Why and What it is All About - STCW 2010 

         STCW 2010 – The International Convention on standards of training, certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers

Amended Convention entry into force on 1 January 2012.

Reasons for change:

1.       Accidents/Causalities has been caused due to majority of human error( Upto 80%)
2.       Improvement in Education and Training standards.
3.       Varying in Education and Training system.
4.       Insufficient backing of authorities.
5.       To improve standards of competency for senior ratings.

Enhancement of STCW 2010:

1. Well structured/ organised and more precise and easy to understand.
2. Certificates of Competency & endorsements to be issued only by the Flag state Administration, Hence fraudulent practices can be easily reduced.
3. Medical standards for seafarers improved and a common standard to be maintained, Hence seafarers from one country can serve on board ships of another country without undergoing another medical exam.
4. Revalidation requirements rationalized for the benefit of the seafarer.
5. Introduction of modern training methodology i.e. distance learning and web based learning (e-Learning and Stimulator learning).
6. Hours of rest harmonized with the requirements of ILO Maritime Labour Convention (2006) with a view to reducing fatigue.
7. Requirements introduced to avoid alcohol abuse.
8. Well defined companies responsibilities like Safe manning, Training, onboard Familiarisation, Efficient communication onboard, Certificate verification, welfare of the crew onboard and during leave period.
9. Navigation – Ship reporting system, ECDIS (Electronic chart Display and Information), Bridge resource management, Watchkeeping standards.
10. To Maintain a safe Engine Room watch.

For more Information, refer to www.imo.org
       
                             These gives only basic idea of STCW 2010.....if you need more information refer to www.imo.org My next article for the readers will be on new regulations entry into force on JAN1st2013....