6. Every candidate for certification as master on a seagoing ship of less than 500 gross tonnage  engaged on near-coastal voyages shall: (a) be not less than 20 years of age; (b) have approved seagoing service of not less than 12 months as officer in charge of a  navigational watch; and (c) have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in  section A-II/3 of the STCW Code for masters on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage engaged on  near-coastal voyages. 7. Exemptions The Administration, if it considers that a ship's size and the conditions of its voyage are such as  to render the application of the full requirements of this regulation and section A-II/3 of the  STCW Code unreasonable or impracticable, may to that extent exempt the master and the officer in  charge of a navigational watch on such a ship or class of ships from some of the requirements,  bearing in mind the safety of all ships which may be operating in the same waters. REGULATION II/4 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of ratings forming part of a  navigational watch 1. Every rating forming part of a navigational watch on a seagoing ship of 500  gross tonnage or more, other than ratings under training and ratings whose duties while on watch  are of an unskilled nature, shall be duly certificated to perform such duties. 2. Every candidate for certification shall: (a) be not less than 16 years of age; (b) have completed: - approved seagoing service including not less than six months training and experience, or - special training, either pre-sea or on board ship, including an approved period of seagoing  service which shall not be less than two months; and (c) meet the standard of competence specified in section A-II/4 of the STCW Code. 3. The seagoing service, training and experience required by subparagraph (b) of paragraph 2 shall  be associated with navigational watchkeeping functions and involve the performance of duties  carried out under the direct supervision of the master, the officer in charge of the navigational  watch or a qualified rating. 4. Seafarers may be considered by a Member State to have met the requirements of this regulation if  they have served in a relevant capacity in the deck department for a period of not less than one  year within the last five preceding the entry into force of the STCW Convention for that Member  State. CHAPTER III ENGINE DEPARTMENT REGULATION III/1 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification  of officers in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine-room or designated duty engineers  in a periodically unmanned engine-room 1. Every officer in charge of an engineering watch in a  manned engine-room or designated duty engineer officer in a periodically unmanned engine-room on a  seagoing ship powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more shall hold an  appropriate certificate. 2. Every candidate for certification shall: (a) be not less than 18 years of age; (b) have completed not less than six months seagoing service in the engine department in accordance  with section A-III/1 of the STCW Code; and (c) have completed approved education and training of at least 30 months which includes on board  training documented in an approved training record book and meet the standards of competence in  section A-III/1 of the STCW Code. REGULATION III/2 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of chief engineer officers and  second engineer officers on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3 000 kW propulsion power  or more 1. Every chief engineer officer and second engineer officer on a seagoing ship powered by  main propulsion machinery of 3 000 kW propulsion power or more shall hold an appropriate  certificate. 2. Every candidate for certification shall: (a) meet the requirements for certification as an officer in charge of an engineering watch and; - for certification as a second engineer officer, shall have not less than 12 months approved  seagoing service as assistant engineer officer or engineer officer, and - for certification as chief engineer officer, shall have not less than 36 months' approved  seagoing service of which not less than 12 months shall have been served as an engineer officer in  a position of responsibility while qualified to serve as second engineer officer; and (b) have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in  section A-III/2 of the STCW Code. REGULATION III/3 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of chief engineer officers and  second engineer officers on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of between 750 kW and 3 000  kW propulsion power 1. Every chief engineer officer and second engineer officer on a sea-going  ship powered by main propulsion machinery of between 750 and 3 000 kW propulsion power shall hold  an appropriate certificate. 2. Every candidate for certification shall: (a) meet the requirements for certification as an officer in charge of an engineering watch and: - for certification as second engineer officer, shall have not less than 12 months' approved  seagoing service as assistant engineer officer or engineer or engineer officer, and - for certification as chief engineer officer, shall have not less than 24 months' approved  seagoing service of which not less than 12 months shall be served while qualified to serve a second  engineer officer; and (b) have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in  section A-III/3 of the STCW Code. 3. Every engineer officer who is qualified to serve as second engineer officer on ships powerd by  main propulsion machinery of 3 000 kW propulsion power or more, may serve as chief engineer officer  on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3 000 kW propulsion power, provided that  not less than 12 months' approved seagoing service shall been served as an engineer officer in a  position of responsibility and the certificate is so endorsed. REGULATION III/4 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of ratings forming part of a  watch in a manned engine-room or designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned  engine-room 1. Every rating forming part of an engine-room watch or designated to perform duties  in a periodically unmanned engine-room on a seagoing ship powered by main propulsion machinery of  750 kW propulsion power or more, other than ratings under training and ratings whose duties are of  an unskilled nature, shall be duly certificated to perform such duties. 2. Every candidate for certification shall: (a) be not less than 16 years of age; (b) have completed: - approved seagoing service including not less than six months training and experience,- special training, either pre-sea or on board ship, including an approved period of seagoing  service which shall not be less than two months; and (c) meet the standard of competence specified in section A-III/4 of the STCW Code. 3. The seagoing service, training and experience required by subparagraph (b) of paragraph 2 shall  be associated with engine-room watchkeeping functions and involve the performance of duties carried  out under the direct supervision of a qualified engineer officer or a qualified rating. 4. Seafarers may be considered by a Member State to have met the requirements of this regulation if  they have served in a relevant capacity in the engine department for a period of not less than one  year within the last five years preceding the entry into force of the STCW Convention for that  Member State. CHAPTER IV RADIOCOMMUNICATION AND RADIO PERSONNEL Explanatory note Mandatory provisions relating to radio watchkeeping are set forth in the Radio Regulations and in  the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended. Provisions for radio  maintenance are set forth in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as  amended, and the guidelines adopted by the International Maritime Organization. REGULATION IV/1 Application 1. Except as provided in paragraph 3, the provisions of this chapter  apply to radio personnel on ships operating in the global maritime distress and safety system  (GMDSS) as prescribed by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as  amended. 2. Until 1 February 1999, radio personnel on ships complying with the provisions of the  International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, in force immediately prior to 1  February 1992 shall comply with the provisions of the International Convention on Standards of  Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, in force prior to 1 December 1992. 3. Radio personnel on ships not required to comply with the provisions of the GMDSS in chapter IV  of the SOLAS Convention are not required to meet the provisions of this chapter. Radio personnel on  these ships are, nevertheless, required to comply with the Radio Regulations. The Administration  shall ensure the the appropriate certificates as prescribed by the Radio Regulations are issued to  or recognized in respect of such radio personnel. REGULATION IV/2 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of GMDSS radio personnel 1.  Every person in charge of or performing, radio duties on a ship required to participate in the  GMDSS shall hold an appropriate certificate related to the GMDSS, issued or recognized by the  Administration under the provisions of the Radio Regulations. 2. In addition, every candidate for certification under this regulation for service on a ship which  is required by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended, to  have a radio installation shall: (a) be not less than 18 years of age: and (b) have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in  section A-IV/2 of the STCW Code. CHAPTER V SPECIAL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONNEL ON CERTAIN TYPES OF SHIPS REGULATION V/1  Mandatory minimum requirements for the training and qualification of masters, officers and ratings  on tankers 1. Officers and ratings assigned specific duties and responsibilities related to cargo  or cargo equipment on tankers shall have completed an approved shore-based fire-fighting course in  addition to the training required by regulation VI/1 and shall have completed: (a) at least three months of approved seagoing service on tankers in order to acquire adequate  knowledge of safe operational practices; or (b) an approved tanker familiarization course covering at least the syllabus given for that course  in section A-V/1 of the STCW Code, so however that the Administration may accept a period of supervised seagoing service shorter than  that prescribed by subparagraph 1 (a), provided: (c) the period so accepted is not less than one month; (d) the tanker is of less than 3 000 gross tonnage; (e) the duration of each voyage on which the tanker is engaged during the period does not exceed 72  hours; and (f) the operational characteristics of the tanker and the number of voyages and loading and  discharging operations completed during the period allow the same level of knowledge and experience  to be acquired. 2. Masters, chief engineer officers, chief mates, second engineer officers and any person with  immediate responsibility for loading, discharging and care in transit or handling of cargo shall,  in addition to meeting the requirements of subparagraphs 1 (a) and (b), have: (a) experience appropriate to their duties on the type of tanker on which they serve; and (b) completed an approved specialized training programme which at least covers the subjects set out  in section A-V/1 of the STCW Code that are appropriate to their duties on the oil tanker, chemical  tanker or liquefied gas tanker on which they serve. 3. Within two years after the entry into force of the STCW Convention for a Member State, seafarers  may be considered to have met the requirements of subparagraph 2 (b) if they have served in a  relevant capacity on board the type of tanker concerned for a period of not less than one year  within the preceding five years. 4. Administration shall ensure that an appropriate certificate is issued to masters and officers,  who are qualified in accordance with paragraphs 1 or 2 as appropriate, or that an existing  certificate is duly endorsed. Every rating who is so qualified shall be duly certificated. REGULATION V/2 Mandatory minimum requirements for the training and qualifications of masters,  officers, ratings and other personnel on ro-ro passenger ships 1. This regulation applies to  masters, officers, ratings and other personnel serving on board ro-ro passenger engaged on  international voyages. Administrations shall determine the applicability of these requirements to  personnel serving on ro-ro passenger ships engaged on domestic voyages. 2. Prior to being assigned shipboard duties on board ro-ro passenger ships, seafarers shall have  completed the training required by paragraphs 4 to 8 below in accordance with their capacities,  duties and responsibilities. 3. Seafarers who are required to be trained in accordance with paragraphs 4, 7 and 8 below shall at  intervals not exceeding five years, undertake appropriate refresher training. 4. Masters, officers and other personnel designated on muster lists to assist passengers in  emergency situations on board ro-ro passenger ships shall have completed training in crowd  management as specified in section A-V/2, paragraph 1 of the STCW Code. 5. Masters, officers and other personnel assigned specific duties and responsibilities on board  ro-ro passenger ships shall have completed the familiarization training specified in section A-V/2,  paragraph 2 of the STCW Code. 6. Personnel providing direct service to passengers in passenger spaces on board ro-ro passenger  ships shall have completed the safety training specified in section A-V/2, paragraph 3 of the STCW  Code. 7. Masters, chief mates, chief engineer officers, second engineer officers and every person  assigned immediate responsibility for embarking and disembarking passengers, loading, discharging  or securing cargo, or closing hull openings on board ro-ro passenger ships shall have completed  approved training in passenger safety, cargo safety and hull integrity as specified in section  A-V/2, paragraph 4 of the STCW Code. 8. Masters, chief mates, chief engineer officers, second engineer officers and any person having  responsibility for the safety of passengers in emergency situations on board ro-ro passenger ships  shall have completed approved training in crisis management and human behaviour as specified in  section A-V/2, paragraph 5 of the STCW Code. 9. Administration shall ensure that documentary evidence of the training which has been completed  is issued to every person found qualified under the provisions of this regulation. CHAPTER VI EMERGENCY, OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY, MEDICAL CARE AND SURVIVAL FUNCTIONS REGULATION VI/1  Mandatory minimum requirements for familiarization, basic safety training and instruction for all  seafarers Seafarers shall receive familiarization and basic safety training or instruction in  accordance with section A-VI/1 of the STCW Code and shall meet the appropriate standard of  competence specified therein. REGULATION VI/2 Mandatory minimum requirements for the issue of certificates of proficiency in  survival craft, rescue boats and fast rescue boats 1. Every candidate for a certificate of  proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats shall: (a) be not less than 18 years of age (b) have approved seagoing service of not less than 12 months or have attended an approved training  course and have approved seagoing service of not less than six months; and (c) meet the standard of competence for certificates of proficiency in survival craft and rescue  boats set out in section A-VI/2, paragraphs 1 to 4 of the STCW Code. 2. Every candidate for a certificate of proficiency in fast rescue boats shall: (a) be the holder of a certificate of proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than  fast rescue boats; (b) have attended an approved training course; and (c) meet the standard of competence for certificates of proficiency in fast rescue boats set out in  section A-VI/2, paragraphs 5 to 8 of the STCW Code. REGULATION VI/3 Mandatory minimum requirements for training in advanced fire-fighting 1.  Seafarers designated to control fire-fighting operations shall have successfully completed advanced  training in techniques for fighting fire with particular emphasis on organization, tactics and  command in accordance with the provisions of section A-VI/3 of the STCW Code and shall meet the  standard of competence specified therein. 2. Where training in advanced fire-fighting is not included in the qualifications for the  certificate to be issued, a special certificate or documentary evidence, as appropriate, shall be  issued indicating that the holder has attended a course of training in advanced fire-fighting. REGULATION VI/4 Mandatory minimum requirements relating to medical first aid and medical care 1.  Seafarers designated to provide medical first aid on board ship shall meet the standard of  competence in medical first aid specified in section A-VI/4, paragraphs 1 to 3 of the STCW Code. 2. Seafarers designated to take charge of medical care on board ship shall meet the standard of  competence in medical care on board ships specified in section A-VI/4, paragraphs 4 to 6 of the  STCW Code. 3. Where training in medical first aid or medical care is not included in the qualifications for  the certificate to be issued, a special certificate or documentary evidence, as appropriate, shall  be issued indicating that the holder has attended a course of training in medical first aid or in  medical care. CHAPTER VII ALTERNATIVE CERTIFICATION REGULATION VII/I Issue of alternative certificates 1.  Notwithstanding the requirements for certification laid down in chapters II and III of this Annex,  Member States may elect to issue or authorize the issue of certificates other than those mentioned  in the regulations of those chapters, provided that: (a) the associated functions and levels of responsibility to be stated on the certificates and in  the endorsements are selected from and identical to those appearing in sections A-II/1, A-II/2,  A-II/3, A-II/4, A-III/1, A-III/2, A-III/3, A-III/4 and A-IV/2 of the STCW Code; (b) the candidates have completed approved education and training and meet the requirements for  standards of competence, prescribed in the relevant sections of the STCW Code and as set forth in  section A-VII/1 of that Code, for the functions and levels that are to be stated on the  certificates and in the endorsements; (c) the candidates have completed approved seagoing service appropriate to the performance of the  functions and levels that are to be stated on the certificate. The minimum duration of seagoing  service shall be equivalent to the duration of seagoing service prescribed in chapters II and III  of this Annex. However, the minimum duration of seagoing service shall be not less than as  prescribed in section A-VII/2 of the STCW Code; (d) the candidates for certification who are to perform the function of navigation at the  operational level shall meet the applicable requirements of the regulations in chapter IV, as  appropriate, for performing designated radio duties in accordance with the Radio Regulations; and (e) the certificates are issued in accordance with the requirements of Article 5e and the  provisions set forth in chapter VII of the STCW Code. 2. No certificate shall be issued under this chapter unless the Member State has communicated the  information required by the STCW Convention to the Commission. REGULATION VII/2 Certification of seafarers 1. Every seafarers who performs any function or group  of functions specified in tables A-II/1, A-II/2, A-II/3 or A-II/4 of chapter II or in tables  A-III/1, A-III/2, A-III/4 of chapter III or A-IV/2 of chapter IV of the STCW Code, shall hold an  appropriate certificate. REGULATION VII/3 Principles governing the issue of alternative certificates 1. A Member State  which elects to issue or authorize the issue of alternative certificates shall ensure that the  following principles are observed: (a) no alternative certification system shall be implemented unless it ensures a degree of safety  at sea and has a preventive effects as regards pollution at least equivalent to that provided by  the other chapters; and (b) any arrangement for alternative certification issued under this chapter shall provide for the  interchangeability of certificates with those issued under the other chapters. 2. The principle of interchangeability in paragraph 1 shall ensure that: (a) seafarers certificated under the arrangements of chapters II and/or III and those certificated  under chapter VII are able to serve on ships which have either traditional or other forms of  shipboard organization; and (b) seafarers are not trained for specific shipboard arrangements in such a way as would impair  their ability to take their skills elsewhere. 3. In issuing any certificate under the provisions of this chapter the following principles shall  be taken into account: (a) the issue of alternative certificates shall not be used in itself: - to reduce the number of crew on board, - to lower the integrity of the profession or 'de-skill` seafarers, or - to justify the assignment of the combined duties of the engine and deck watchkeeping officers to  a single certificate holder during any particular watch; and (b) the person in command shall be designated as the master; and the legal position and authority  of the master and others shall not be adversely affected by the implementation of any arrangement  for alternative certification. 4. The principles contained in paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Regulation shall ensure that the  competency of both deck and engineer officers is maintained. CHAPTER VIII WATCHKEEPING REGULATION VIII/1 Watchkeeping arrangements and principles to be  observed 1. Administrations shall direct the attention of companies, masters, chief engineer  officers and all watchkeeping personnel to the requirements, principles and guidance set out in the  STCW Code which shall be observed to ensure that a safe continuous watch or watches appropriate to  the prevailing circumstances and conditions are maintained in all seagoing ships at all times. 2. Administrations shall require the master of every ship to ensure that watchkeeping arrangements  are adequate for maintaining a safe watch or watches, taking into account the prevailing  circumstances and conditions and that, under the master's general direction: (a) officers in charge of the navigational watch are responsible for navigating the ship safely  during their periods of duty, when they shall be physically present on the navigating bridge or in  a directly associated location such as the chart room or bridge control room at all times; (b) radio operators are responsible for maintaining a continuous radio watch on appropriate  frequencies during their periods of duty; (c) officers in charge of an engineering watch, as defined in the STCW Code and under the direction  of the chief engineer officer, shall be immediately available and on call to attend the machinery  spaces and, when required, shall be physically present in the machinery space during their periods  of responsibility; and (d) an appropriate and effective watch or watches are maintained for the purpose of safety at all  times, while the ship is at anchor or moored and, if the ship is carrying hazardous cargo, the  organization of such watch or watches takes full account of the nature, quantity, packing and  stowage of the hazardous cargo and of any special conditions prevailing on board, afloat or  ashore.(1) Date of entry into force of this Directive.