The 10th session of the IMO’s Sub-Committee on Human
Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW 10) was held from 5 to 9 February 2024.
Comprehensive review of the STCW
Convention and Code
The STCW Convention and Code establish the minimum
training, certification and watchkeeping standards for seafarers worldwide. HTW
10 progressed a comprehensive review of the 1978 STCW Convention and Code to
address inconsistencies and to improve the provisions based on experiences and
new technologies.
A
two-step methodology for the comprehensive review was agreed. The first step will be an in-depth
review of the entire Convention and Code, including issues related to outdated
training requirements, emerging technologies, digitalization, cybersecurity
awareness and psychological safety. The next step will be a revision of the
Convention and Code as a result of the gaps identified. HTW 10 also agreed on a
road map for the work, targeting completion in late 2027.
The
methodology and the road map will be submitted to MSC 108 (May 2024) for
approval. In
addition, an intersessional Working Group meeting will be held before HTW 11 in
2025, subject to approval by MSC 108 and Council 132.
Training for seafarers on ships using
alternative fuels
The decarbonization of shipping may entail the need
for relevant training standards and requirements for seafarers to handle new
types of marine fuels and technologies.
HTW 10 agreed that training provisions for
seafarers on ships using alternative fuels, including battery-powered ships,
should be developed in parallel with the comprehensive review of the STCW
Convention and Code. The work is expected to be initiated at HTW 11 in 2025,
subject to approval by MSC 108 (May 2024).
STCW online database (GISIS module)
HTW 10 agreed to establish a new module in the
IMO’s online information database (GISIS) for a trial period to make
information on recognition of STCW certificates and the “certificate
verification facility” available to all stakeholders. The initiative is a
response to reports on fraudulent STCW certificates and endorsements.
Model training courses
IMO model courses intend to assist instructors in
developing training programmes for seafarers as per the International Convention
of Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW),
1978. The model courses are subject to
regular review to ensure that they are consistent with the current IMO
instruments and reflect best practices and modern technologies.
HTW 10 validated the following two model courses:
1.32 on “Operational use of integrated bridge
systems including integrated navigational systems”; 1.35 on “Liquefied
Petroleum Gas (LPG) tanker cargo and ballast handling simulator”
Amongst the next model courses planned for
validation is the model course 1.21 on “Personal safety and social
responsibilities”, which will incorporate the new competences to prevent and
respond to bullying and harassment in the maritime sector, including sexual
assaul
As HTW is a Sub-Committee, all decisions concerning
rules, regulations and dates are subject to further consideration and approval
by the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) and the Marine Environment Protection
Committee (MEPC), as relevant. DNV recommends that our customers monitor the
outcome of MSC 108 in May 2024.