IMO Recommends Practical Approach to STCW Amendments
Due to the high number of applications for the STCW 2010 Manila amendments, the IMO have issued MSC.1/Circ.1560 on the 5th December 2016.
The amendments are aimed at ensuring that certification is authentic and not fraudulent which requires various checks to be undertaken and a database of all issued endorsements to be maintained by flag.
The IMO urges all parties including those issuing the certificates to ensure all seafarers have their required certificates and endorsements by the 1st January 2017.
However, it recognises that Port State Control inspectors could find that some seafarers on board vessels may not yet hold the required certification and endorsements.
In this case it recommends that they use a pragmatic and practical approach until 1st July 2017.
Port State Control Inspectors should also ensure that the flag state, ship owners, and the individual seafarer are informed of the issue when found.
The documentary evidence required by seafarers to show compliance 2010 Manila amendments includes:
• Revalidation of safety certification for example CPSC, Fire Fighting and Sea Survival.
• Vessel specific training.
• Training specific to rank.
• Flag State issued endorsements for each seafarer.
The endorsement by flag state shows that the seafarer’s certificate of competency is in accordance with the new STCW requirements.