MLC, STCW

1. With regards to minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship, as per MLC 2006,
write short notes on the following:-
a) Minimum age to work on a ship
b) Medical certification for duties on board.
c) Training and qualifications
d) Recruitment and placement

Answer –

Introduction to MLC 2006

 The MLC 2006 comes under the ILO and was formed under the 94th session of the ILO on
7th feb 2006.
 The MLC 2006 is enacted in the National Laws of India of Merchant Shipping Act namely
M.S Act section 2000
 The MLC Code consists of 16 Articles , The Regulations Under 5 Titles and the Code
 Regulations & Part A of the Code are the mandatory requirements for the member states
while part B is non mandatory and acts as a guideline for implementation for
Administrations.
 Each regulation has a Standard section for that particular Regulation and a corresponding
Guideline
For e.g : Title 1 Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship regulation 1.1 Min
Age has Standard A 1.1 and guideline B1.1. along with it the Purpose of the regulation is
also defined prior describing standard or guideline sections.
 This gives flexibility to the parties to the convention in implementing the Code while
accepting it in their national laws

Preamble Of this Convention States but not limited to:

 Desires to create a single coherent instrument covering all up to date standards of the
existing Maritime labour conventions as well as fundamental principles covered in other
conventions of the ILO pertaining to “ Min Age, Unemployment Indeminity, Placement,
Medical Examinations, Seaman’s Article Of Agreement, Repatriation, Officers COC, Food
& Catering, Paid Vacation, Ship-owners liability, Sickness insurance, Social security,
Wages Hours work and manning, prevention of accidents etc”
 To promote decent conditions of work standards for seafarers
 The Seafarers need for special protection considering their global nature of work
 The Purpose of this code is
- Lays Down firm set of Rights and Principles in its Articles and Regulations
 Allows flexibility as stated above in a way members implement the rights and principles
 Ensures through Title 5 that the rights and principles are complied with and enforced.

Title 1: Minimum Requirements for Seafarers to work on a ship are

This section has 4 regulations
Regulation 1.1: Minimum Age
 Purpose: To ensure that no under – age persons work on ships
 Min Age is 16 years
 Under 18 yrs of age night work is prohibited (night work as defined by national laws of a 9
hour period not later than midnight and before 5am) except when a competent authority
deems it otherwise if : (a) it impairs the training of the seafarer (b) if its a specific nature
of duty or recognized training programme after consulting with ship owner and seafarer
organizations that the nature of work will not affect the health and safety and well being
of the seafarer.
 Under 18 work prohibited if it jeopardizes their health, safety and the safety of the others
onboard.

Regulation 1.2: Medical Certification

- Purpose: to ensure that all seafarers are medically fit to perform their duties
 Seafarers cannot work on ship unless medically certified
 The certification shall not prejudice the ones stated in STCW
 The medical certificates shall state that ;
Hearing and sight and colour vision satisfactory
Not suffering from any medical condition likely to be aggravated at sea
 Certificate will be valid for min 2 years but 1 year is under 18.
 Colour vision certificate valid for 6 years
 If certificate expires onboard may be allowed to procure another at the next port but
sailing should not be more than 3 months.

Regulation 1.3: Training & Qualification

- Purpose : To ensure that seafarers are trained and qualified for their duties onboard
 Cannot work unless trained or certified and competent or qualified to perform their
duties
 Should successfully complete their training on personal safety

Regulation 1.4: Recruitment & Placement

- Purpose: To ensure that all seafarers have access to an efficient and well regulated
seafarers recruitment and placement services.
Conditions of Employment
This section has 8 regulations
Regulation 2.1: Seafarers Employment Agreement
To ensure that seafarers have a fair employment agreement
Regulation 2.2: Wages
Regulation 2.3: Hours of Work & Hours of Rest
Regulation 2.4: Entitlement to leave
Regulation 2.5: Repatriation
Regulation 2.6: Seafarers compensation for ships loss or foundering
Regulation 2.7: Manning Levels
Regulation 2.8: Career & Skill Development Opportunities for seafarers employment.

Compliance & Enforcement

This title has 3 Regulations

Regulation 5.1: Flag State Responsibilities
5.1.1-General Principles
5.1.2-Authorization of R.O
5.1.3-MLC & DMLC
5.1.4-inspection & enforcement
5.1.5-On-Board Compliance procedures
5.1.6-Marine Casualties

Regulation 5.2: Port State Responsibilities

5.2.1-Inspections In Port
5.2.2- Onshore seafarer complaint-handling procedure

Regulation 5.3: Labor-supplying responsibilities

2. Referring to the Maritime Labor conventions (MLC) 2006, discuss :-
a) Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship
b) Conditions of employment
c) Compliance and enforcement of the conventions.

Answer –
Introduction to MLC 2006
 The MLC 2006 comes under the ILO and was formed under the 94th session of the ILO on
7th feb 2006.
 The MLC 2006 is enacted in the National Laws of India of Merchant Shipping Act namely
M.S Act section 2000
 The MLC Code consists of 16 Articles , The Regulations Under 5 Titles and the Code
 Regulations & Part A of the Code are the mandatory requirements for the member states
while part B is non mandatory and acts as a guideline for implementation for
Administrations.
 Each regulation has a Standard section for that particular Regulation and a corresponding
Guideline

For e.g : Title 1 Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship regulation 1.1
Min Age has Standard A 1.1 and guideline B1.1. along with it the Purpose of the
regulation is also defined prior describing standard or guideline sections.
 This gives flexibility to the parties to the convention in implementing the Code while
accepting it in their national laws
Preamble Of this Convention States but not limited to:
 Desires to create a single coherent instrument covering all up to date standards of the
existing Maritime labour conventions as well as fundamental principles covered in other
conventions of the ILO pertaining to “ Min Age, Unemployment Indeminity, Placement,
Medical Examinations, Seaman’s Article Of Agreement, Repatriation, Officers COC, Food &
Catering, Paid Vacation, Ship-owners liability, Sickness insurance, Social security, Wages
Hours work and manning, prevention of accidents etc”
 To promote decent conditions of work standards for seafarers
 The Seafarers need for special protection considering their global nature of work

The Purpose of this code is

 Lays Down firm set of Rights and Principles in its Articles and Regulations
 Allows flexibility as stated above in a way members implement the rights and principles
 Ensures through Title 5 that the rights and principles are complied with and enforced.
Answer (a)

Title 1: Minimum Requirements for Seafarers to work on a ship are

This section has 4 regulations
Regulation 1.1: Minimum Age
 Purpose: To ensure that no under – age persons work on ships
 Min Age is 16 years
 Under 18 yrs of age night work is prohibited (night work as defined by national laws of a 9
hour period not later than midnight and before 5am) except when a competent authority
deems it otherwise if : (a) it inpairs the training of the seafarer (b) if its a specific nature
of duty or recognized training programme after consulting with shipowner and seafarer
orginasations that the nature of work will not affect the health and safety and well being
of the seafarer.
 Under 18 work prohibited if it jeapordizes their health , safety and the safety of the
others onboard.

Regulation 1.2: Medical Certification

 Purpose: to ensure that all seafarers are medically fit to perform their duties
 Seafarers cannot work on ship unless medically certified
 The certification shall not prejudice the ones stated in STCW
 The medical certificates shall state that ;
 Hearing and sight and colour vision satisfactory
 Not suffering form any medical condition likely to be aggravated at sea
 Certificate will be valid for min 2 years but 1 year is under 18.
 Colour vision certificate valid for 6 years
 If certificate expires onboard may be allowed to procure another at the next port but
sailing should not be more than 3 months.

Regulation 1.3: Training & Qualification

 Purpose : To ensure that seafarers are trained and qualified for their duties onboard
 Cannot work unless trained or certified and competent or qualified to perform their
duties
 Should successfully complete their training on personal safety

Regulation 1.4: Recruitment & Placement

 Purpose: To ensure that all seafarers have access to an efficient and well regulated
seafarers recruitment and placement services.
Ans (b).
Conditions of Employment
This section has 8 regulations
Regulation 2.1: Seafarers Employment Agreement
 Purpose: To ensure that seafarers have a fair employment agreement
Regulation 2.2: Wages
Regulation 2.3: Hours Of Work & Hours Of Rest
Regulation 2.4: Entitlement to leave
Regulation 2.5: Repatriation
Regulation 2.6: Seafarers compensation for ships loss or foundering
Regulation 2.7: Manning Levels
Regulation 2.8: Career & Skill Development Opportunities for seafarers employment.

Ans (c)
Compliance & Enforcement

This title has 3 Regulations

Regulation 5.1: Flag State Responsibilities
5.1.1-General Principles
5.1.2-Authorization of R.O
5.1.3-MLC & DMLC
5.1.4-inspection & enforcement
5.1.5-On-Board Compliance procedures
5.1.6-Marine Casualties

Regulation 5.2: Port State Responsibilities

5.2.1-Inspections In Port
5.2.2- Onshore seafarer complaint-handling procedure

Regulation 5.3: Labour-supplying responsibilities

3. Q
a) Discuss the rights and expectations of seafarers in relation to occupational safety as per
Maritime Labor Convention.
b) What are the potential problems that can happen due to differences in age, gender,
language, nationality and culture? What are the steps taken to reduce possible
discrimination?
Answer –

Under Title 4 Regulation 4.3 of MLC - Health and Safety protection and accident protection the
purpose is to ensure that seafarers’ work environment on board ships promotes occupational
safety and health and are directed towards flag state. Each member state shall:

1) Ensure all seafarers on board the ships of its flag are provided with occupational health
protection and hygienic living, working and training environment.
2) Make national guidelines for management of occupational safety and health on board in
consultation with ship-owners, seafarers organisations and regulations.
3) Adopt laws and regulations for addressing matters mentioned in code. Provisions for
Occupational accidents, injuries and diseases. National guidelines should carry out
assessment of risks and reduction of exposure on the following matters:
1. General and basic provisions.
2. Structural features of ship, including means of access.
3. Asbestos related risks.
4. Machinery.
5. Effects of extreme temperature of surfaces seafarers may be in contact with.
6. Effects of noise in workplace and accommodation.
7. Effects of vibration in workplace and accommodation.
8. Effects of ambient factors and tobacco smoke.
9. Special safety measures on and below deck.
10. Loading and unloading equipment.
11. Fire precaution and firefighting.
12. Anchors, chains and lines.
13. Dangerous cargo and ballast.
14. PPE for seafarers.
15. Work in enclosed spaces.
16. Physical and mental effects of fatigue.
17. Effects of drug and alcohol dependency.
18. HIV/AIDS protection and prevention.
19. Emergency and accident response.

b) Potential problems that can occur are as follows:

 Intercultural co-operation, communication and language are the most important issues
that contribute to maritime safety among multinational crews. For this:
o More training in understanding the culture is required.
 o Better teaching of English language.
o Human relationships and social interactions need to be improved.
 When it comes to age, power distance and factors such as shame and respect for social
status may have a negative effect on work safety.
 Gender bias, such as masculinity brings weakness in relationships with other gender so
teamwork will be less.
 Some cases some provisions may be given to the other gender which may lead to groups
formation of benefitted and un-benefited.
 Language is one of the strongest elements in culture and leads to better communication.
Proper knowledge will cause fewer accidents. Use of common language (English) is better
than mother tongue as it prevents suspicions among multinational crews.
 The root cause for a no. of accidents among multinational crew where human factor is
involved are due to miscommunication, lack of social interaction, misconception, power
distance and wrong stereotyping. Team leaders should develop strategies to prevent the
above.
 Cultural shock can be caused by differences in language, relationships, routines, food etc.
and lead to anxiety and create constraints. To avoid this:
o Follow adaptation and adjustment.
o Understand other culture.
o Put down ego identity.
 Collective and individualistic culture: the latter tend to emphasize on the success of
individual people, are outspoken and tend to impose on others. The former keep group
goals as more important. They are less outspoken and tend to impose less.
 Also important is the tone of voice used. An even toned individual when listening to
widely modulated crew may view them as over bearing and emotionally out of control.
To overcome this volume of voice, pausing in speech gestures and eye contact is
important. Even in this moving heads may have different meaning in different cultures as
is eye contact where it may imply negative implications such as intrusiveness and
impoliteness.
4. Reference to the maritime labor convention (MLC) 2006 discuss:-
a) Flag state and port state responsibility.
b) Onboard and Onshore complaint procedures
c) Detainable deficiencies
d) Grievance redressal mechanism for Indian seafarers
Answer –

A) Flag state and port state responsibilities:

1. Each member of the flag state is responsible for implementation of its own obligations under
the convention on ships that fly its flag.
2. Each member state shall establish an effective system for inspection and certification of MLC.
3. IN establishing an effective system for inspection and certification of MLC, a member state
may authorize (where applicable) public institutions of other organizations which it
recognizes as competent and independent to carry out inspections and /or issue certificate.
4. A MLC certificate complimented with DMLC shall provide evidence that ship has been duly
inspected.
5. Ships are required to have decent complaint procedures and casualty investigation
procedures.
6. Each flag state shall prohibit and penalize any kind of victimization of a seafarer for filing a
complaint.
Port state responsibilities:

1. Foreign flag ships are subjected to port state inspections for the purpose of reviewing
compliance with MLC requirements.
2. PSC inspections that may be carried out under the scope of this convention are to ensure
that the working and living conditions for seafarer must meet the requirement of MLC.
3. Similar to flag state PSC shall also accept MLC certificate complemented with DMLC, as
evidence that ship is in compliance with regulations.
4. Inspection in a port shall be carried out by authorized officers in accordance with the
provisions of the code.

B) Onboard and onshore complaint procedures –

Onboard complaint procedures may be used by the seafarer to lodge complaint relating to any
matter that is alleged to constitute a breach of seafarer rights.

Procedure –

1. A complaint should be addressed to the head of the department of the seafarer lodging the
complaint or to the superior officer.
2. The HOD or superior officer should attempt to resolve the matter withing prescribed time
limit according to the seriousness of the issue.
3. If the HOD or superior officer can not resolve the comlaint to the satisfaction of seafarer, the
latter may refer to the marter, who should handle the matter personally.
4. Seafarer has right to be accompanied or represented by another seafarer.
5. All complaints and decision should be recorded and a copy to be given to seafarer also.
6. If complaint cannot be resolved onboard, the matter should be referred ashore to the ship
manager/owner.
7. In all cases seafarer can file complaint directly to MASTER, SHIP MANAGER/MASTER and
COMPETENT AUTHORITY.
Onshore complaint procedure

1. A complaint by a seafarer alleging a breach of the requirements of MLC 2006 (including

seafarers rights) may be reported to an authorized officer in the port at which the seafarer’s
ship has called. In such a case the authorized officer shall undertake an initia investigation
and later on detailed investigation.
2. Authorized officer if possible ill try to promote a resolution of complaint at shipboard level
only.
3. If the complaint has not been resolved then officer shall notify the flag state , seeking advice
on a corrective action plan.
4. Even after above procedure if the complaint is not resolved, the port state shall transmit a
copy of authorized officer to the director general.

C) Detainable deficiencies.

Where an authorized officer carrying out inspections finds out that

1. The required documents are not produced or maintained or maintained incorrectly or that
the document produced does not contain information required by this convention or is other
wise invald.
2. There are clear grounds for believing that the working and living conditions on the ship do
not confirm the requirements of the convention.
3. There are reasonable grounds for believing that the ship has changed flag for the purpose of
avoiding compliance with this convention.
4. There are complaints alleging that specific working and living conditions onboard are not
confirming to the requirements of this convention
5. The conditions onboard are clearly hazardous to the safety, health and well being of sea
farer.
The authorized officer shall take steps to ensure that the ship shall not proceed to sea until NC
has been rectified or until the officers has accepted a plan of action to rectify such NC and is
satisfied that the plan will be implemented in expected manner

1. Wages repeatedly not paid.

2. Sanitary facility very unhygienic
3. Qualification/training/certification of seafarer is incomplete or invald.
4. Medical certificate not valid/medical equipment not onboard.
5. MLC/DMLC-I/DMLC-II not as per convention.
6. Issues with work and rest hour compliance.
7. If seafarer age is below 16 years.
8. Insufficient manning.
9. Inadequate ventilation, air conditioning or heating.
10. Unhygienic living condition on board.
11. Quality and quantity of food and drinking water not suitable for intended voyage.
12. Employment agreement not signed by the seafarer.
13. Non operation of sewage treatment plant.

D) Grievance redressal mechanism for Indian seafarers.

The nature of seafarer job limits their opportunity to be ashore and this makes if difficult for
them for a proper follow up action for resolving their individual problems. Such problems
become grievances in course of time. Such grievances need a quick and effective redressal

For this DG Shipping has started a grievance redressal mechanism for seafarers. This functions as
under –

1. Grievance of any seafarer may be filed in DGS, either by post or email to deputy director
general (crew branch), Mumbai.
2. Such grievances will be registered and an acknowledgement and registration number shall be
assigned within 48 hrs of receipt of grievance.
3. Seafarers can also register their grievance in person with respective MMD offices at
Chennai/Mumbai/Goa/Kochi/Noida etc.
4. Such grievances will also be personally heard by the senior officers of DFS once in 3 months
at 1500 hrs on 1st Wednesday of Jan, April, July and October every year.
5. The director general / Joint director general of shipping also hear seafarers grievances
personally once in a year on 3rd Wednesday of a given month at 1500 hrs in the officially
decided MMD office.
6. The decision of the DGS shall be final and binding.
 5. STCW 95 has laid down minimum requirements for familiarization, basic safety training and
instruction to all seafarers. Underline the importance of the role of chief engineer of a ship in
enforcing these elements of STCW training.
6. The STCW 95 convention was amended in manila on 25th June 2010. What major changes
and amendments were made for the engine department?

Illustrate the salient factors for "on-board training" and “standard of competence” as laid out
in the existing chapter III of STCW 95 and the amended chapter III of STCW (manila
amendments).

Underline the specific roles a CE needs to perform towards satisfactory training of engine
room personnel under the existing and new regulation. What will be the criteria for
evaluating competence for on-board training by a CE?

What are the salient features of STCW Manila amendment 2010 with respect to electro
technical officer, work and rest hours requirement of the Chief engineer officer toward ship
board training of the personal.

Answer –

STCW 95 chapter III deals with standards required for engine room personnel under different
capacities

 Chapter III/1 deals with 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.
 Chapter III/2 and III/3 deals with minimum standards required for chief engineer and second
engineer officer for main propulsive power of 3000 KW or more and between 750 KW and 3000
KW respectively.
 Chapter III/4 deals with standards required for serving as engine room rating.

As per STCW 2010

 Regulation III/5 deals with minimum requirements for certification of ratings as able seafarer
engine in a manned engine-room or designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned
engine-room.
 Regulation III/6 deals with minimum requirements for certification of electro-technical officers
 Regulation III/7 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of electro-technical ratings
 On Board Training
Every candidate shall follow an approved onboard training which:
a) Ensures that during the required period of seagoing service the candidate receives a systematic
practical training and experience in the tasks, duties and responsibilities of an officer in charge
of an engine room.
b) Is closely supervised and monitored by an qualified and certified engineer officer on board the
ships in which the approved seagoing service is performed.
c) Is adequately documented in a training record book.

Standards of Competence
STCW 95 has very clearly specified the standards required under various capacities CH-III has
divided the competency into four functions

Chapter III / 1
Every candidate requires demonstrating the ability to undertake various tasks, duties and
responsibilities in the following field at the operational level.
 Marine engineering
 Electrical, electronics and control engineering
 Maintenance and repair
 Controlling the operation of ship and care for persons onboard

Chapter III/2 and chapter III/3

These gives the standards required by chief engineer and second engineer officer under different
range of propulsive power, it basically gives the standard to be followed at management level with
more importance given to
 planning of job
 making sure all safety procedures are followed
 trouble shooting
 developing emergency and damage control plans
 organizing and managing crew

Chapter III / 4 - Basic Standards Engine Rating

This gives the basic standards of competency expected of engine rating
 Their strength to understand orders.
 Basic knowledge of common terms used in engine room.
 Engine room alarm systems especially fire alarms.
 Knowledge of emergency duties.
 Emergency escape routes etc.
Chapter III / 6 - Electro-Technical Officer
Every candidate for certification as electro-technical officer shall be required to demonstrate the
ability to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities in the following field at the operational
level.
a. Electrical, electronic and control engineering
b. Maintenance and repair
c. Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board

Chapter III / 7 - Electro-Technical Rating

Every electro-technical rating serving on a seagoing ship powered by main propulsion machinery of
750 kW propulsion power or more shall be required to demonstrate the competence to perform
the functions at the support level.

Role of C/E towards satisfactory training of engine room personnel

Chief engineer must establish a training programme on board ship, he should
1. Break down various jobs into duties, tasks subtasks
2. Establish priority of tasks.
3. Define performance standards for each task.
4. Identify preferred mode of learning.
5. Collect date on profile of trained personnel.
6. Give trainee a chance to work independently at the same time supervise his work constantly.
7. Identify constraints like language, lack of training etc.

If trainee is found to be lacking in knowledge in some areas the chief engineer must discuss his
weakness with him and must try to give him a chance to improve upon. If the trainee needs formal
training in some fields then chief engineer must request for shore based training of the person
concerned.

Evaluating competence for onboard training

The criteria for evaluating competence for onboard training of engine room personnel is given in
column 4, of tables A-III/1, III/3, III/4. Some of the criteria are:
1. Identification of important parameters and selection of material is appropriate.
2. Use of equipment and machine tool is appropriate and safe.
3. Selection of tools and spares is appropriate.
4. Dismantling, inspecting, repairing, and re-assembling are in accordance with manuals and good
working practices.
5. The conduct, handover and relieving of watch, confirm with the accepted principles and
procedures.
6. Safety measures for working are appropriate
7. A proper record is maintained of the movement and activities relating to the ships engineering
systems.
8. Communications are clearly and well understood in accordance with established rules and
procedures to ensure safety of operations and to avoid environment pollution.
9. The causes of machinery malfunctions are properly identified and actions are designed to ensure
overall safety of the ship and plant.
10. Procedures for monitoring shipboard operations and ensuring compliance with MARPOL
requirements are fully observed.
11. The type and scale of emergency is properly identified and emergency procedures are followed
as per plan.
12. Actions in responding to abandon ship and survival situations are appropriate.
13. Legislative requirements, relating to SOLAS and MARPOL are correctly identified.

On the basis of these guidelines and evaluation criteria, the competency of onboard training can be
evaluated.
 7. Q
a) How is Human Element issue addressed in STCW code?
b) Discuss the IMO guidelines on fatigue mitigation and management on board ships.
Answer –

A)

1. Human element issue is addressed in STCW code by human element training and watch keeping
(HTW) subcommittee.

2. All the human element issues are discussed in sessions of HTW subcommittee previously called
as standards of training and watchkeeping (STW) subcommittee.

3. The aspects discussed includes

a. minimum International standards for training and certification of seafarers and

fishing vessel personnel
b. Technical and operational issues related to Maritime safety and environmental
protection
c. Promoting and implementing the IMO human element strategy
d. Review updating and revision of IMO model courses.
e. Guidance addressing issues such as fatigue.
4. At the end of each HTW subcommittee meeting a final report is prepared for submission to the
maritime safety committee.

5. The final report provides record of the issues discussed and actions taken by the subcommittee.

The fourth session of HTW subcommittee was held from 3rd January to 3rd February 2017.
Following issues related to human element were discussed.
Validation of IMO model courses.
Model courses have become increasingly important in supporting the implementation of IMO
instruments, by providing relevant guidance which can be used globally by trainers and at
institutes approved by national Administrations.

The Sub-Committee validated the following model courses:

New courses validated:

 Basic training for ships operating in polar waters

 Advanced training for ships operating in polar waters

  Ratings forming part of a watch in a manned engine-room or designated to perform
duties in a periodically unmanned engine-room;

 Ratings as able seafarer deck;

Revised model courses validated:

 Engine-Room Simulator

 Assessment, Examination and Certification of Seafarers

 Training course for Instructors

 Onboard assessment
Interim Guidance for STCW implementation approved –
The Sub-Committee approved a circular giving advice related to implementation of the 2010
Manila amendments to the STCW convention, clarifying
1. the requirements related to the provision of documentary evidence for PSC officers and
other third-party inspection regimes
2. the training requirements for ECDIS required under the STCW Convention.

B) IMO guidelines on fatigue mitigation and management on board ships :

1. The guidelines are composed of Modules each devoted to an interested party.
2. The Guidelines on Fatigue contain practical information that can assist interested parties
(Naval Architects/Ship designers, owners/operators, Masters, Officers, other crew
members and training institutions) to better understand and manage fatigue.
3. The guidelines provide information on the potential dangers of fatigue and ultimately the
effect on the health and safety of the personnel working on ships. The guidelines contain
information on the symptoms and causes of fatigue, and address solutions to combat
fatigue in order to reduce associated health problems and prevent fatigue-related
accidents from occurring.
4. The guidelines have been divided into nine modules, as follows:
1. Module 1 Fatigue
2. Module 2 Fatigue and the Rating
3. Module 3 Fatigue and the Ship’s Officer
4. Module 4 Fatigue and the Master
5. Module 5 Fatigue and the Training Institution and Management
Personnel in charge of Training
6. Module 6 Shipboard Fatigue and the Owner/Operator/Manager
 7. Module 7 Shipboard Fatigue and the Naval Architect/Ship Designer
8. Module 8 Fatigue and the Maritime Pilot
9. Module 9 Fatigue and Tugboat Personnel
5. Although all Modules are self-contained, it is recommended that all parties become
familiar with Module 1, which contains general information on fatigue. In other instances
it will be beneficial if the reader (interested party) becomes familiar with Modules other
than the immediately applicable one.
6. Following points are discussed in each module giving each interested party an individual
overview :
1. How to recognize fatigue in yourself and others (Signs/symptoms)?
2. What can cause fatigue?
3. How can people prevent the onset of fatigue?
4. What can mitigate the effect of fatigue?
5. What can be done to reduce crew fatigue onboard?
6. What rules and regulations are in place to prevent and deal with fatigue?
7. How does fatigue relate to the ILO and IMO instruments?
8. How do the provisions of 2010 amendments to STCW Convention intend to improve the
technical and interpersonal competence of seafarers?

Answer –

1. Change of competency tables:

a. Need for deck officers to be competent in use of ECDIS.
b. Engineer officer to be able to operate pollution prevention equipment.
c. Additional emphasis is given to environmental management.
2. Leadership and Teamwork:
a. Substantial new competence requirements related to leadership, teamwork and
managerial skills need to be added.
b. Assertiveness training for all seafarers, given its importance not only for those who
have direct operations but also for lower grades who may have to communicate on
safety matters with senior officers and shore personnel.
3. Training Record Books:
a. Mandatory for all deck and engine trainees to demonstrate competence through the
use of onboard training record books, with completion to be supervised by officers
responsible for onboard training.
4. Tanker training:
a. STCW now contains new comprehensive tables for training in oil, chemical and gas
tanker operations, at both basic and advanced levels.
5. New Seafarer Grades and Certification:
a. STCW 2010 introduces extensive training and certification requirements for new
grades of “able seafarer deck” and “able seafarer engine”. These are in addition to
the current navigational and engine watch keeping requirements which are otherwise
unchanged.
b. Now competence standards and certification for the position of ETO and ETR also
been established.
6. Medical standards:
a. Additional medical fitness standards and requirements for certification have been
introduced.
b. All medical certificates from 1st January 2017 must be as per STCW 2010 standards.
7. Prevention of alcohol abuse:
a. Specific limit introduced of 0.05% blood alcohol or 0.25mg/l alcohol in the breadth.
8. Mandatory security training:
a. Specific training and certification requirements for ship security officers, new security
familiarization and training requirements for all grades of shipboard personnel. These
include new anti-piracy measures.
9. Refresher training:
a. Additional emphasis given to the need for seafarer’s standards of competence to be
maintained throughout their carriers.
b. All seafarers are required to provide evidence of appropriate levels of competence in
basic and advanced safety training every 5 years. Much of this can be conducted
onboard, but same will require training at shore based installations too.
10. Additional measures:
a. Min rest hr. period = 10 hrs. in 24 hrs. and 77 in 7 days.
b. Stricter checking by PSC for the above.
c. New training guidance for personnel working on ships operating in polar waters and
DP vessels.
9. Compare STCW 2010 with STCW 1995. Discuss the provisions of 2010 amendments to the
STCW convention that intend to improve the technical and interpersonal competence of
seafarers.

Answer –

Under 2010 amendments following key new training requirements are added to improve the
technical and interpersonal competence of seafarers.

1. Changes in competency tables :

a. Competency tables AIII/1 and III/2 have been updated to meet the emerging
technologies. ERM engine room resourse management has been added. ERM
requirements include –
i. Prioritization of resources.
ii. Assignment and allocation.
iii. Situational awareness.
iv. Effective communication.
v. Assertiveness.
vi. Leadership.
vii. Consideration of team experience.
b. Under table AIII/7 use of simulator training for ETO and ETR.
c. Need for deck officer to be competent in use of ECDIS.
d. All engineers incharge of engineering watch should have –
i. Knowledge of precautions to be taken to prevent pollution of marine
environment.
ii. Knowledge of using of anti pollution equipments.
iii. Knowledge of approved methods for disposal of marine pollutants.
2. Leadership and teamwork : for deck and engine officers substantial new competence
requirements related to leadership, teamwork and managerial skills are added.
3. Assertiveness training : for all seafarers not only those who are involved in direct operations
but also for lower grades who may communicate on safety matters with senior officers,
master &/or shore personnel.
4. Training record book: It will be mandatory for all deck and engine trainees to demonstrate
competency through the use of onboard training record books, this must be supervised by
officers certified and qualified for onboard training.
5. Tanker training: STCW now contains comprehensive tables for training in oil, chemical and
gas tankers operation at both basic and advanced levels.
6. New seafarers grades and certification:
 a. Extensive training and certification are required for new grades of “able seafarers
deck” and “able seafarers engine”
b. These are in addition to the previous navigational and watch keeping requirements.
c. New competency standards and certification for ETO and ETR are also established.
7. Medical standards: Additional medical fitness standards and requirements for certification
have been introduced.
8. Prevention of alcohol abuse: specific limit of 0.05 % blood alcohol or 0.25 mg/ltr alcohol in
breath have been introduced.
9. Mandatory security training: specific training and certification requirements for ship security
officer (SSO), new security familiarization and training requirements for all grades of
shipboard personnel. These include new anti piracy measures.
10. Refreshers training: additional emphasis given to the need for seafarers’ standards of
competency to be maintained throughout their carriers. All seafarers are required to provide
evidence of appropriate level of competency in basic and advanced safety training every 5
years.
11. Additional measures
a. New training guidance for personnel working on polar waters, DP vessels, LNG
vessels.
b. Stringent checking of PSC for rest hours.
c. Introduction of modern training methodology including distance learning and web
based training.
Comparison of STCW 1995 with STCW 2010:

STCW 95 chapter III deals with standards required for engine room personnel under different
capacities.

1. Chapter III/1 deals with mandatory minimum requirements for certification of Officer in
charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine room or designated duty engineers in a
periodic UMS engine room.
2. Chapter III/2 and III/3 deals with minimum standards required for chief engineer and 2 nd
engineer officer for main propulsive power of 3000 KW or more and between 750 KW and
3000 KW respectively.
3. Chapter III/4 deals with standards required for serving as engine room rating.
As per STCW 2010

1. Regulation III/5 deals with minimum requirement for certification of ratings as able seafarers
engine in a manned engine room or designated to perform duties in a periodically UMS E/R.
2. Regulation III/6 deals with the minimum requirements for certification of ETO.
3. Regulation III/7 deals with the minimum requirements for certification of ETR.
4. Rest hours onboard have been increased from 70 hrs to 77 hrs per week for decent working
of seafarers onboard.
5. Stringent measures for preventing fraudulent certificate of competency (COC) to be followed
in international market.
6. SSO/STSDSD course mandatory for all.
7. Human element has been emphasized in all the course contents. All management subjects
and quality topics are added due to this.
10. Illustrate the salient factors for “onboard training “ and standard of competence as laid out
in STCW Chapter III. Underline the specific roles a chief engineer needs to perform towards
satisfactory training of engine room personnel under the regulation. What will be the criteria
for evaluating competence for onboard training by a chief engineer?
Answer –

STCW 95 chapter III deals with standards required for engine room personnel under different
capacities

 Chapter III/1 deals with 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.

 Chapter III/2 and III/3 deals with minimum standards required for chief engineer and
second engineer officer for main propulsive power of 3000 KW or more and between
750 KW and 3000 KW respectively.

 Chapter III/4 deals with standards required for serving as engine room rating.
As per STCW 2010
 Regulation III/5 deals with minimum requirements for certification of ratings as able
seafarer engine in a manned engine-room or designated to perform duties in a
periodically unmanned engine-room.
 Regulation III/6 deals with minimum requirements for certification of electro-technical
officers
 Regulation III/7 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of electro-technical
ratings

On Board Training

Every candidate shall follow a approved onboard training which:

a) Ensures that during the required period of seagoing service the candidate receives a
systematic practical training and experience in the tasks, duties and responsibilities of
an officer in charge of an engine room.
b) Is closely supervised and monitored by an qualified and certified engineer officer on
board the ships in which the approved seagoing service is performed.
c) Is adequately documented in a training record book.
Standards of Competence
STCW 95 has very clearly specified the standards required under various capacities CH-III has
divided the competency into four functions
Chapter III / 1
Every candidate requires to demonstrate the ability to undertake various tasks, duties and
responsibilities in the following field at the operational level.

 Marine engineering
 Electrical, electronics and control engineering
 Maintenance and repair
 Controlling the operation of ship and care for persons onboard
Chapter III/2 and chapter III/3

These gives the standards required by chief engineer and second engineer officer under
different range of propulsive power, it basically gives the standard to be followed at
management level with more importance given to
 planning of job

 making sure all safety procedures are followed

 trouble shooting
 developing emergency and damage control plans
 organizing and managing crew
Chapter III / 4

This gives the basic standards of competency expected of engine rating

 Their strength to understand orders.
 Basic knowledge of common terms used in engine room.
 Engine room alarm systems especially fire alarms.
 Knowledge of emergency duties.

 Emergency escape routes etc.

Chapter III / 6
Every candidate for certification as electro-technical officer shall be required to demonstrate the
ability to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities in the following field at the operational
level.
a. Electrical, electronic and control engineering
b. Maintenance and repair
c. Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board

Chapter III / 7
Every electro-technical rating serving on a seagoing ship powered by main propulsion machinery
of 750 kW propulsion power or more shall be required to demonstrate the competence to
perform the functions at the support level.

Role of C/E towards satisfactory training of engine room personnel

Chief engineer must establish a training programme on board ship, he should
1. Break down various jobs into duties, tasks subtasks
2. Establish priority of tasks.

3. Define performance standards for each task.

4. Identify preferred mode of learning.
5. Collect date on profile of trained personnel.
6. Give trainee a chance to work independently at the same time supervise his work
constantly.
7. Identify constraints like language, lack of training etc.

If trainee is found to be lacking in knowledge in some areas the chief engineer must discuss his
weakness with him and must try to give him a chance to improve upon. If the trainee needs
formal training in some fields then chief engineer must request for shore based training of the
person concerned.
Evaluating competence for onboard training

The criteria for evaluating competence for onboard training of engine room personnel is given in
column 4, of tables A-III/1, III/3, III/4. Some of the criteria are:

1. Identification of important parameters and selection of material is appropriate.

2. Use of equipment and machine tool is appropriate and safe.
 3. Selection of tools and spares is appropriate.
4. Dismantling, inspecting, repairing, and re-assembling are in accordance with manuals
and good working practices.
5. The conduct, handover and relieving of watch‘ confirm with the accepted principles
and procedures.
6. Safety measures for working are appropriate

7. A proper record is maintained of the movement and activities relating to the ships
engineering systems.

8. Communications are clearly and well understood in accordance with established rules
and procedures to ensure safety of operations and to avoid environment pollution.

9. The causes of machinery malfunctions are properly identified and actions are designed
to ensure overall safety of the ship and plant.
10. Procedures for monitoring shipboard operations and ensuring compliance with
MARPOL requirements are fully observed.
11. The type and scale of emergency is properly identified and emergency procedures are
followed as per plan.
12. Actions in responding to abandon ship and survival situations are appropriate.
13. Legislative requirements, relating to SOLAS and MARPOL are correctly identified.
On the basis of these guidelines and evaluation criteria, the competency of onboard training can
be evaluated.
11) Develop a training program for activities in a vessel, where you have recently joined as CE
highlighting the specific needs for engine room personnel in case of:
1. Use of life saving appliances
2. Fire in accommodation
3. Explosion in engine room, when ship is in dry dock
Answer –
 “STANDARDS OF TRAINING AND CERTIFICATES OF WATCHKEEPING” (STCW 95)Section A-
1/6 deals with the training and assessments of seafarer onboard training
A. Use of life saving appliances
 C/E should ensure that the entire crew is trained on the use of personnel
lifesaving appliances like donning of life jacket, use of lifebuoys and use of
immersion suit and anti-exposure (CTPA) suit clear instructions should give to the
crew to understand the muster list and his duty in case of an emergency situation
operating instructions of life craft, life boat and rescue boat should also be
explained.
 Thus, the training in the use of life saving appliances and the importance of
communication until more confidence in to crew.
 Crew is trained for emergencies like “fire in accommodation” training should
include following type of action
B. Fire in Accommodation
 Immediate Action:
i. Raise alarm and inform C/E and master. All personnel should be mustered
and accounted for
ii. All concerned should be informed about location of fire
iii. Fire parties should be organized and equipped. Attack party should be
ready with fire suit and B.A.
iv. Check and start emerging fire pump
v. All appropriate valves on the system should be adjusted to maintain fire
main pressure in required area.
vi. If required close water tight doors
vii. Stop all blowers, fans and close ventilation slaps and sky lights
viii. Arrange evaluation of injured person and render first Aid if needed
 Follow-up
i. Use appropriate fire extinguishing agent
ii. In case of dangerous cargoes consult ‘IMDG’ code
iii. Check effects on ship’s stability and maintain ship in upright position
iv. Ensure fire parties working in pairs/teams
v. Try up limit the fire by spreading by shifting the combustible material in
the vicinity.
vi. Make sure boundary cooling is provided
 vii. Monitor the temperature of boundaries being cooled.
viii. Ensure sufficient protection to personnel is provided
ix. Confirm is there is need of using smoothening methods like CO2 etc.
x. Make detailed record of items on firefighting procedure used, progress
made and damage caused by fire.
xi. If any medical assistance is required for victim injured crew member
xii. Vessel rescue equipment deployed
C. Explosion in Engine Room, when Ship is in dry-dock
 Prevention of occurrence is the most important object of training especially in this
scenario.
 Need and use of permits w.r.t hot work, work on F.O, L.O. Tanks, procedures
required by shore authorities and their checks and certification before carrying
out operations. Such as above should be explained to all ship staff.
 In the event of explosion, the response has to be well organized and training for
this will include:
i. Need to muster and location and muster stations
ii. Need to establish proper head count and get information about missing
persons if any
iii. Rescue procedures, first Aid for those injured
iv. The need to identify and check/Monitor adjacent crew spaces to give early
warning of a secondary effect of explosion such as fire breaking out in
adjacent compartment
v. Need to inform shore authorities and seek them assistance as required.
vi. Also, in case of fire in accommodation chief officer c/o is an in-charge of
fire team and second engineer will be in support team in charge and will
assist the firefighting team in boundary cooling, fireman outfit SCBA etc.
vii. In some ships C/E also acts as SSO Ship Security Officer/Ship Safety Officer
for safe working practices to be continued on board ship in E/R as well as
on Deck
viii. So C/E should ensure that all the personnel involved in the designated
work should be familiar in his field. He should know code of safe working
practices