IMO Approves Draft Guidelines for Seafarer Training on Alternative Fuel Ships

The International Maritime Organization’s sub-committee on Human Element, Training, and Watchkeeping (HTW) has approved draft interim guidelines for training seafarers working on ships powered by alternative fuels and new technologies. These guidelines are set to be submitted to the Maritime Safety Committee for approval in June 2025. The need for such guidance was recognized during a session in London, citing the increasing use of sustainable fuels and associated safety risks as key drivers for this initiative.

In addition to the generic interim guidelines, specific training guidelines are being developed for seafarers working on methyl/ethyl alcohol-fueled ships. A Correspondence group is focused on creating interim training guidelines for various alternative fuels and new technologies, including methyl/ethyl alcohol, ammonia, hydrogen fuel cells, LPG, hydrogen, and battery-powered ships. The group will report its progress to the sub-committee at the 12th session in 2026.

Meanwhile, the IMO has initiated the NextWave Seafarers project in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to address the seafarer shortage issue and provide career opportunities for aspiring seafarers from developing nations. The project aims to offer onboard training to 20 cadets from least developed countries and small island developing states through the KSA’s Bahri Shipping Line. This effort is part of a broader goal to create a skilled, diverse, and resilient maritime workforce to meet the increasing demands of the industry.

Source