STCW

Question 1

What is STCW?

Answer 1

International Convention on Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for seafarers

Question 2

Can a seafarer sail on a UK ship with a foreign CoC?

Answer 2

Yes, as long as they have a CeC issued by the MCA or have a confirmed documentary evidence of a submitted CeC or endorsement application

Question 3

Who does STCW apply to?

Answer 3

All seafarers serving on seagoing ships

Question 4

What does STCW regulate?

Answer 4

1. Medical Fitness
2. Standards of knowledge and competence for seafarers
3. Special training for oil and chemical tankers, gas carriers and passenger ships
4. GMDSS training
5. Special training for the IGF Code (International code of safety for ships using gases or other low flashpoint fuels)
6. Training and qualifications for ships in polar waters
7. Basic safety training requirements
8. Minimum security training

Question 5

How does STCW regulate seafarer rest?

Answer 5

Each administration should establish and enforce rest periods for watchkeeping personnel to prevent fatigue. Watchkeepers should have a minimum of 10 hours rest in any 24 hour period and a minimum of 77 hours rest in any 7 day period.

Question 6

What does STCW require the Master to do in regards to watchkeeping?

Answer 6

1. Ensure that watchkeeping arrangements are adequate for maintaining a safe watch
2. Ensure Officers in charge of navigating shall be physically present at all times
3. Ensure radio officers maintain a continuous listening watch
4. Ensure engineer officers are immediately available and on call/physically present during periods of duty
5. An appropriate and effective watch is maintained when at anchor or moored.
6. An appropriate security watch is maintained

Question 7

How should rest periods be arranged?

Answer 7

Rest must be given in no more than 2 periods and one must be at least 6 hours in length. Intervals between rest shall not exceed 14 hours.

Question 8

Where should watch schedules be posted?

Answer 8

Somewhere accessible by the crew

Question 9

Can the Master suspend watch schedules?

Answer 9

Yes in case of emergency. They may require a seafarer to perform any hours of work necessary until the normal situation has been restored.

Question 10

When should the OOW call the Captain?

Answer 10

1. If restricted visibility is encountered or expected.
2. If traffic conditions or movement of other ships are causing concern.
3. Difficulty is experienced maintaining course
4. Failure to sight land, navigation mark or obtain soundings when expected
5. Unexpectedly sighting land, navigation mark or change in soundings
6. Breakdown of engines or essential equipment
7. Radio equipment malfunction
8. Heavy weather
9. Any hazard to navigation
10. Any other emergency or if in any doubt

Question 11

What ECDIS training is required for the Master and Navigation Officers?

Answer 11

Generic ECDIS training for which NARAS/NAEST is accepted.

Ship specific ECDIS training/familiarisation.