Web Alert: Polar Code amendments to STCW

Further to the club’s previous web alert in December 2016, members are advised that there has been a reported change in respect of the effective date for the mandatory training requirements under the International convention on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). These requirements for the training and qualifications of masters and deck officers on ships operating in Polar Waters were adopted by IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee in November 2016.

The new STCW amendments will take effect on 1 July 2018 (not 1 January 2018 as previously announced). The amendments include transitional provisions which will allow seafarers who began their approved seagoing service in Polar Waters before 1 July 2018 to meet the alternative basic training or advanced requirements by 1 July 2020.

As the Polar Code’s entry into force dates approach, the club will continue to advise the members of any regulatory updates.