Changes to Competence Tables

Various changes to the STCW Competence Tables are included in the Manila Amendments. Important examples include the need for deck officers to be competent in the use of ECDIS and for engineer officers to be able to operate pollution prevention equipment. More generally, additional emphasis is given to environment management.

Leadership and Teamwork

For deck and engine officers, substantial new competence requirements related to leadership, teamwork and managerial skills have been added. Assertiveness training for all seafarers has also been included, given its importance not only for those who have to direct operations but also for those in lower grades who may have to communicate on safety matters with senior officers, the master and/or shore personnel.

Training Record Books

It will be mandatory for all deck and engine rating trainees to demonstrate competence through the use of on board training record books, with completion to be supervised by officers responsible for on board training (in addition to the existing requirements applicable to officer trainees).

Mandatory Security Training

As well as specific training and certification requirements for Ship Security Officers, new security familiarisation and training requirements have been introduced for all grades of shipboard personnel. Seafarers may already comply with these new security requirements through seagoing service or previous training.

Refresher Training
An important feature of the Manila amendments is the additional emphasis given to the need for seafarers standards of competence to be maintained throughout their careers. All seafarers are now required to provide evidence of appropriate levels of competence in basic safety training (including survival, fire-fighting, first aid, and personal safety) every five years. Much of this refresher training can be conducted on board, but some will require training at shore based institutions. Seafarers who hold certificates of proficiency in survival craft, rescue boats (CPSC) and fast rescue boats or advanced fire fighting will also have to show that they have maintained their levels of competence in these skills every five years.

Tanker Training
STCW now contains new, comprehensive Competence Tables for training in oil, chemical and gas tanker operations, at both basic and advanced levels. (New guidance has also been developed for crew on offshore support vessels and all ships in polar waters.)

New Seafarer Grades and Certification

STCW 2010 introduces extensive training and certification requirements for the new grades of Able Seafarer Deck and Able Seafarer Engine. These are in addition to the current navigational and engine watch rating requirements which are

otherwise unchanged. New competence standards and certification for the position of Electro-Technical Officer and Electro-Technical Rating have also been established, in recognition of a position already widely established, particularly in the passenger ship industry. It should be noted that there are many interchangeable competences between the Able Seafarer Engine and the Electro-Technical Rating. It is therefore possible to consider the Electro-Technical Rating aspects as a supplement to the Able Seafarer Engine training, which should contribute to career development for such seafarers and might enhance the flexibility of their role on board.

Medical Standards
Additional medical fitness standards and requirements for certification have been introduced.

Prevention of Unsafe Alcohol Use

These include a specific limit of 0.05% blood alcohol level or 0.25mg/l alcohol in the breath.

Manila Amendments
training requirements Changes to Minimum Rest Hours
The STCW Convention also covers watchkeeping arrangements. This includes seafarers minimum rest periods to prevent fatigue and ensure that seafarers are fit for duty. The STCW minimum rest hours are now harmonized with the work hour requirements adopted by the International Labour Organization including the ILO Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). The new IMO rest hour requirements will enter into force in January 2012 and introduce stricter minimum requirements than those currently in force. The main changes are as follows:

Key new

Minimum amount of rest in any 7 day period is increased to

77 hours from 70 hours;

Seafarers must always have 10 hours rest in any 24 hour

period with no exceptions, except during an emergency;

It is now mandatory to maintain records of each individual

seafarers rest hours, which may be inspected during Port State Control inspections; and

The rest hour limits now apply to most seafarers on board,

including masters, not only watchkeepers as had previously been the case.

From January 2012, seafarers will need to review and sign a record of their work/rest hours periodically (typically at least once a month) to ensure they comply with the minimum rest hours stipulated.

A Guide for Seafarers

When will these changes affect you?
STCW Certification

Seafarers holding STCW certificates issued prior to 1 January 2012 will have to meet the new requirements, including new refresher training, in order for their certificates to be revalidated beyond 1 January 2017. Your employer and certificate issuing administration should be able to advise about any new training that must be undertaken. Some administrations may decide to implement the new standards earlier than others.

Security Training
From 1 January 2014, all seafarers will have to be trained and certified in security matters in accordance with the new 2010 provisions, which include new anti-piracy elements.

Medical Certification
You may be issued with a medical certificate in accordance with current requirements until 2017. After this date, all medical certificates must be issued in accordance with the 2010 standards, though in practice your administration may require you to meet the new standards before 2017.

Implementation dates of 2010 amendments

1 JANUARY 2012 1 JANUARY 2013 1 JULY 2013 1 JANUARY 2014 1 JANUARY 2017 New training standards mandatory Training and certification may continue in accordance with STCW 95 Some governments may begin to introduce new

standards Governments may continue to renew and revalidate pre 1 January 2012 certificates and endorsements and governments may continue to issue, recognise and endorse certificates in accordance with the provisions of the Convention which applied immediately prior to 1 January 2012 in respect of those seafarers who commenced training immediately prior to 1 July 2013 New minimum rest hours enforced The 2010 Manila amendments enter into force New entrants commencing training are required to do so according to the new standards STCW 2010 certification for all seafarers New training standards optional Mandatory security training in accordance with Manila amendments

What is ISF?

The International Shipping Federation (ISF) is the name used by the International Chamber of Shipping when representing maritime employers globally on labour affairs and training issues. ISF/ICS members include national shipowners associations from 36 countries. ISF represented employers throughout the discussions at IMO which led to the adoption of the STCW amendments. In 2011, ISF published comprehensive Guidelines on the IMO STCW Convention including the 2010 Manila Amendments available from maritime booksellers or Marisec Publications see www.marisec.org To assist shipping companies to comply with the new requirements to maintain records of individual seafarers rest hour records, ISF has developed its Watchkeeper 3 computer programme see www.isfwatchkeeper.com to download free trial. ISF also produces On Board Training Record Books, for both officer and rating trainees, which it is currently updating to reflect

the STCW 2010 standards. International Shipping Federation International Chamber of Shipping 12 Carthusian Street London EC1M 6EZ Tel +44 20 7417 8844 Fax +44 20 7417 8877 ics@marisec.org www.marisec.org

Posted Friday 25th June 2010 IMO BRIEFING: Major revisions to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (the STCW Convention) and its associated Code have been adopted at a Diplomatic Conference in Manila, thereby ensuring that the necessary global standards will be in place to train and certify seafarers to operate technologically advanced ships for some time to come. The Conference ran from 21 to 25 June under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution from ships. It had the support of the government of the Philippines and was attended by more than 500 delegates from delegations from 85 IMO Member States, as well as by observers from three associate members, the International Labour Organization (ILO), the European Commission (EC) and one other intergovernmental 0rganization; and 17 non-governmental organizations. The amendments, to be known as The Manila amendments to the STCW Convention and Code are set to enter into force on 1 January 2012 under the tacit acceptance procedure and are aimed at bringing the Convention and Code up to date with developments since they were initially adopted in 1978 and further revised in 1995; and to enable them to address issues that are anticipated to emerge in the foreseeable future. Amongst the amendments adopted, there are a number of important changes to each chapter of the Convention and Code, including: * Improved measures to prevent fraudulent practices associated with certificates of competency and strengthen the evaluation process (monitoring of Parties compliance with the Convention); * Revised requirements on hours of work and rest and new requirements for the prevention of drug and alcohol abuse, as well as updated standards relating to medical fitness standards for seafarers; * New certification requirements for able seafarers; * New requirements relating to training in modern technology such as electronic charts and information systems (ECDIS); * New requirements for marine environment awareness training and training in leadership and teamwork; * New training and certification requirements for electro-technical officers; * Updating of competence requirements for personnel serving on board all types of tankers, including new requirements for personnel serving on liquefied gas tankers; * New requirements for security training, as well as provisions to ensure that seafarers are properly trained to cope if their ship comes under attack by pirates; * Introduction of modern training methodology including distance learning and web-based learning; * New training guidance for personnel serving on board ships operating in polar waters; and * New training guidance for personnel operating Dynamic Positioning Systems. Conference resolutions In addition to two resolutions adopting the aforesaid amendments, the Conference also adopted resolutions on:

- Expression of appreciation to the host Government; - Transitional provisions and early implementation; - Verification of certificates of competency and endorsements contained; - Standards of training and certification and ships manning levels; - Promotion of technical knowledge, skills and professionalism of seafarers; - Development of guidelines to implement international standards on medical fitness for seafarers; - Revision of existing model courses published by the International Maritime Organization and development of new model courses; - Promotion of technical co-operation; - Measures to ensure the competency of masters and officers of ships operating in polar waters; - Attracting new entrants to, and retaining seafarers in, the maritime profession; - Accommodation for trainees; - Promotion of the participation of women in the maritime industry; - Future amendments and review of the STCW Convention and Code; - Contribution of the International Labour Organization; - Role of the World Maritime University and IMO International Maritime Law Institute and International Maritime Safety, Security and Environment Academy (IMSSEA) in promoting enhanced maritime standards; - Year of the Seafarer; and - Day of the Seafarer. Speaking at the close of the successful Conference, IMO Secretary-General Efthimios E. Mitropoulos said that the adoption of the revised STCW had brought to a successful conclusion the concerted effort undertaken by so many Government and industry alike, dedicated seafarer representative bodies, maritime training institutions, and the many other interested organizations over a fouryear period.

The immediate task at hand is to promulgate the standards of maritime excellence we have just come to adopt amongst those working at the sharp end of the industry and to promote their proper implementation and enforcement through the usual means of enacting legislation and introducing enabling measures in maritime administrations and training establishments, Mr. Mitropoulos said. I would suggest that the successful closure of the Conference should be seen as marking the beginning of strenuous efforts at three levels: first, to commence, at the earliest possible opportunity, work to translate the revised STCW requirements into national regulations with the aim of expediting their implementation; second, to deliver, as appropriate, technical assistance through IMOs Integrated Technical Co-operation Programme with the aim of familiarizing STCW Parties with the revised requirements, and to provide useful technical advice on the STCW Convention and the STCW Code as a whole; and third, to initiate action, as may be necessary, to ensure the full and effective implementation and rigorous enforcement of the revised STCW Convention and Code when the amendments come into force on the agreed date of 1 January 2012, Mr. Mitropoulos added. The Conference has been a key highlight in the IMO-designated Year of the Seafarer, which aims to provide the maritime community with an opportunity to pay tribute to seafarers from all over the world for their unique contribution to society and in recognition of the vital part they play in the facilitation of global trade in a hazardous environment. (contributed article)

On June 25th, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other major stakeholders in the global shipping and manning industry formally ratified the so-called "Manila Amendments" to the current Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and its associated Code. The Convention amendments are set to enter into force on January 1, 2012 under the tacit acceptance procedure and are aimed at bringing the STCW up to date with developments since its conception and initial adoption in 1978, and the subsequent amendments in 1995. It should be noted that the Coast Guard had not yet committed to this or any other time frame yet. 2010 STCW (MANILA) AMENDMENTS The following is what we can probably expect from the amendments to the STCW convention: Improved measures to prevent fraudulent practices associated with certificates of competency and strengthen the evaluation process (monitoring of Parties compliance with the Convention). Revised requirements on hours of work and rest and new requirements for the prevention of drug and alcohol abuse, as well as updated standards relating to medical fitness standards for seafarers. STCW Chapter VI Security Training: The amendments will include three levels of security training Level One - Security Awareness (All crew members) Level Two - Person with Security Duties Level Three - Ship Security Officer ISPS Code Anti Piracy training will be added to each level as well. Marine Environmental Issues: The amendments will include the addition of marine environmental awareness issues in the Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities course conducted as part of Basic Safety Training as well as an operational level of marine environmental concerns at the STCW Code A-II/1 and A-III/1 levels of Certification. The Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities (PSSR) coverage of the following subjects will be added: Communications Control of Fatigue

 Teamwork These additional subjects will make the PSSR module longer in length but it should still be less than one day in length. However, this will cause an increase in the length of Basic Safety Training courses from the usual five days to at least 5.5 days. Refresher Safety Training: One of the key elements of the STCW 2010 amendments appears to be the removal of loopholes with respect to refresher training. The STCW Code, which was vague in this area and many countries opted to interpret the within five years requirement loosely. It has been decided that certain courses that may affect the safety and survival of the crew and passengers in an emergency warrant periodic refresher training. The Coast Guard is conducting a review to determine which components can be done by e-learning or shipboard drills and which will require shore based or practical training. The safety courses will require refresher training every five years and the courses may be abbreviated somewhat from the original course lengths. The training that will need to be refreshed by an approved method (in class or shipboard yet to be determined) are: Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats Advanced Firefighting Basic Safety Training Fast Rescue Boat Medical Training

STCW Chapter V Tankers and Tank Ships: There will now be three categories of Tankerman on tank ships. Oil Chemical Liquid Gas In addition, each Tankerman category will have two levels Basic (currently called assistant) Advanced (currently called Person in Charge (PIC) The major change will be the division of the chemical from the oil and each requiring its own sea service prerequisites on each type of vessel and specific training for each. Additionally, there will be a specially designated Tanker Fire Fighting Course, although the Coast Guard believes that most approved Basic Fire Fighting courses will cover this requirement. Passenger Vessels - There will be a consolidation of rules for passenger vessels. Offshore Supply Vessels (OSV), Dynamic Positioning (DP) Vessels and Operations Ice Covered Waters: There will be a new section with guidance on special licensing or training requirements for OSVs, Dynamic Positioning (DP) Vessels and vessels operating in water that are covered in Ice. STCW Chapter III Chapter Three of STCW is the section on Engineering. The principal change in Chapter III is the addition of an Able Seafarer Engine Rating. This is separate from the Rating Forming Part of an Engineering Watch. In the U.S. System, we have always had Qualified Member of the Engineering Department (QMED) ratings. Many countries have only had the RFPEW level and this new Able Seafarer Engine rating will require the RFPEW to be STCW Compliant. This will require training and testing and will be a new section called A-III/5. Section A-III/1 will be reformatted and reorganized. You will no longer need to have the 30 months of approved training in the engine room. The wording will now be more synchronized with the deck department and will read three years of sea service with one year of combined work shop skills and six months of engine room watchstanding. A new Electro Technical Officer (ETO) and an Electro Technical Rating (ETR) will be added. We understand that the United States will not be making this a priority. Engine Room Resource Management, Teamwork and Leadership training will be mandatory at both the operational and management levels. STCW Chapter II Support Level Chapter Two is the section on the deck department. The principal change in Chapter II is the addition of an Able Seafarer Deck Rating. This is separate from the Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW). In the U.S. System, we have always had an Able Seaman Endorsement available for domestic certification and now it will be the upgrade from the RFPNW level which will be the required prerequisite to an STCW Compliant Rating. Based on sea time requirements, it will be critical for a mariner to get their RFPNW qualification as early in their career as possible. Sea time toward an AB qualification will not start until RFPNW qualifications have been met and any sea time toward subsequent licenses will require the AB endorsement. This will require

training and testing and will be a new section called A-II/5. STCW Chapter II Operational and Management Level Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) will be required training for all deck officers on all vessels that are equipped with ECDIS. ECDIS will be treated the same as ARPA or the GMDSS training, where it is an STCW restriction from serving on equipped vessels if you dont have these training certifications. By 2012 nearly all vessels more than 200 gross tons will be required under a separate law to have ECDIS equipment. By default, any deck officer on vessels of more than 200 tons will need ECDIS training. There will be two levels of ECDIS, operational and management dealing with the different responsibilities of each. The Coast Guard believes it can make a reduction of training requirements in two areas: Celestial Navigation still required but certain celestial navigation topics will not be required Morse Code by Flashing Light still required but a reduced requirement to receiving single letters, S.O.S., etc. Bridge Resource Management, Teamwork and Leadership training will be mandatory at both the operational and management levels. This has been required in the U.S. since 2002 anyway. S TCW Chapter VIII This section of the STCW Code will be harmonized with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) Convention. The Maritime Labour Convention was signed in 2006 and was created to create regulations for seafarers rights so that there would be a global minimum standard for how mariners are treated. Where the IMO (International Maritime Organization) oversees the STCW Certification Convention, the ILO (International Labour Organization) oversees the MLC Convention. When the International Labour Organization adopted a bill of rights for the worlds maritime workers, all concerned governments, seafarers and shipowners hailed this new labour standard as a landmark development for the worlds most globalized sector. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) had taken important steps to build protections in the areas of safety, certification and pollution, but the sector was awash in a wide range of international labour standards going back over eight decades. The ILO Maritime Labour Convention 2006 modernizes these standards to: 1. Consolidate and update more than 60 earlier ILO Conventions and Recommendations. 2. Set minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship. 3. Address conditions of employment, accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering, health protection, medical care, welfare and social security protection. 4. Promote compliance by operators and owners of ships by giving governments sufficient flexibility to implement its requirements in a manner best adapted to their individual laws and practices. 5. Strengthen enforcement mechanisms at all levels, including provisions for complaint procedures available to seafarers, the shipowners and shipmasters supervision of conditions on their ships, the flag States jurisdiction and control over their ships, and port state inspections of foreign ships.
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