ONGOING COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF THE STCW CONVENTION AND CODE by Captain Ashok Mahapatra Head, Maritime Training and Human Element Section Maritime Safety Division International Maritime Organization amahapat@imo.org

INTRODUCTION STCW Convention adopted in 1978 Recognized in late 1980’s, it was not achieving its intended purpose Series of accidents led to a decision in 1993 to extensively revise the STCW Convention 1995 amendments resulted in a competence-based training and assessment rather than knowledge based Defined skills, knowledge, understanding and abilities to ensure that individuals were capable of fulfilling there roles on board

Comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code PRINCIPLES Retain the structure and goals of the 1995 revision Do not down scale existing standards Do not amend the articles of the Convention Address inconsistencies, interpretations, outdated provisions, MSC instructions, clarifications already issued and technological advances Address requirements for effective communication

Comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code PRINCIPLES (Cont) Provide for flexibility in terms of compliance and for required levels of training, certification and watchkeeping arrangements due to innovation in technology Address the special character and circumstances of short sea shipping and the offshore industry Address security-related issues

AREAS TO BE COVERED Fraudulent certificates Definitions Near-coastal voyages Communication of information (White list process) Tanker training requirements Able seafarer

AREAS TO BE COVERED Amendments to the STCW Convention and Code so as to include security-related provisions Master and deck department Engine Department Emergency, occupational safety, medical care and survival functions

AREAS TO BE COVERED Alternative certification Watchkeeping STCW Code Pleasure - and commercially operated yachts

TIMELINE Complete the comprehensive review along with appropriate amendments to the STCW Convention and Code - STW 41 (January 2010) Adoption - Diplomatic Conference in Manila, Philippines (June 2010) Anticipated entry into force date - 1 January 2012

LEADERSHIP TRAINING Essential - value of shipping assets, working environment, risk/reward ratio, world community expectations place ever greater demands on owners, managers and seafarers Criminalization of seafarers - personal liability / rights and obligations Industry to focus on and promote the qualities of leadership and apply leadership training Retaining ship-board personnel Simultaneous leadership training for both ship - and shore - based staff to ensure effective communication

MANPOWER SHORTAGE Shortage of seafarers – cause for concern BIMCO/ISF study predicts estimated shortfall of 27,000 officers by 2015 Raise profile Encourage young persons to take up careers at sea Russian Federation well placed to fill the gap

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