IMO Paves the Way for a Thorough Examination of Seafarer Training Standards

The IMO Subcommittee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW) has established a roadmap for the comprehensive review of the International Convention on Standards for the Training, Certification and Watchkeeping of Seafarers (STCW) and the associated STCW Code. The review aims to update global training standards to accommodate new trends, developments, and challenges in the maritime sector. At its 10th meeting in London, the subcommittee outlined a methodology and specific areas to be reviewed, including new technologies on ships, e-certification, mental health, and gender sensitivity.

The subcommittee agreed on a two-stage methodology consisting of a gap analysis of the STCW Convention and Code (Phase 1) and a subsequent revision phase to address these gaps (Phase 2), as well as establishing an intersessional working group before the next subcommittee meeting. The proposed changes and decisions will be submitted for approval to the upcoming 108th meeting of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 108). Some of the topics discussed also included efforts to combat bullying and harassment on ships, the introduction of a new module on the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS) with a focus on STCW, and the development of training requirements for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels.

The MSC 108 is expected to adopt draft amendments to the STCW Code to prevent and respond to bullying and harassment in the maritime sector, including sexual assault and sexual harassment (SASH). The Subcommittee also introduced a new module on the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS) with a focus on STCW. The platform will facilitate communication and information exchange to support Parties in fulfilling their obligations under the STCW Agreement. Discussions also took place regarding the development of training requirements for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels.

Source .