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STCW A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS Taking into account the 2010 Manila amendments - PDF
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1 STCW A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS Taking into account the 2010 Manila amendments INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT WORKERS FEDERATION
2 Foreword In June 2010 a diplomatic conference in Manila adopted a set of far-reaching and comprehensive amendments to the 1978 International Convention on Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers known to us all more conveniently as the STCW Convention and its associated Code. This instrument has been described as one for the four pillars of the global maritime regulatory system, along with two other IMO Conventions, SOLAS and MARPOL, and ILO s Maritime Labour Convention. The amendments adopted mark the first major revision of the instrument since those adopted in 1995, which completely revised the original 1978 STCW Convention. The shipping industry depends on competent, well-trained seafarers to ensure safety of life at sea, maritime security, efficiency of navigation and protection and preservation of the marine environment. The revised STCW Convention aims to provide the international standards necessary for training institutes and trainers to develop the much-needed skills and competencies for today s seafarer. The ITF has produced this guidance to help seafarers understand the revisions and locate the information that is of most relevance to them. I support this effort to make the Convention requirements accessible to all and trust that this guide will support the achievement of the objectives of the STCW Convention and Code. Koji Sekimizu Secretary-General, IMO STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 3
3 Contents About this guide 7 Section 1: The STCW Convention 11 Layout of the convention 12 Deadlines to meet 13 Glossary of terms 14 Additional definitions and requirements of the amended STCW Convention 16 Section 2: Certification requirements 17 Part 1 STCW certificates Certificates 18 Certification paths 22 General requirements for officers 24 General requirements for ratings 26 Part 2 Certificates and general requirements by rank Master 29 Chief mate 30 Officer in charge of a navigational watch 31 Ratings forming part of a navigational watch 33 Able seafarer deck 34 Radio operators 35 Chief engineer 36 Second engineer 37 Officer in charge of an engineering watch 38 Electro-technical officer 39 Ratings forming part of an engineering watch 40 Able seafarer engine 41 Electro-technical ratings 42 Any other crew member 43 Part 3 Other certificates For personnel on any type of ship Additional non mandatory training 44 For personnel on tankers 46 For personnel on passenger ships 47 Part 4 Training issues Education and training issues 48 Simulator training under STCW 49 English language requirements 49 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 5
4 The use of distance learning and e-learning 49 Onboard training and assessment 49 Responsibilities of companies 50 Implementation of the ISM code relevant to STCW 50 GMDSS (global maritime distress and safety system) certificates 50 Medical fitness standards 51 Section 3: On board requirements 54 Certificates and documentary evidence to be carried on board 54 Mandatory safety and ship-board familiarisation training 56 On-board training and assessment 58 Seagoing service 59 Alcohol and drug consumption 60 Control provisions 61 Penalties 63 Regulations affecting watch-keeping personnel duty 64 Section 4: Implications of amendments to STCW holders 67 Upgrading and revalidation 68 Additional competence requirements under 2010 STCW 69 Master and deck department 69 Engine department 70 Section 5: Where to find more information on STCW 74 Annex A List of countries party to STCW 75 Annex B IMO circular (STCW.7/circ.17) on guidance for port state 76 control inspectors in respect of certificates of competence issued under the provisions of the STCW Convention Annex C Summary of requirements 78 6 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
5 About this guide This guide is aimed at seafarers of all ranks and nationalities. Its main purpose is to help you find out how the 2010 Manila amendments to the STCW will affect you. Although we have tried to make this guide as accurate as possible, you should contact the maritime Administration issuing your certificate(s) of competency and endorsement(s) for specific information on the national requirements and deadlines you must meet. Section 1 gives background information on the amended STCW Convention, including deadlines to meet, and provides a brief glossary of terms. Section 2 outlines the certificates you need to hold before signing on a ship in order to ensure that you comply with the amended STCW. This section consists of four parts. Part 1 tells you about STCW certificates, certification paths and general requirements for officers and ratings. Part 2 lists the certificates and general requirements demanded according to rank. Part 3 tells you what certificates you need, depending on your function on board and the type of vessel you are working on. Part 4 gives guidance on training establishments, simulator requirements, English language and GMDSS certificates. Section 3 deals with the requirements you need to meet once you are on board. This includes what documentation you must have with you at all times, ship-specific familiarisation training, training records and sea-going service. It also covers the regulations on alcohol and drug consumption, control procedures and penalties. There is also a section applying to watch-keeping personnel only, officers and ratings, on rest hour regulations and watch-keeping guidelines. Section 4 tells you what you need to do to if you are a holder of an STCW-95 certificate and need to update your certificate to 2010 amended STCW. This section includes tables that summarise by rank the additional competencies you need to demonstrate to upgrade your certificate. Finally, Section 5 lists other sources of information you can consult should you want to know more about the 2010 amended STCW. This guide is produced by the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF). You can also download a free version from our website at STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 7
6 8 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
7 Section 1: STCW Convention
8 10 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
9 The STCW Convention The key to maintaining a safe shipping environment and keeping our oceans clean lies in all seafarers across the world observing high standards of competence and professionalism in the duties they perform on-board. The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers 1978, as amended in 1995 and again in 2010, sets those standards, governs the award of certificates and controls watchkeeping arrangements. Its provisions not only apply to seafarers, but also to ship-owners, training establishments and national maritime administrations. The convention was adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 1978 and came into force in During the late 1980s, it was clear that STCW-78 was not achieving its aim of raising professional standards worldwide, and so IMO members decided to amend it. This was done in the early 1990s, and the amended convention was then called STCW-95. The 2010 Manila amendments was intended to include all agreed changes since 1995, address new technology, inconsistencies, interpretations and outdated provisions. There was particular emphasis on improving control and communication provisions of certification in Chapter 1 and addressing the specific requirements of offshore and short sea shipping. There was also an overall commitment to harmonise the amended STCW Convention, where practical, with the provisions of the 2006 ILO Maritime Labour Convention Whereas the STCW-78 Convention focused almost entirely on knowledge, the emphasis of STCW-95 has been shifted to practical skills and competence underpinned by theoretical knowledge. The 2010 amendments continued to emphasise competence rather than sea service or period of training. The standard set by the convention applies to seafarers of all ranks serving on sea-going merchant ships registered under the flag of a country party to the convention. The term seagoing ships includes all commercial vessels engaged on domestic or international voyages. The STCW Convention does not apply to seafarers serving on warships, naval auxiliaries or any other government owned or operated ship engaged in non-commercial service; fishing vessels (there is a separate convention covering personnel on fishing vessels); pleasure yachts not engaged in trade and wooden ships of primitive build. The STCW (95) Convention has already been accepted by all major labour suppliers and shipping registries. This is more than 98 per cent of the world s merchant fleet. At the end of this guide you will find a list of all countries that are parties to the current convention and the dates of acceptance but does not indicate those who are implementing fully the 2010 amendments. Governments must submit reports on their compliance to the IMO by 1 January STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 11
10 Layout of the convention The STCW Convention is a book consisting of three sections. 1. The articles: outline the legal responsibilities a party has to meet. 2. The annex: gives technical details on how the legal responsibilities referred to in the articles should be met. 3. The STCW Code: specifies in more depth the technical details contained in the annex. It contains part A and part B. Part A: Mandatory standards of training, certification and watch-keeping. Part B: Recommended guidelines (not mandatory) on training, certification and watch-keeping. The regulations in the annex should be read in conjunction with the relevant section of the STCW Code (part A). It is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the convention. After all, the standards of competence that you are expected to meet are specified there. A copy of the STCW Convention is normally kept on board all sea-going merchant ships. 12 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
11 Deadlines to meet The 2010-amended STCW Convention came into force on 1 January However, there is a five year transitional period, until 1 January 2017, to allow for a phased in implementation of the provisions. After January 2017, all seafarers are required to meet STCW 2010 standards. The three important dates to remember are: 1 January 2012 The STCW Convention comes into force for all countries party to the convention. From 1 January 2012 onwards, requirements for the new minimum rest hours and a record of hours of work must be complied with. For a period of five years, until 1 February 2017, on a national basis the different revised regulations contained in the 2010-amended convention will be phased in. During this five year transitional period, a party may continue to issue certificates of competency in accordance with its previous practices, however from 1 July 2013 new seafarers-training and competence should comply with the 2010-amended STCW Convention. 1 January 2014 After 1 January 2014 seafarers will have to be trained in security in compliance with the new provisions. 1 January 2017 The implementation period ends. From February 2017 onwards all seafarers on active service must comply with all the 2010-amended STCW requirements and be in possession of a valid STCW certificate covering the functions performed on-board. Administrations will also issue and recognise and endorse certificates in accordance with the STCW provisions prior to 2010 for those commencing training prior to 1 July STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 13
12 Glossary of terms You need to know the meaning of some basic terms that will be used in this guide: Administration: The government of the Party (country) whose flag a ship is entitled to fly. An administration deals, among other things, with regulating the training, education and certification of seafarers in accordance with the requirements of the convention. Approved: This means that a national maritime administration has approved a training programme or seagoing service because it meets the requirements of the amended STCW Convention. Function: This is a way of classifying shipboard tasks by functions and levels of responsibility. There are seven functional areas, at three different levels of responsibility. The levels of responsibility are: management level (applies to senior officers); operational level (applies to junior officers); and support level (applies to ratings forming part of a navigational or engine watch). The following table lists the different functions and levels of responsibility at which the functions can be carried out. FUNCTION LEVEL OF RESPONSIBILITY Management Operational Support Deck Navigation u u u Cargo handling and stowage u Deck & Controlling the operation u u Engine of a ship and care for persons on board Engine Marine engineering u u u Maintenance and repair u u Electrical, electronics u u and control engineering Radio Radio communication u Party: A country where the STCW Convention has entered into force. A party is under the obligation to implement the standards contained in the convention. Seagoing service: Service on board a ship relevant to the issue of a certificate or other qualification. For example, one of the requirements to qualify as a rating forming part of a navigational watch is to have approved seagoing service, including not less than six months training and experience. 14 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
13 Seagoing ship: A ship navigating in areas not close to inland or sheltered waters or where port regulations apply. Standard of competence: This term refers to the minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency that seafarers must demonstrate to gain certification. The tables contained in part A of the STCW Code specify the standards of competence to be achieved by the seafarer. The thinking behind dividing all duties on board into competencies, functions, and levels of responsibility is that certificates should be awarded on the basis of the specific duties the seafarer carries out on-board rather than on ship departmental divisions (deck/engine). For the complete tables and full details of standards of competence applying to the certificates you hold, refer to the STCW Code (part A) in the 2010-amended STCW Convention. The 2010 amendments only refer to the following certifications: Certificate of competence: A certificate issued and endorsed by the administration, for masters, officer and GMDSS radio operators in accordance with the provisions of chapters II, III, IV or VII and entitles the lawful holder thereof to serve in the capacity and perform the functions involved at the level of responsibility specified. Certificate of proficiency: A certificate, other than a certificate of competency issued to a seafarer, stating that the relevant requirements of training, competencies or seagoing service in the convention have been met. Documentary evidence: Documentation, other than a certification of competency or certificate of proficiency used to establish that the relevant requirements of the convention have been met. STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 15
14 Additional definitions and requirements of the amended STCW Convention Ship security officer means the person on-board the ship, accountable to the master, designated by the company as responsible for the security of the ship, including implementation and maintenance of the ship security plan and liaison with the company security officer and port facility security officers; Note: the designation of a ship security officer is mandatory. Security duties include all tasks and duties on-board ships as defined by chapter XI-2 of SOLAS and the ISPS code. Electro-technical officer means an officer qualified in accordance with the provisions of regulation III/6 of the convention. Electro-technical rating means a rating qualified in accordance with the provisions of regulation III/7 of the convention. Note: these positions are not a manning requirement or prohibit other positions of other electrical roles onboard Able seafarer deck means a rating qualified in accordance with the provisions of regulation II/5 of the convention. Able seafarer engine means a rating qualified with the provisions of regulation III/5 of the convention. Note: The qualification for able seafarer, previously covered under ILO convention (74) has been transferred to the IMO. National administrations should make provision for the acceptance and endorsement of current holders of an AB certificate. The AB seafarer engine is a new qualification and, under section A VII/2.3 and 4, there are new provisions for an integrated rating covering both deck and engine duties. These positions are not mandatory under the safe manning requirements unless required by the administration. 16 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
15 Section 2: Certification requirements
16 PART 1 STCW certificates Certificates The term certificates covers all official documents required under STCW. It includes certificates of competence, endorsements, certificates of proficiency, and any documentary evidence showing that a requirement of the convention has been met. Certificates are important as they are the main paper evidence you have on hand to prove that your level of maritime education and training, your length of service at sea, your professional competence, medical fitness and age all comply with STCW standards. Every party to the convention has to ensure that certificates are only issued to those seafarers who meet STCW standards. Certificate of competence: This document is issued to masters, officers, radio operators and ratings forming part of a watch who meet the standards of competence relevant to their particular functions and level of responsibility on-board. The table below indicates the title of the certificates under STCW and the various limitations and tonnage thresholds that apply. CAPACITY AREA LIMITATION TONNAGE LIMITATION Master Near Coastal Less than 500gt None Less than 3,000 gt None None Chief Mate None Less than 3,000 gt None None Officer in charge Near coastal Less than 500 gt of navigational watch (OOW) None None Rating forming part of a navigational watch None None Radio operator GMDSS (GOC/ROC) None CAPACITY AREA LIMITATION PROPULSION POWER LIMITATION Chief engineer None 750 kw to 3,000 kw None 3,000kw or more Near Coastal 750 kw to 3,000 kw Near Coastal 3,000 kw or more Second engineer None 750 kw to 3,000 kw None 3,000 kw or more Near coastal 750 kw to 3,000 kw Near Coastal 3,000 kw or more Officer in charge None 750 kw or more of engineering watch (OOW) Near Coastal Less than 3,000kw Rating forming part of a engineering watch None None 18 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
17 Endorsement: A document issued to masters and officers, either as part of the certificate or as a separate document. This attests (endorses) that the national certificate has been issued in accordance with all STCW requirements. However, due to the ongoing problem with fraudulently issued certificates, the amended 2010 STCW Convention has made substantial changes in regulation I/2 to tighten up on the endorsement process. It is now required that all endorsements are only issued by the administration after fully verifying the authenticity of any certificates and documentary evidence, and the candidate has fulfilled all requirements and has the standard of competence for the capacity identified in the endorsement. There is also a requirement to ensure there is proper approval of the equivalent seagoing service and training and also to maintain a database of certification registration with a controlled electronic access. Endorsement of recognition: This endorsement certificate is issued by an administration as an official recognition of the validity of a certificate issued by another administration. This procedure is necessary as many merchant fleets are manned by seafarers certificated by other administrations. In other words, if you hold a certificate from country x, but you are serving on a ship registered in country y, then you need to apply to the maritime administration of country y for a certificate authorising you to serve on ships registered under its flag. Under the 2010-amended STCW Convention regulation I/2 all seafarers serving on foreign ships must obtain an endorsement. To obtain an endorsement of recognition, you will need to submit the original of your national certificate of competence to the representative of the issuing administration. You cannot apply for an endorsement on the basis of another endorsement. administrations will also require proof of identity. In most cases you will have to pay a processing fee that will vary depending on the type of certificate being endorsed and the charges set by different administrations. If you are employed, the employer (shipowner or manning agent) will normally take care of all the necessary paperwork and fees. Even though it is not a requirement of the convention, there are a number of administrations that are now requiring a letter of employment as part of the documentation necessary to process an application for an endorsement of recognition. The way to submit your documentation varies from administration to administration particularly under the revised requirements, and while some may still accept a postal application and copies of the documents, it is more likely they will insist that the seafarer appears in person with all the original documentation. These face-to-face applications are processed before a representative of the administration at a designated office (if overseas, this is normally held at the consulate of the country s administration). An STCW endorsement of recognition can only be issued by an administration provided that the certificate being recognised was issued in accordance with STCW requirements and the original certificate presented is genuine. To verify that the certificate in question has been issued in accordance with all requirements of the convention, an administration should inspect the training facilities and certification procedures of another administration. STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 19
18 To verify that the certificate is genuine, the documents that you submit to a foreign administration will be checked for authenticity and the new requirement for the maintenance of a database may aid this process. This will include a visual check to verify security features in the certificate. Its number and details may also be crosschecked with the issuing administration. This process may take time, so the administration will issue a letter stating that your application is being processed. By producing this letter you are able to serve on board a ship registered under the administration processing your application for a maximum period of three months. Masters, chief mates, chief engineers or second engineers applying for an endorsement of recognition are also required to demonstrate knowledge of the maritime legislation of the flag state issuing the endorsement. Certificates of proficiency: These are documents issued to the seafarer to certify that he or she has met the required standard of competence in a specific duty. These certificates include certificates for personnel serving on certain types of ship (tankers, and passenger ships) and for those assigned with safety, security and pollution prevention duties. It certifies that the holder meets STCW standards of competence in specific functions related to safety, care of persons, or cargo. Documentary evidence: This is a document which is not necessarily issued or recognised by the administration (and is not, therefore, called a certificate). Documents issued by the shipowner or master of the vessel to attest that the seafarer has participated in a safety drill or has completed some type of training (for example familiarisation training) are examples of documentary evidence. It is important to keep these documents since they are one of the accepted ways of demonstrating that you have achieved proficiency in a given task (basic safety training, for example). Where such evidence is not available of on-board training and experience you will be required to undergo a five yearly refresher course in personal survival and fire prevention and fire fighting. Whilst the security officer will require a certificate of proficiency, security familiarisation and security awareness are ship specific requirements that will require the seafarer to have documentary evidence. As is the case with the seafarer with designated security duties, it is the company s or security officers responsibility to ensure crew are trained to the minimum standard within the amended convention and have the appropriate documentary evidence. Under the STCW Convention, all seafarers need to meet minimum standards of competence, age, medical fitness, and approved sea-going service. These standards are set by each national administration, but as a minimum, they should reflect STCW standards. The certificates you are required to hold depend on your rank, responsibilities you are assigned on board, and the type of vessel you are serving on. For example, if you are watch-keeping officer working on-board a chemical tanker, and your duties include being crew of a fast rescue boat, then you will need to hold certificates covering all these aspects. The same applies to a rating serving on passenger ships with designated safety duties or to a barman working on a passenger ship who is designated to assist passengers in emergencies. 20 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
19 Before you join a ship, make sure you have all the valid certificates you need to cover the functions you will be performing on board. This documentary evidence is proof of your competence and will be subject to inspection by the master, flag state and port state inspectors. To obtain an STCW certificate you first need to successfully complete a training programme approved by the issuing administration or to complete a period of approved seagoing service. For most certificates you will need a combination of both. Some of the training can be provided at sea, but for more specialised and longer courses you will need to attend a period of shore-based instruction. Certificates are issued once you are able to prove your competence in and knowledge of the tasks covered by your certificate to the standards required. The requirements to upgrade to a certificate compliant with the 2010 STCW Convention will vary and are outlined in section 4 of this guide. STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 21
20 Certification paths There are two different ways of gaining your STCW certificates. Whichever path you choose, the standards are identical. The difference lies in the number of functions you will be able to perform on-board and this is reflected in the certificate awarded. 1. The traditional method: STCW certificates awarded in the traditional way are classified according to which department of the ship (deck or engine) you work in. Most seafarers around the world have been awarded their certificates in this way. Under this method you will probably work in the same department (deck or engine) throughout your entire seafaring career. The change introduced by STCW in this path is that in order to qualify for a specific certificate, say watch-keeping officer in charge of a navigational watch, you will need to be competent in the specific functions stated for that level of responsibility. There is a general decreasing emphasis on the sea-time requirement to gain the required competence. Under the STCW-78 convention, seafarers were also allowed to qualify for a certificate on the basis of sea-going service alone (ratings qualifying as watch-keeping officers, for example). This is no longer possible under STCW provisions, as all seafarers are now required to complete a minimum approved sea-going service and to have completed an approved education and training programme before they are eligible for the next higher certificates of competence. The introduction of the able seafarer deck and the able seafarer engine into the STCW Convention under the 2010 amendments involved substantial reductions in sea-time from the requirements of ILO convention 74. At the same time the competency tables were revised to reflect modern ship requirements and the demands of today s vessels. Administrations should recognise ILO certification and provide for a transition to the new certification. 2. The alternative method: This refers to STCW certificates issued to enable the holder to perform different functions that are not necessarily within the same department. The certificate awarded will specify the functions and the level of responsibility. A candidate for alternative certification will need to qualify in all these functions at a determined level of responsibility in one department (deck or engine) before being able to qualify for other functions (at the same level of responsibility) in a different department. For example, a watch-keeping officer applying for an alternative certificate will have to qualify in all the functions of a watch-keeping officer, either in the deck or the engine department, before he or she can qualify for additional functions at the same level in other departments. Standards of competence, age and medical fitness are the same as for the traditional method. The purpose of the alternative certification is to allow for shipboard organisation to be in line with modern technological developments and to open up a new career path for seafarers. Under the convention, shipowners are not allowed to use alternative certification as a means of reducing the number of crew members on board and increasing everybody else s workload, or to undermine the integrity of the profession by assigning combined 22 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
21 deck and engine room watch-keeping duties to a single certificate holder during a watch. Alternative certification is still optional for all parties to the convention. To date, very few parties have elected to issue certificates in this way. The amended 2010 STCW Convention introduced qualifications for an integrated rating with a number of options in how this can be achieved. However, the above criteria should apply, and the introduction of integrated ratings on vessels is not intended to reduce crew numbers. STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 23
22 General requirements for officers If you are an officer, you must meet minimum requirements in respect of standards of competence, seagoing service time, medical fitness and age. You should be in possession of a valid certificate of competence according to your rank and functions on-board. This certificate should be endorsed (in the same certificate or in a separate document) by the issuing administration. You should also have all the ancillary certificates required such as radar or ARPA, GMDSS, and those referring to safety duties on-board specific types of ships. Part 2 and part 3 of this section will give you guidance as to what certificates officers require. To know the exact requirements and standards of competence for each certificate you should consult chapters II (master and deck department), III (engine department), IV (radio personnel), V (training requirements for personnel on certain types of ships), VI (emergency, occupational safety, medical care and survival functions) of the STCW Convention. These chapters should be read in conjunction with the respective section of part A of the STCW Code. Revalidation requirements for officers: Certificates for masters, officers and radio operators must be endorsed by the issuing administration and re-validated at intervals not exceeding five years. Certificates issued under STCW standards should be upgraded to the 2010-amended STCW standards before January 2017 (see section 4). Other certificates for specialised training are subject to refresher training (see part 2 in this section). Officers serving on ships registered under a foreign flag: If you intend to serve on ships registered under the flag of a foreign country, then you need an endorsement of recognition issued by the administration of that country. Some administrations may also require an endorsement of recognition for specialised training certificates. In some instances, administrations from other countries will only recognise training which has been completed at specific training establishments in your country of origin. If in doubt, ask the foreign administration if it has any requirements in this respect. Going for the next higher certificate: If you eventually want to opt for the next higher certificate you will need to meet a number of requirements, including approved training and education, minimum age, approved seagoing service and medical fitness. Officers' duties on joining any ship: All officers need to complete a period of ship-specific and security familiarisation training before being assigned any shipboard functions. There is no certificate awarded for this, but a record of the training should be kept in the ship s official logbook. This requirement applies to any member of the crew, including hotel staff holding officer rank in passenger ships. 24 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
23 Basic safety training for officers: Officers serving on any type of ship who are designated with safety and pollution prevention responsibilities in the operation of the ship need basic safety training. Such training must cover personal survival techniques, basic fire prevention and fire fighting, elementary first aid, and personal and social responsibilities. This requirement applies to practically all officers serving on merchant ships. Cadets assigned with these duties also need to complete basic safety training before going to sea. Basic safety training should be documented as having taken place within five years of the officers being assigned to safety and pollution prevention duties. You need to complete an approved training course or provide evidence that you have achieved the required standards of competence within the previous five years (by participating in drills and exercises, for example, or assessment by a qualified assessor). It is advisable that you do hold some form of documentary evidence to show that you have achieved competence in these functions within the previous five years (this may be in the form of record of drills or letters from a training centre). New requirements of the amended 2010 STCW All ships must have a qualified security officer delegated by the company and master of the ship, who is responsible for ensuring that the other crew are familiarised and trained in security matters for that vessel. The revised convention has introduced bridge resource management and engine resource management requirements for senior officers and leadership and management skills within their certificate. Companies should be responsible for providing training in these areas where seafarers do not have appropriate training. Where the company requires to carry an electro-technical officer they should comply with the new competency requirements under A-III/6. STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 25
24 General requirements for ratings Ratings fall under three general categories; those forming part of a watch (deck or engine), those who are not assigned watch-keeping duties, and those undergoing training. As a rating you are required to meet minimum standards of medical fitness, minimum age (if designated with watch-keeping duties), competence (if designated with watch-keeping duties), and seagoing service time (if designated with watchkeeping duties). Ratings who are not assigned watch-keeping duties or those still undergoing training are not required to hold watch-keeping certificates. All other certification requirements for ratings depend on the functions performed on board. Part 2 and part 3 of this section will give you guidance as to what certificates you require, depending on the function you perform and the type of ship you are serving on. If you want to know the exact standards of competence you should meet, consult chapters II (master and deck department), III (engine department), IV (radio personnel), V (training requirements for personnel on certain types of ships), VI (emergency, occupational safety, medical care and survival functions) of the STCW Convention. These chapters should be read in conjunction with the respective section of part A of the STCW Code. Ratings assigned watch-keeping duties Ratings forming part of a watch (deck or engine) need to be specifically certified for this function. If you are part of a navigational watch, you need to hold a certificate known as rating forming part of a navigational watch certificate. On the other hand, if you are part of an engineering watch, you will need to hold a certificate known as rating forming part of an engineering watch certificate. To obtain these certificates you need to show that you are competent in the functions set out in the following paragraphs. You can find the complete version of these in the STCW Convention under section A-II/4 for deck personnel and A-III/4 for engine personnel. Seafarers who have the appropriate competencies to become able seafarer deck or able seafarer engine under the new provisions II/5 and III/5 must first have become proficient watchkeepers. However if you served for a period of not less than one year as a rating in the relevant capacity before the convention came into force for the administration issuing your certificate then you may be considered to meet the competence requirements and will be certified accordingly, without needing to undergo any further training. The above may also apply to integrated ratings under the new provisions of VII/2.4. Ratings forming part of a navigational watch You should meet the competence requirements stated below. These do not apply to ratings on ships of below 500 gross tonnages. You must be able to: 1. Steer the ship and comply with helm orders issued in English (covers the use of magnetic and gyro compasses, helm orders, change over from automatic pilot to hand steering device and vice-versa). 2. Keep a proper look-out by sight and hearing (covers the responsibilities of a look-out including reporting the approximate bearing of a sound signal, light or other object in degrees or points). 26 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
25 3. Contribute to monitoring and controlling a safe watch (covers shipboard terms and definitions, use of internal communication and alarm systems, have the ability to understand orders and to communicate with the officer of the watch in matters relevant to watch-keeping duties, be familiar with the procedures for the relief, maintenance and hand-over of a watch, the information required to maintain a safe watch and basic environmental protection procedures). 4. Operate emergency equipment and apply emergency procedures (covers knowledge of emergency duties and alarm signals, knowledge of pyrotechnic distress signals, satellite EPIRB s and SARTS, avoidance of false distress alerts and action to be taken in the event of accidental activation). Ratings forming part of engineering watch If you are part of an engineering watch you should meet the competence requirements stated below. The requirements are the same as for STCW-95. They do not apply to ratings on ships of below 750kW in propulsion power. You need to be able to: 1. Carry out a watch routine appropriate to the duties of a rating forming part of an engine room watch, and communicate effectively in matters related to watch-keeping duties (covers terms used in machinery spaces and the names of machinery and equipment, engine-room watch-keeping procedures, safe working practices in engine-room operations, basic environmental protection procedures, use of internal communications systems, engine room alarm systems, and ability to distinguish between the various alarms with special reference to fire extinguishing gas alarms). 2. Keep a boiler watch and maintain the correct water level and steam pressure (covers safe operation of boilers). 3. Operate emergency equipment and apply emergency procedures (covers knowledge of emergency duties, escape routes from machinery spaces, familiarity with the location and the use of fire fighting equipment in machinery areas). Revalidation requirements for ratings Certificates for ratings forming part of a watch are not subject to revalidation. Other certificates are subject to refresher training (see part 2 in this Section). Ratings serving on ships registered under a foreign flag Under the convention, certificated watch-keeping ratings are not required to have an endorsement of recognition when serving on ships registered under the flag of another country. However, the administrations of some foreign countries require and issue endorsements for ratings forming part of a watch and other certificates relating to specific functions (tanker training, for example). Ask your employer (shipowner or manning agent), or the respective administration directly to find out whether you need to obtain an endorsement of recognition. In some cases, an endorsement of recognition for a specialised certificate will only be issued if the training has been completed at a training centre approved by the administration of the foreign country. Again, if in doubt, ask the administration for any requirements in this respect. STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 27
26 Going for the next higher certificate Progression through the ranks, particularly from rating to officer, is possible under STCW. However, you will need to complete approved seagoing service and complete an approved programme of training. Under the 2010 STCW Convention the requirement for training books is extended to the able seafarer deck or engine. Under the old system it was possible to progress through the ranks based on seagoing service time only but this is no longer applicable. Ratings' duties on joining any ship All ratings need to complete a period of ship-specific familiarisation training, including security before being assigned any shipboard functions. There is no certificate awarded for this, but a record should be kept of it in the ship s official logbook. This requirement applies to any member of the crew, including hotel staff in passenger ships. Basic safety training for ratings Ratings serving on any type of ship who are designated with safety, security and pollution prevention responsibilities in the operation of the ship need basic safety training. This covers personal survival techniques, basic fire prevention and fire fighting, elementary first aid, and personal and social responsibilities. This requirement applies to practically all ratings serving on merchant ships as well as to ratings undergoing training. Basic safety training should be documented as having taken place within five years of a rating s being assigned to safety and pollution prevention duties. You need to complete an approved training course or provide evidence that you have attained the required standards of competence within the previous five years (by participating in drills and exercises, for example, or assessment by a qualified assessor). There is no requirement for seafarers to hold an official certificate of basic training, but it is advisable that you possess some form of documentary evidence to show that you have attained competence in these functions within the previous five years (record of drills or letters from a training centre). 28 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
27 PART 2 Certificates and general requirements by rank Master NAME OF CERTIFICATE REVALIDATION REG. National certificate of competence and endorsement Yes I/2, II/2, C/R Flag state endorsement of recognition Yes I/10 E/R GMDSS endorsement Yes IV/2 C/R Basic safety training Achieved within VI/1 D/P Personal survival techniques previous five years Fire prevention and fire fighting Elementary first aid Personal safety and social responsibility Medical first aid No VI/4 D/P Survival craft and rescue boats Yes VI/2 D/P Advanced fire fighting Yes VI/3 D/P Medical fitness Yes I/9 C/R Basic safety familiarisation On assignment VI/1 T/O Ship specific familiarisation On assignment I/14 T/O Security familiarisation On assignment VI/6 T/O C/R certificate required. D/P Documentary proof. T/O Training onboard. E/R Endorsement required. General requirements to obtain a certificate of competency as master Masters on ships of 3,000 gross tonnage or more must: a) Previous certificate & seagoing service: meet requirements for certification as an officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more and have at least 36 months approved seagoing service 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. b) Education & Training: have completed a period of approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in section A-II/2 of the STCW Code for masters on ships of 3,000 gross tonnage or more. Masters on ships of 500 3,000 gross tonnage must: a) Previous certificate & seagoing service: meet requirements for certification as an officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more and have at least 36 months approved seagoing service 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. STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 29
28 b) Education & training: have completed a period of approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in section A-II/2 of the STCW Code for masters on ships of between 500 and 3,000 gross tonnage. Note: The same requirements apply for masters on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage not engaged on near-coastal voyages. Masters on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage must: a) Age: be not less than 20 years of age. b) Seagoing service: have approved seagoing service of not less than 12 months as officer in charge of a navigational watch. c) Education & Training: have completed a period of 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 in near-coastal voyages. Chief mate NAME OF CERTIFICATE REVALIDATION REG. National certificate of competence and endorsement Yes I/2, II/2, C/R Flag state endorsement of recognition Yes I/10 E/R GMDSS endorsement Yes IV/2 C/R Basic safety training Achieved within VI/1 D/P Personal survival techniques previous five Fire prevention and fire fighting years Elementary first aid Personal safety and social responsibility Medical first aid No VI/4 D/P Survival craft and rescue boats Yes VI/2 D/P Advanced fire fighting Yes VI/3 D/P Medical fitness Yes I/9 C/R Basic safety familiarisation On assignment VI/1 T/O Ship specific familiarisation On assignment I/14 T/O Security familiarisation On assignment VI/6 T/O C/R certificate required. D/P Documentary proof. T/O Training onboard. E/R Endorsement required. General requirements to obtain a certificate of competency as chief mate Chief mates on ships of 3,000 gross tonnage or more must: a) Previous certificate & seagoing service: meet requirements for certification as an officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more and have at least 12 months approved seagoing service in that capacity. 30 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
29 b) Education & training: 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. Chief mates on ships of 500 3,000 gross tonnage must: a) Education & training: have completed a period of 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 between 500 and 3,000 gross tonnage. Note: The master and chief mate competencies now include bridge resource management and require leadership, teamwork and management skills. Officer in charge of a navigational watch NAME OF CERTIFICATE REVALIDATION REG. National certificate of competence Yes I/2, II/1, C/R and endorsement II/3 Flag state endorsement of recognition Yes I/10 E/R GMDSS endorsement Yes IV/2 C/R Basic safety training Achieved within VI/1 D/P Personal survival techniques previous five Fire prevention and fire fighting years Elementary first aid Personal safety and social responsibility Medical first aid No VI/4 D/P Survival craft and rescue boats Yes VI/2 D/P Advanced fire fighting Yes VI/3 D/P Medical fitness Yes I/9 C/R Basic safety familiarisation On assignment VI/1 T/O Ship specific familiarisation On assignment I/14 T/O Security familiarisation On assignment VI/6 T/O C/R certificate required. D/P Documentary proof. T/O Training onboard. E/R Endorsement required. General requirements to obtain a certificate of competency as officer in charge of a navigational watch Officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more must: a) Age: be not less than 18 years of age. b) Seagoing service: have approved seagoing service of not less than one year as part of an approved training programme, including onboard training. This training must meet the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code and be documented in an approved training record book. Otherwise, the seafarer must have approved seagoing service of not less than 36 months. STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS 31
30 c) Bridge watch-keeping duties: have performed, during the required seagoing service, bridge watch-keeping duties under the supervision of the master or a qualified officer for a period of not less than six months. d) Radio duties: meet the applicable requirements of the regulations in chapter IV (GMDSS), as appropriate, for performing designated radio duties in accordance with the radio regulations. e) Education and Training: have completed a period of approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in section A-II/1 of the STCW Code. Officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage must: Ships not engaged on near-coastal voyages: a) Certificate: hold an appropriate certificate for ships of 500 gross tonnage or more. Ships engaged on near coastal voyages: a) Age: be not less than 18 years of age. b) Seagoing service: have completed special training, including an appropriate period of seagoing service as required by the administration, or approved seagoing service in the deck department of not less than 36 months. c) Radio duties: meet the applicable requirements of the regulations in chapter IV (GMDSS), as appropriate, for performing designated radio duties in accordance with the Radio Regulations. d) Education & training: have completed a period of 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 in near-coastal voyages. Note: All navigational officers must now have thorough knowledge of and ability to use ECDIS. 32 STCW: A GUIDE FOR SEAFARERS
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