Adoption Of The Seafarers' Training, Certification And Watchkeeping Code

Filename: 1995-WatchkeepingCode.EN.txt

Adoption Of The Seafarers' Training, Certification And Watchkeeping Code

Source: http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/other/dfat/treaties/1997/33.html

THE CONFERENCE,

HAVING ADOPTED Resolution 1 on Adoption of the 1995 Amendments to the Annex to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978,

RECOGNIZING the importance of establishing detailed mandatory standards of competence and other mandatory provisions necessary to ensure that all seafarers shall be properly educated and trained, adequately experienced, skilled and competent to perform their duties in a manner which provides for the safety of life and property at sea and the protection of the marine environment,

ALSO RECOGNIZING the need to allow for the timely amendment of such mandatory standards and provisions in order to effectively respond to changes in technology, operations, practices and procedures used on board ships,

RECALLING that a large percentage of maritime casualties and pollution incidents are caused by human error,

APPRECIATING that one effective means of reducing the risks associated with human error in the operation of seagoing ships is to ensure that the highest practicable standards of training, certification and competence are maintained in respect of the seafarers who are employed on such ships,

DESIRING to achieve and maintain the highest practicable standards for the safety of life and property at sea and in port and for the protection of the environment,

HAVING CONSIDERED the Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code, comprised of Part A - Mandatory Standards regarding Provisions of the Annex to the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, and Part B - Recommended Guidance regarding Provisions of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, proposed and circulated to all Members of the Organization and all Parties to the Convention,

NOTING that Regulation I/1, paragraph 2, of the amended Annex to the 1978 STCW Convention provides that Part A of the STCW Code supplements the Regulations annexed to the Convention and that any reference to a requirement in a regulation also constitutes a reference to the corresponding section of Part A of the STCW Code,

1. ADOPTS:

.1 the Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code, Part A - Mandatory Standards regarding Provisions of the Annex to the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, set out in Annex 1 to the present Resolution;

.2 the Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code, Part B - Recommended Guidance regarding Provisions of the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended and its Annex, set out in Annex 2 to the present resolution;

2. RESOLVES

.1 that the provisions of Part A of the STCW Code shall enter into force for each Party to the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, on the same date and in the same manner as the amendments to that Convention adopted by the Conference;

.2 to recommend that the guidance contained in Part B of the STCW Code should be taken into account by all Parties to the 1978 STCW Convention, as amended, as from the date of entry into force of the amendments to that Convention adopted by the Conference;

3. INVITES the International Maritime Organization:

.1 to keep the provisions of Parts A and B of the STCW Code under review and consult, as may be appropriate, with the International Labour Organization, the International Telecommunication Union and the World Health Organization and to bring the need for any future amendment thereto to the attention of the Maritime Safety Committee for consideration and adoption as may be appropriate;

.2 to communicate this Resolution and any future amendment thereto that may be adopted, to the attention of all Parties to the STCW Convention.

ANNEX 1

SEAFARERS' TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING (STCW) CODE

PART A

MANDATORY STANDARDS REGARDING PROVISIONS OF THE ANNEX TO THE STCW CONVENTION

INTRODUCTION

1 This Part of the STCW Code contains mandatory provisions to which specific reference is made in the Annex to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended, hereinafter referred to as the STCW Convention. These provisions give in detail the minimum standards required to be maintained by Parties in order to give full and complete effect to the Convention.

2 Also contained in this Part are standards of competence required to be demonstrated by candidates for the issue and revalidation of certificates of competency under the provisions of the STCW Convention. To clarify the linkage between the alternative certification provisions of Chapter VII and the certification provisions of Chapters II, III and IV, the abilities specified in the standards of competence are grouped as appropriate under the following seven functions:

.1 Navigation

.2 Cargo handling and stowage

.3 Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board

.4 Marine engineering

.5 Electrical, electronic and control engineering

.6 Maintenance and repair

.7 Radiocommunications

at the following levels of responsibility:

.1 Management level

.2 Operational level

.3 Support level

Functions and levels of responsibility are identified by subtitle in the tables of standards of competence given in Chapters II, III and IV of this Part. The scope of the function at the level of responsibility stated in a subtitle is defined by the abilities listed under it in column 1 of the table. The meaning of "function" and "level of responsibility" is defined in general terms in Section A-I/1 below.

3 The numbering of the Sections of this Part corresponds with the numbering of the Regulations contained in the Annex to the STCW Convention. The text of the sections may be divided into numbered parts and paragraphs, but such numbering is unique to that text alone.

CHAPTER I

STANDARDS REGARDING GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section A-I/1

Definitions and clarifications

1 The definitions and clarifications contained in Article II and Regulation I/1 apply equally to the terms used in Parts A and B of this Code. In addition, the following supplementary definitions apply only to this Code;

.1 "Standard of competence" means the level of proficiency to be achieved for the proper performance of functions on board ship in accordance with the internationally agreed criteria as set forth herein and incorporating prescribed standards or levels of knowledge, understanding and demonstrated skill;

.2 "Management level" means the level of responsibility associated with:

.2.1 serving as master, chief mate, chief engineer officer or second engineer officer on board a seagoing ship, and

.2.2 ensuring that all functions within the designated area of responsibility are properly performed;

.3 "Operational level" means the level of responsibility associated with:

.3.1 serving as officer in charge of a navigational or engineering watch or as designated duty engineer for periodically unmanned machinery spaces or as radio operator on board a seagoing ship, and

.3.2 maintaining direct control over the performance of all functions within the designated area of responsibility in accordance with proper procedures and under the direction of an individual serving in the management level for that area of responsibility;

.4 "Support level" means the level of responsibility associated with performing assigned tasks, duties or responsibilities on board a seagoing ship under the direction of an individual serving in the operational or management level;

.5 "Evaluation criteria" are the entries appearing in column 4 of the "Specifications of Minimum Standards of Competence" tables in Part A and provide the means for an assessor to judge whether or not a candidate can perform the related tasks, duties and responsibilities; and

.6 "Independent evaluation" means an evaluation by suitably qualified persons, independent of, or external to, the unit or activity being evaluated, to verify that the administrative and operational procedures at all levels are managed, organized, undertaken and monitored internally in order to ensure their fitness for purpose and achievement of stated objectives.

Section A-I/2

Certificates and endorsements

1 Where, as provided in Regulation I/2, paragraph 4, the endorsement required by Article VI of the Convention is incorporated in the wording of the certificate itself, the certificate shall be issued in the format shown hereunder, provided that the words "or until the date of expiry of any extension of the validity of this certificate as may be shown overleaf" appearing on the front of the form and the provisions for recording extension of the validity appearing on the back of the form shall be omitted where the certificate is required to be replaced upon its expiry. Guidance on completion of the form is contained in Section B-I/2 of this Code.

____________________

(Official seal)

(Country)

CERTIFICATE ISSUED UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS, 1978, AS AMENDED IN 1995

The Government of .................................... certifies that ........................................... has been found duly qualified in accordance with the provisions of Regulation ........... of the above Convention, as amended, and has been found competent to perform the following functions, at the levels specified, subject to any limitations indicated until .................. or until the date of expiry of any extension of the validity of this certificate as may be shown overleaf:

FunctionLevel Limitations applying (if any)

The lawful holder of this certificate may serve in the following capacity or capacities specified in the applicable safe manning requirements of the Administration:

CapacityLimitations applying (if any)

Certificate No. ........................ issued on ....................................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Name of duly authorized official

The original of this certificate must be kept available in accordance with Regulation I/2, paragraph 9 of the Convention while serving on a ship.

Date of birth of the holder of the certificate

Signature of the holder of the certificate Photograph of the holder of the certificate

The validity of this certificate is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ....................

Name of duly authorized official The validity of this certificate is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ....................

Name of duly authorized official

2 Except as provided in paragraph 1, the form used to attest the issue of a certificate shall be as shown hereunder, provided that the words "or until the date of expiry of any extension of the validity of this endorsement as may be shown overleaf" appearing on the front of the form and the provisions for recording extension of the validity appearing on the back of the form shall be omitted where the endorsement is required to be replaced upon its expiry. Guidance on completion of the form is contained in Section B-I/2 of this Code.

____________________

(Official seal)

(Country)

ENDORSEMENT ATTESTING THE ISSUE OF A CERTIFICATE UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS, 1978, AS AMENDED IN 1995

The Government of .................................... certifies that certificate No. .............. has been issued to .................................................. who has been found duly qualified in accordance with the provisions of Regulation ........... of the above Convention, as amended, and has been found competent to perform the following functions, at the levels specified, subject to any limitations indicated until .................. or until the date of expiry of any extension of the validity of this endorsement as may be shown overleaf:

FunctionLevel Limitations applying (if any)

The lawful holder of this endorsement may serve in the following capacity or capacities specified in the applicable safe manning requirements of the Administration:

CapacityLimitations applying (if any)

Endorsement No. ........................ issued on ....................................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Name of duly authorized official

The original of this endorsement must be kept available in accordance with Regulation I/2, paragraph 9 of the Convention while serving on a ship.

Date of birth of the holder of the certificate

Signature of the holder of the certificate

Photograph of the holder of the certificate

The validity of this endorsement is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ....................

Name of duly authorized official The validity of this endorsement is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ....................

Name of duly authorized official

3 The form used to attest the recognition of a certificate shall be shown hereunder, except that the words "or until the date of expiry of any extension of the validity of this endorsement as may be shown overleaf" appearing on the front of the form and the provisions for recording extension of the validity appearing on the back of the form shall be omitted where the endorsement is required to be replaced upon its expiry. Guidance on completion of the form is contained in Section B-I/2 of this Code.

____________________

(Official seal)

(Country)

ENDORSEMENT ATTESTING THE RECOGNITION OF A CERTIFICATE UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS, 1978, AS AMENDED IN 1995

The Government of .................................... certifies that certificate No. .............. issued to ............................................ by or on behalf of the Government of ........................ is duly recognized in accordance with the provisions of Regulation I/10 of the above Convention, as amended, and the lawful holder is authorized to perform the following functions at the levels specified, subject to any limitations indicated until .................. or until the date of expiry of any extension of the validity of this endorsement as may be shown overleaf:

FunctionLevel Limitations applying (if any)

The lawful holder of this endorsement may serve in the following capacity or capacities specified in the applicable safe manning requirements of the Administration:

CapacityLimitations applying (if any)

Endorsement No. ........................ issued on ....................................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Name of duly authorized official

The original of this endorsement must be kept available in accordance with Regulation I/2, paragraph 9 of the Convention while serving on a ship.

Date of birth of the holder of the certificate

Signature of the holder of the certificate Photograph of the holder of the certificate

The validity of this endorsement is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ....................

Name of duly authorized official The validity of this endorsement is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ....................

Name of duly authorized official

4 In using formats which may be different from those set forth in this Section, pursuant to Regulation I/2, paragraph 8, Parties shall ensure that in all cases:

.1 all information relating to the identity and personal description of the holder, including name, date of birth, photograph and signature, along with the date on which the document was issued, shall be displayed on the same side of the documents; and

.2 all information relating to the capacity or capacities in which the holder is entitled to serve, in accordance with the applicable safe manning requirements of the Administration, as well as any limitations, shall be prominently displayed and easily identified.

Section A-I/3

Principles governing near-coastal voyages

(No provisions)

Section A-I/4

Control procedures

1 The assessment procedure provided for in Regulation I/4, paragraph 1.3, resulting from any of the occurrences mentioned therein shall take the form of a verification that members of the crew who are required to be competent do in fact possess the necessary skills related to the occurrence.

2 It shall be borne in mind when making this assessment that on-board procedures are relevant to the International Safety Management (ISM) Code and that the provisions of this Convention are confined to the competence to safely execute those procedures.

3 Control procedures under this Convention shall be confined to the standards of competence of the individual seafarers on board and their skills related to watchkeeping as defined in Part A of this Code. On-board assessment of competency shall commence with verification of the certificates of the seafarers.

4 Notwithstanding verification of the certificate, the assessment under Regulation I/4, paragraph 1.3 can require the seafarer to demonstrate the related competency at the place of duty. Such demonstration may include verification that operational requirements in respect of watchkeeping standards have been met and that there is a proper response to emergency situations within the seafarer's level of competence.

5 In the assessment, only the methods for demonstrating competence together with the criteria for its evaluation and the scope of the standards given in Part A of this Code shall be used.

Section A-I/5

National provisions

The provisions of Regulation I/5 shall not be interpreted as preventing the allocation of tasks for training under supervision or in cases of force majeure.

Section A-I/6

Training and assessment

1 Each Party shall ensure that all training and assessment of seafarers for certification under the Convention is:

.1 structured in accordance with written programs, including such methods and media of delivery, procedures, and course material as are necessary to achieve the prescribed standard of competence; and

.2 conducted, monitored, evaluated and supported by persons qualified in accordance with paragraphs 4, 5 and 6.

2 Persons conducting in-service training or assessment on board ship shall only do so when such training or assessment will not adversely affect the normal operation of the ship and they can dedicate their time and attention to training or assessment.

Qualifications of instructors, supervisors and assessors

3 Each Party shall ensure that instructors, supervisors and assessors are appropriately qualified for the particular types and levels of training or assessment of competence of seafarers either on board or ashore, as required under the Convention, in accordance with the provisions of this Section.

In-service training

4 Any person conducting in-service training of a seafarer, either on board or ashore, which is intended to be used in qualifying for certification under the Convention, shall:

.1 have an appreciation of the training program and an understanding of the specific training objectives for the particular type of training being conducted;

.2 be qualified in the task for which training is being conducted; and

.3 if conducting training using a simulator:

.3.1 have received appropriate guidance in instructional techniques involving the use of simulators, and

.3.2 have gained practical operational experience on the particular type of simulator being used.

5 Any person responsible for the supervision of in-service training of a seafarer intended to be used in qualifying for certification under the Convention shall have a full understanding of the training program and the specific objectives for each type of training being conducted.

Assessment of competence

6 Any person conducting in-service assessment of competence of a seafarer, either on board or ashore, which is intended to be used in qualifying for certification under the Convention, shall:

.1 have an appropriate level of knowledge and understanding of the competence to be assessed;

.2 be qualified in the task for which the assessment is being made;

.3 have received appropriate guidance in assessment methods and practice;

.4 have gained practical assessment experience; and

.5 if conducting assessment involving the use of simulators, have gained practical assessment experience on the particular type of simulator under the supervision and to the satisfaction of an experienced assessor.

Training and assessment within an institution

7 Each Party which recognizes a course of training, a training institution, or a qualification granted by a training institution, as part of its requirements for the issue of a certificate required under the Convention, shall ensure that the qualifications and experience of instructors and assessors are covered in the application of the quality standard provisions of Section A-I/8. Such qualification, experience and application of quality standards shall incorporate appropriate training in instructional techniques, and training and assessment methods and practice, and comply with all applicable requirements of paragraphs 4 to 6.

Section A-I/7

Communication of information

1 The information required by Regulation I/7, paragraph 1 shall be communicated to the Secretary-General in the formats prescribed in paragraph 2 hereunder.

2 By 1 August 1998, or within one calendar year of entry into force of Regulation I/7, whichever is later for the Party concerned, each Party shall report on the steps it has taken to give the Convention full and complete effect, which report shall include the following:

.1 the name, postal address and telephone and facsimile numbers and organization chart of the ministry, department or governmental agency responsible for administering the Convention;

.2 a concise explanation of the legal and administrative measures provided and taken to ensure compliance, particularly with Regulations I/6 and I/9;

.3 a clear statement of the education, training, examination, competency assessment and certification policies adopted;

.4 a concise summary of the courses, training programs, examinations and assessments provided for each certificate issued pursuant to the Convention;

.5 a concise outline of the procedures followed to authorize, accredit or approve training and examinations, medical fitness and competency assessments, required by the Convention, the conditions attaching thereto, and a list of the authorizations, accreditations and approvals granted;

.6 a concise summary of the procedures followed in granting any dispensation under Article VIII of the Convention; and

.7 the results of the comparison carried out pursuant to Regulation I/11 and a concise outline of the refresher and upgrading training mandated.

3 Each Party shall, within six months of:

.1 retaining or adopting any equivalent education or training arrangements pursuant to Article IX, provide a full description of such arrangements;

.2 recognizing certificates issued by another Party, provide a report summarizing the measures taken to ensure compliance with Regulation I/10; and

.3 authorizing the employment of seafarers holding alternative certificates issued under Regulation VII/1 on ships entitled to fly its flag, provide the Secretary-General with a specimen copy of the type of safe manning documents issued to such ships.

4 Each Party shall report the results of each evaluation carried out pursuant to Regulation I/8, paragraph 2 within six months of its completion, which report shall describe the terms of reference of the evaluators, their qualifications and experience, the date and scope of the evaluation, the deficiencies found and the corrective measures recommended and carried out.

5 The Secretary-General shall maintain a list of competent persons approved by the Maritime Safety Committee, including competent persons made available or recommended by the Parties, who may be called upon to assist in the preparation of the report required by Regulation I/7, paragraph 2. These persons shall ordinarily be available during relevant sessions of the Maritime Safety Committee or its subsidiary bodies, but need not conduct their work solely during such sessions.

6 In relation to Regulation I/7, paragraph 2, the competent persons shall be knowledgeable of the requirements of the Convention and at least one of them shall have knowledge of the system of training and certification of the Party concerned.

7 Any meeting of the competent persons shall:

.1 be held at the discretion of the Secretary-General;

.2 be comprised of an odd number of members, ordinarily not to exceed 5 persons;

.3 appoint its own chairman; and

.4 provide the Secretary-General with the agreed opinion of its members, or if no agreement is reached, with both the majority and minority views.

8 The competent persons shall, on a confidential basis, express their views in writing on:

.1 a comparison of the facts reported in the information communicated to the Secretary-General by the Party, with all relevant requirements of the Convention;

.2 the report of any relevant evaluation submitted under Regulation I/8, paragraph 3; and

.3 any additional information provided by the Party.

9 In preparing the report to the Maritime Safety Committee required by Regulation I/7, paragraph 2, the Secretary-General shall:

.1 solicit and take into account the views expressed by competent persons selected from the list established pursuant to paragraph 5;

.2 seek clarification when necessary from the Party of any matter related to the information provided under Regulation I/7, paragraph 1; and

.3 identify any area in which the Party may have requested assistance to implement the Convention.

10 The Party concerned shall be informed of the arrangements for the meetings of competent persons, and its representatives shall be entitled to be present to clarify any matter related to the information provided pursuant to Regulation I/7, paragraph 1.

11 If the Secretary-General is not in a position to submit the report called for by paragraph 2 of Regulation I/7, the Party concerned may request the Maritime Safety Committee to take the action contemplated by paragraph 3 of Regulation I/7, taking into account the information submitted pursuant to this Section and the views expressed in accordance with paragraphs 7 and 8.

Section A-I/8

Quality standards

National objectives and quality standards

1 Each Party shall ensure that the education and training objectives and related standards of competence to be achieved are clearly defined and identify the levels of knowledge, understanding and skills appropriate to the examinations and assessments required under the Convention. The objectives and related quality standards may be specified separately for different courses and training programs and shall cover the administration of the certification system.

2 The field of application of the quality standards shall cover the administration of the certification system, all training courses and programs, examinations and assessments carried out by or under the authority of a Party and the qualifications and experience required of instructors and assessors, having regard to the policies, systems, controls and internal quality assurance reviews established to ensure achievement of the defined objectives.

3 Each Party shall ensure that an independent evaluation of the knowledge, understanding, skills and competence acquisition and assessment activities, and of the administration of the certification system, are conducted at intervals of not more than five years in order to verify that:

.1 all internal management control and monitoring measures and follow-up actions comply with planned arrangements and documented procedures and are effective in ensuring achievement of the defined objectives;

.2 the results of each independent evaluation are documented and brought to the attention of those responsible for the area evaluated; and

.3 timely action is taken to correct deficiencies.

4 The report of the independent evaluation required by paragraph 3 of Regulation I/8 shall include the terms of reference for the evaluation and the qualifications and experience of the evaluators.

Section A-I/9

Medical standards - Issue and registration of certificates

(No provisions)

Section A-I/10

Recognition of certificates

1 The provisions of Regulation I/10, paragraph 4 regarding the non-recognition of certificates issued by a non-Party shall not be construed as preventing a Party, when issuing its own certificate, from accepting seagoing service, education and training acquired under the authority of a non-Party, provided the Party complies with Regulation I/9 in issuing each such certificate, and ensures that the requirements of the Convention relating to seagoing service, education, training and competence are complied with.

2 Where an Administration which has recognized a certificate withdraws its endorsement of recognition for disciplinary reasons, the Administration shall inform the Party that issued the certificate of the circumstances.

Section A-I/11

Revalidation of certificates

Professional competence

1 Continued professional competence as required under Regulation I/11, shall be established by:

.1 approved seagoing service performing functions appropriate to the certificate held for a period of at least one year in total during the preceding five years; or

.2 having performed functions considered to be equivalent to the seagoing service required in paragraph 1.1; or

.3 one of the following

.3.1 passing an approved test, or

.3.2 successfully completing an approved course or courses, or

.3.3 having completed approved seagoing service performing functions appropriate to the certificate held for a period of not less than three months in a supernumerary capacity, or in a lower officer rank than that for which the certificate held is valid immediately prior to taking up the rank for which it is valid.

2 The refresher and updating courses required by Regulation I/11 shall be approved and include changes in relevant national and international regulations concerning the safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine environment and take account of any updating of the standard of competence concerned.

Section A-I/12

Standards governing the use of simulators

PART 1 - PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

General performance standards for simulators used in training

1 Each Party shall ensure that any simulator used for mandatory simulator-based training shall: .1 be suitable for the selected objectives and training tasks;

.2 be capable of simulating the operating capabilities of shipboard equipment concerned, to a level of physical realism appropriate to training objectives, and include the capabilities, limitations and possible errors of such equipment;

.3 have sufficient behavioural realism to allow a trainee to acquire the skills appropriate to the training objectives;

.4 provide a controlled operating environment, capable of producing a variety of conditions which may include emergency, hazardous or unusual situations relevant to the training objectives;

.5 provide an interface through which a trainee can interact with the equipment, the simulated environment and, as appropriate, the instructor; and

.6 permit an instructor to control, monitor and record exercises for the effective debriefing of trainees.

General performance standards for simulators used in assessment of competence

2 Each Party shall ensure that any simulator used for the assessment of competence required under the Convention or for any demonstration of continued proficiency so required, shall:

.1 be capable of satisfying the specified assessment objectives;

.2 be capable of simulating the operational capabilities of the shipboard equipment concerned to a level of physical realism appropriate to the assessment objectives, and include the capabilities, limitations and possible errors of such equipment;

.3 have sufficient behavioural realism to allow a candidate to exhibit the skills appropriate to the assessment objectives;

.4 provide an interface through which a candidate can interact with the equipment and simulated environment;

.5 provide a controlled operating environment, capable of producing a variety of conditions, which may include emergency, hazardous or unusual situations relevant to assessment objectives; and

.6 permit an assessor to control, monitor and record exercises for the effective assessment of the performance of candidates.

Additional performance standards

3 In addition to meeting the basic requirements set out in paragraphs 1 and 2, simulation equipment to which this Section applies shall meet the performance standards given hereunder in accordance with their specific type.

Radar simulation

4 Radar simulation equipment shall be capable of simulating the operational capabilities of navigational radar equipment which meets all applicable performance standards adopted by the Organization and incorporate facilities to:

.1 operate in the stabilized relative motion mode and sea and ground stabilized true motion modes;

.2 model weather, tidal streams, current, shadow sectors, spurious echoes and other propagation effects, and generate coastlines, navigational buoys and search and rescue transponders; and

.3 create a real-time operating environment incorporating at least two own ship stations with ability to change own ship's course and speed, and include parameters for at least 20 target ships and appropriate communication facilities.

Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) simulation

5 ARPA simulation equipment shall be capable of simulating the operational capabilities of ARPAs which meet all applicable performance standards adopted by the Organization, and shall incorporate the facilities for:

.1 manual and automatic target acquisition;

.2 past track information;

.3 use of exclusion areas;

.4 vector/graphic time-scale and data display; and

.5 trial manoeuvres.

PART 2 - OTHER PROVISIONS

Simulator training objectives

6 Each Party shall ensure that the aims and objectives of simulator-based training are defined within an overall training program and that specific training objectives and tasks are selected so as to relate as closely as possible to shipboard tasks and practices.

Training procedures

7 In conducting mandatory simulator-based training, instructors shall ensure that:

.1 trainees are adequately briefed beforehand on the exercise objectives and tasks and are given sufficient planning time before the exercise starts;

.2 trainees have adequate familiarization time on the simulator and with its equipment before any training or assessment exercise commences;

.3 guidance given and exercise stimuli are appropriate to the selected exercise objectives and tasks and to the level of trainee experience;

.4 exercises are effectively monitored, supported as appropriate by audio and visual observation of trainee activity and pre and post exercise evaluation reports;

.5 trainees are effectively debriefed to ensure that training objectives have been met and that operational skills demonstrated are of an acceptable standard;

.6 the use of peer assessment during debriefing is encouraged; and

.7 simulator exercises are designed and tested so as to ensure their suitability for the specified training objectives.

Assessment procedures

8 Where simulators are used to assess the ability of candidates to demonstrate levels of competency, assessors shall ensure that:

.1 performance criteria are identified clearly and explicitly and are valid and available to the candidates;

.2 assessment criteria are established clearly and are explicit to ensure reliability and uniformity of assessment and to optimise objective measurement and evaluation, so that subjective judgements are kept to the minimum;

.3 candidates are briefed clearly on the tasks and/or skills to be assessed and on the tasks and performance criteria by which their competency will be determined;

.4 assessment of performance takes into account normal operating procedures and any behavioural interaction with other candidates on the simulator or simulator staff;

.5 scoring or grading methods to assess performance are used with caution until they have been validated; and

.6 the prime criterion is that a candidate demonstrates the ability to carry out a task safely and effectively to the satisfaction of the assessor.

Qualifications of instructors and assessors

9 Each Party shall ensure that instructors and assessors are appropriately qualified and experienced for the particular types and levels of training and corresponding assessment of competence as specified in Regulation I/6 and Section A-I/6.

Section A-I/13

Conduct of trials

(No provisions)

Section A-I/14

Responsibilities of companies

1 Companies, masters and crew members each have responsibility for ensuring that the obligations set out in this Section are given full and complete effect and that such other measures as may be necessary are taken to ensure that each crew member can make a knowledgeable and informed contribution to the safe operation of the ship.

2 The company shall provide written instructions to the master of each ship to which the Convention applies, setting forth the policies and the procedures to be followed to ensure that all seafarers who are newly employed on board the ship are given a reasonable opportunity to become familiar with the shipboard equipment, operating procedures and other arrangements needed for the proper performance of their duties before being assigned to those duties. Such policies and procedures shall include:

.1 allocation of a reasonable period of time during which each newly employed seafarer will have an opportunity to become acquainted with:

.1.1 the specific equipment the seafarer will be using or operating, and

.1.2 ship specific watchkeeping, safety, environmental protection and emergency procedures and arrangements the seafarer needs to know to perform the assigned duties properly; and

.2 designation of a knowledgeable crew member who will be responsible for ensuring that an opportunity is provided to each newly employed seafarer to receive essential information in a language the seafarer understands.

Section A-I/15

Transitional provisions

(No provisions)

CHAPTER II

STANDARDS REGARDING THE MASTER AND DECK

DEPARTMENT

Section A-II/1

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more

Standard of competence

1 Every candidate for certification shall:

.1 be required to demonstrate the competence to undertake at operational level, the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-II/1;

.2 at least hold an appropriate certificate for performing VHF radiocommunications in accordance with the requirements of the Radio Regulations; and

.3 if designated to have primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents, hold an appropriate certificate issued or recognized under the provisions of the Radio Regulations.

2 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification is listed in column 2 of table A-II/1.

3 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-II/1 shall be sufficient for officers of the watch to carry out their watchkeeping duties.

4 Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall be based on Section A-VIII/1, Part 3-1 - Basic principles to be observed in keeping a navigational watch and shall also take into account the relevant requirements of this Part and the guidance given in Part B of this Code.

5 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-II/1.

On-board training

6 Every candidate for certification as officer in charge of a navigational watch of ships of 500 gross tonnage or more whose seagoing service, in accordance with paragraph 2.2 of Regulation II/1, forms part of a training program approved as meeting the requirements of this Section shall follow an approved program of on-board training which:

.1 ensures that during the required period of seagoing service the candidate receives systematic practical training and experience in the tasks, duties and responsibilities of an officer in charge of a navigational watch, taking into account the guidance given in Section B-II/1 of this Code;

.2 is closely supervised and monitored by qualified officers aboard the ships in which the approved seagoing service is performed; and

.3 is adequately documented in a training record book or similar document.

Near-coastal voyages

7 The following subjects may be omitted from those listed in column 2 of table A-II/1 for issue of restricted certificates for service on near-coastal voyages, bearing in mind the safety of all ships which may be operating in the same waters:

.1 celestial navigation; and

.2 those electronic systems of position fixing and navigation that do not cover the waters for which the certificate is to be valid.

TABLE A-II/1

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE FOR OFFICERS IN CHARGE OF A NAVIGATIONAL WATCH ON SHIPS OF 500 GROSS TONNAGE OR MORE

Function: Navigation at the operational level

Column 1 Column 2Column 3 Column 4 Competence Knowledge,Methods for Criteria for understanding and demonstrating evaluating proficiencycompetence competence

Plan and conduct Celestial Navigation Examination andThe information a passage and assessment ofobtained from determineAbility to use evidence obtainednavigational charts position celestial bodies tofrom one or more and publications is determine the ship's of the following:relevant, positioninterpreted .1 approvedcorrectly and Terrestrial andin-service properly applied. Coastal Navigation experience All potential navigational Ability to determine .2 approvedhazards are the ship's position accurately by use of: training identified ship experience .1 landmarksThe primary method .3 approvedof fixing the .2 aids to simulatorship's position is navigation, the most including training,appropriate to the lighthouses, beacons where appropriateprevailing and buoys circumstances and .4 approvedconditions .3 dead reckoning, laboratory taking into accountequipmentThe position is winds, tides, determined within currents and training the limits of estimated speed acceptable instrument/system errors

The reliability of the information obtained from the primary method of position fixing is checked at appropriate intervals

Calculations and measurements of navigational information are accurate

Thorough knowledge using: chart The charts selected of and ability tocatalogues,are the largest use navigational charts,scale suitable for charts and navigational the area of publications, such publications,navigation and as sailing radio navigational charts and directions, tide warnings, sextant, publications are tables, notices to azimuth mirror,corrected in mariners, radioelectronic accordance with the navigational navigation latest information warnings and ships'equipment, echoavailable routeing information sounding equipment, compass Note: ECDIS systems are considered to be included under the term "charts"

Electronic systemsPerformance checks of position fixingand tests to and navigationnavigation systems comply with Ability to determinemanufacturer's the ship's position recommendations and by use of electronicgood navigational navigational aids practice

Echo sounders

Ability to operate the equipment and apply the information correctly

Compass - magnetic and gyro

Knowledge of the principles of magnetic and gyro compasses

Ability to determineErrors in magnetic errors of the and gyro compasses magnetic and gyro are determined and compasses, usingcorrectly applied celestial and to courses and terrestrial means,bearings and to allow for such errors

Steering control systems

Knowledge ofThe selection of steering controlthe mode of systems, operationalsteering is the procedures andmost suitable for change-over fromthe prevailing manual to automatic weather, sea and control and traffic conditions vice-versa. and intended Adjustment of manoeuvres controls for optimum performance

Meteorology

Ability to use andMeasurements and interpret observations of information obtainedweather conditions from shipborneare accurate and meteorologicalappropriate to the instruments passage

Knowledge of theMeteorological characteristics ofinformation is the various weather correctly systems, reportinginterpreted and procedures andapplied recording systems

Ability to apply the meteorological information available

Maintain a safe Watchkeeping Examination andThe conduct, hand navigationalassessment ofover and relief of watch evidence obtainedthe watch conforms Thorough knowledge of the content,form one or more with accepted application andof the following:principles and intent of the procedures International.1 approved Regulations forin-service A proper lookout is Preventing experience maintained at all Collisions at Sea times and in such a .2 approvedway as to conform Thorough knowledge training to accepted of the basicprinciples and principles to be ship experienceprocedures observed in keeping a navigational watch .3 approvedLights, shapes and simulatorsound signals Thorough knowledge training,conform with the of effective bridge requirements team work procedures where appropriatecontained in the International The use of routeing.4 approvedRegulations for in accordance with laboratory Preventing the GeneralequipmentCollisions at Sea Provisions on Ships' training and are correctly Routeingrecognized The frequency and extent of monitoring of traffic, the ship and the environment conform with accepted principles and procedures

A proper record is maintained of the movements and activities relating to the navigation of the ship

Responsibility for the safety of navigation is clearly defined at all times, including periods when the master is on the bridge and while under pilotage

Use of radar and Radar Navigation Assessment ofInformation ARPA to maintainevidence obtainedobtained from radar safety ofKnowledge of the from approvedand ARPA is navigation fundamentals ofradar simulatorcorrectly radar and automaticand ARPA simulator interpreted and Note:radar plotting aids training analysed taking Training (ARPA) plus in-serviceinto account the limitations of the and assessment inAbility to operate experience equipment and the use of ARPAand to interpret andprevailing is not requiredanalyse information circumstances and for those whoobtained from radar,conditions serve exclusivelyincluding the on ships not following:Action taken to fitted with ARPA.avoid a close This limitationPerformance encounter or shall be including:collision with reflected in the other vessels is in endorsement.1 factors affectingaccordance with the issued to theperformance and International seafarer accuracyRegulations for concerned. Preventing .2 setting up and Collisions at Sea maintaining displays Decisions to amend .3 detection of course and/or speed misrepresentation ofare both timely and information, falsein accordance with echoes, sea return, accepted navigation etc, racons and practice SARTs Adjustments made to Use including:the ship's course and speed maintain .1 range andsafety of bearing; course and navigation speed of other ships; time and Communication is distance of closest clear, concise and approach of acknowledged at all crossing, meeting times in a overtaking shipsseamanlike manner

.2 identification ofManoeuvring signals critical echoes;are made at the detecting course andappropriate time speed changes ofand are in other ships; effect accordance with the of changes in own International ship's course orRegulations for speed or both Preventing Collisions at Sea .3 application of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea

.4 plotting techniques and relative and true motion concepts

.5 parallel indexing

Principal types of ARPA, their display characteristics, performance standards and the dangers of over reliance on ARPA

Ability to operate and to interpret and analyse information obtained from ARPA, including:

.1 system performance and accuracy, tracking capabilities and limitations, and processing delays

.2 use of operational warnings and system tests

.3 methods of target acquisition and their limitations

.4 true and relative vectors, graphic representation of target information and danger areas

.5 deriving and analysing information, critical echoes, exclusion areas and trial manoeuvres

Respond to Emergency procedures Examination andThe type and scale emergencies assessment ofof the emergency is Precautions for theevidence obtainedpromptly identified protection and from one or more safety of passengers of the following:Initial actions in emergencyand, if situations .1 approvedappropriate, in-service manoeuvring of the Initial action to be experience ship are in taken following a accordance with collision or a .2 approvedcontingency plans grounding; initialand are appropriate damage assessment training to the urgency of and controlship experiencethe situation and nature of the Appreciation of the.3 approvedemergency procedures to be simulator followed for rescuing persons training, from the sea,where appropriate assisting a ship in distress, responding .4 practical to emergencies which arise in port training

Respond to a Search and rescueExamination andThe distress or distress signal assessment ofemergency signal is at sea Knowledge of the evidence obtainedimmediately contents of the IMOfrom practical recognized Merchant Ship Search instruction or and Rescue Manualapproved simulator Contingency plans (MERSAR) training,and instructions in where appropriatestanding orders are implemented and complied with

Use the Standard English language Examination andEnglish language Marineassessment ofnavigational Navigational Adequate knowledge evidence obtainedpublications and Vocabulary asof the English from practical messages relevant replaced by thelanguage to enable instructionto the safety of IMO Standard the officer to usethe ship are Marine charts and othercorrectly Communicationnauticalinterpreted or Phrases and usepublications, todrafted English in understand written and oral meteorologicalCommunications are form information and clear and messages concerning understood ship's safety and operation, to communicate with other ships and coast stations and to perform the officer's duties also with a multi-lingual crew, including the ability to use and understand the Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary as replaced by the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases

Transmit and Visual signallingAssessment ofCommunications receive evidence obtainedwithin the information by Ability to transmitfrom practical operator's area of visual signallingand receive signalsinstructionresponsibility are by Morse lightconsistently successful Ability to use the International Code of Signals

Manoeuvre theShip manoeuvring and Examination andSafe operating ship handling assessment oflimits of ship evidence obtainedpropulsion, Knowledge of:from one or more steering and power of the following:systems are not .1 the effects of exceeded in normal deadweight, draught, .1 approvedmanoeuvres trim, speed andin-service under-keel clearance experience Adjustments made to on turning circlesthe ship's course and stopping .2 approvedand speed maintain distances safety of training navigation .2 the effects ofship experience wind and current on ship handling.3 approved simulator .3 manoeuvres and procedures for the training, rescue of person where appropriate overboard .4 approved .4 squat, shallow water and similar training effectson a manned scale ship model where .5 proper procedures appropriate for anchoring and mooring

Function: Cargo handling and stowage at the operational level

Monitor theCargo handling and Examination andCargo operations loading, stowage,stowageassessment ofare carried out in securing andevidence obtainedaccordance with the unloading of Cargo handling,from one or more cargo plan or other cargoes and theirstowage and securing of the following:documents and care during theestablished safety voyage Knowledge of the .1 approvedrules/regulations, effect of cargoin-service equipment operating including heavyexperience instructions and lifts on theshipboard stowage seaworthiness and.2 approvedlimitations stability of the ship training The handling of ship experiencedangerous, Knowledge of safe hazardous and handling, stowage.3 approvedharmful cargoes and securing ofsimulatorcomplies with cargoes including international dangerous, hazardous training,regulations and and harmful cargoeswhere appropriaterecognized and their effect on standards and codes the safety of lifeof safe practice and of the ship

Ensure compliancePrevention ofExamination andProcedures for with pollution pollution of the assessment ofmonitoring prevention marine environment evidence obtainedshipboard requirements and anti-pollution from one or more operations and procedures of the following:ensuring compliance with MARPOL Knowledge of the .1 approvedrequirements are precautions to bein-service fully observed taken to prevent experience pollution of the marine environment .2 approved

Anti-pollution training procedures and all ship experience associated equipment

Maintain Ship stability Examination andThe stability seaworthiness ofassessment ofconditions comply the ship Working knowledgeevidence obtainedwith the IMO intact and application of from one or more stability criteria stability, trim andof the following:under all stress tables,conditions of diagrams and stress.1 approvedloading calculatingin-service equipmentexperience Actions to ensure and maintain the Understanding of .2 approvedwatertight fundamental actions integrity of the to be taken in the training ship are in event of partial ship experienceaccordance with loss of intactacceptance practice buoyancy .3 approved simulator Understanding of the fundamentals of training, watertight integrity where appropriate

Ship construction.4 approved laboratory General knowledge of equipment the principal structural members training of a ship and the proper names for the various parts

Prevent, control Fire prevention andAssessment ofThe type and scale and fight firesfire-fightingevidence obtainedof the problem is on board appliances from approvedpromptly identified fire-fightingand initial actions Knowledge of fire conform with the prevention training emergency procedure and experience asand contingency Ability to organizeset out in Section plans for the ship fire drillsA-VI/3 Evacuation, Knowledge of classesemergency shut-down and chemistry ofand isolation fireprocedures are appropriate to the Knowledge ofnature of the fire-fighting emergency and are systems implemented promptly Knowledge of action to be taken in theThe order of event of fire,priority, and the including fires levels and involving oil timescales of systems making reports and informing personnel on board, are relevant to the nature of the emergency and reflect the urgency of the problem

OperateLife-savingAssessment ofActions in life-saving evidence obtainedresponding to appliances Ability to organizefrom approvedabandon ship and abandon ship drills survival situations and knowledge of the training are appropriate to operation of and experience asthe prevailing survival craft and set out in Section circumstances and rescue boats, theirA-VI/2, paragraphs conditions and launching appliances 1 to 4 comply with and arrangements, accepted safety and their equipment practices and including radio standards life-saving appliances, satellite EPIRBs, SARTs, immersion suits and thermal protective aids.

Knowledge of survival at sea techniques

Apply medicalMedical aidAssessment ofThe identification first aid onevidence obtainedof probable cause, board ship Practicalfrom approvednature and extent application ofof injuries or medical guides and training conditions is advice by radio, as set out inprompt and including theSection A-VI/4,treatment minimizes ability to takeparagraphs 1 to 3immediate threat to effective actionlife based on such knowledge in the case of accidents or illnesses that are likely to occur on board ship

MonitorBasic workingAssessment ofLegislative compliance withknowledge of the evidence obtainedrequirements legislativerelevant IMO from examination relating to safety requirements Conventionsor approvedof life at sea and concerning safety ofprotection of the life at sea and training marine environment protection of the are correctly marine environmentidentified

TABLE A-II/2

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE FOR MASTERS AND CHIEF MATES ON SHIPS OF 500 GROSS TONNAGE OR MORE

Function: Navigation at the management level

Column 1Column 2Column 3Column 4 Competence Knowledge, Methods for Criteria for understanding and demonstrating evaluating proficiency competencecompetence

Plan a voyage andVoyage planning and Examination and The equipment, conduct navigation navigation for allassessment of charts and nautical conditions by evidence obtained publications acceptable methodsfrom one or more of required for the of plotting ocean the following:voyage are tracks taking intoenumerated and account, eg:.1 approved appropriate to the in-servicesafe conduct of the .1 restricted experiencevoyage waters .2 approved The reasons for the .2 meteorological simulator planned route are conditionssupported by facts training, and statistical data .3 icewhere appropriate obtained from relevant sources and .4 restricted .3 approved publications visibilitylaboratory equipment Positions, courses, .5 trafficdistances and time separation schemes training calculations are correct within .6 areas of using: chartaccepted accuracy extensive tidal catalogues, charts, standards for effects nauticalnavigational publications andequipment Routeing in ship particulars accordance with the All potential General Principlesnavigational hazards on Ships' Routeingare accurately identified Reporting in accordance with the Guidelines and Criteria for Ship Reporting Systems

Determine position PositionExamination and The primary method and the accuracy ofdetermination inassessment of chosen for fixing resultant position all conditions: evidence obtained the ship's position fix by any means from one or more of is the most .1 by celestial the following:appropriate to the observationsprevailing .1 approved circumstances and .2 by terrestrial in-serviceconditions observations, experience including the The fix obtained by ability to use.2 approved celestial appropriate charts, simulator observations is notices to mariners within accepted and other training, accuracy levels publications to where appropriate assess the accuracy The fix obtained by of the resulting.3 approved terrestrial position fixlaboratoryobservations is equipment within accepted .3 using modern accuracy levels electronic training navigational aids,The accuracy of the with specific using:resulting fix is knowledge of theirproperly assessed operating .1 charts, nautical principles, almanac, plotting The fix obtained by limitations,sheets, the use of sources of error, chronometer,electronic detection ofsextant and a navigational aids is misrepresentation calculatorwithin the accuracy of information andstandards of the methods of.2 charts,systems in use. The correction to navigationalpossible errors obtain accurate publications andaffecting the position fixing instruments accuracy of the (azimuth mirror,resulting position sextant, log, are stated and sounding equipment, methods of compass) andminimizing the manufacturers'effects of system manuals errors on the resulting position .3 radar, Decca,are properly applied Loran, satellite navigation systems and appropriate navigational charts and publications

Determine and allowAbility toExamination and The method and for compass errors determine and allow assessment of frequency of checks for errors of the evidence obtained for errors of magnetic andfrom one or more of magnetic and gyro-compassesthe following:gyro-compasses ensures accuracy of Knowledge of the.1 approved information principles of in-service magnetic andexperience gyro-compasses .2 approved An understanding of simulator systems under the control of the training, master gyro and a where appropriate knowledge of the operation and care.3 approved of the main types laboratory of gyro-compass equipment training

using: celestial observations, terrestrial bearings and comparison between magnetic and gyro-compasses

Coordinate search andA thoroughExamination and The plan for rescue operationsknowledge of andassessment of coordinating search ability to applyevidence obtained and rescue the proceduresfrom one or more of operations is in contained in thethe following:accordance with IMO Merchant Ship international Search and Rescue .1 approved guidelines and Manual (MERSAR) in-servicestandards experience Radiocommunications .2 approved are established and simulator correct training, communication procedures are where appropriate followed at all stages of the search .3 approved and rescue laboratoryoperations equipment training

using: relevant publications, charts, meteorological data, particulars of ships involved, radiocommunication equipment and other available facilities and one or more of the following:

.1 approved SAR training course

.2 approved simulator training, where appropriate

.3 approved laboratory equipment training

EstablishThorough knowledgeExamination and Watchkeeping watchkeeping of content, assessment of arrangements and application and evidence obtained arrangements and intent of the from one or more of procedures are procedures International the following:established and Regulations for maintained in Preventing.1 approved compliance with Collisions at Sea in-serviceinternational experienceregulations and Thorough knowledgeguidelines so as to of the content, .2 approved ensure the safety of application and simulator navigation, intent of the Basic protection of the Principles to be training, marine environment Observed in Keeping where appropriate and safety of the a Navigationalship and persons on Watch. Effectiveboard bridge teamwork procedures

Maintain safeAn appreciation ofAssessment of Information obtained navigation through system errors and evidence obtained from radar and ARPA the use of radar and thoroughfrom approved radar is correctly ARPA and modernunderstanding ofsimulator and ARPAinterpreted and navigation systems tothe operational simulator analysed taking into assist command aspects of modern account the decision-makingnavigational training limitations of the systems, includingequipment and Note: Training radar and ARPAprevailing and assessmentcircumstances and Blind pilotageconditions in the use of ARPA istechniques not required for Action taken to those who serveEvaluation of avoid a close exclusively on ships navigationalencounter or not fitted with ARPA.information derived collision with This limitation shallfrom all sources, another vessel is in be reflected in theincluding radar and accordance with the endorsement issued toARPA, in order to International the seafarer make and implementRegulations for concerned. command decisions Preventing for collision Collisions at Sea avoidance and for directing the safe navigation of the ship

The inter-relationship and optimum use of all navigational data available for conducting navigation

Forecast weather and Ability toExamination and The likely weather oceanographicunderstand andassessment of conditions predicted conditions interpret a evidence obtained for a determined synoptic chart andfrom one or more of period are based on to forecast areathe following:all available weather, taking information into account local.1 approved weather conditionsin-serviceActions taken to and information experiencemaintain safety of received by weather navigation minimize fax .2 approved any risk to safety laboratoryof the ship Knowledge of theequipment characteristics ofReasons for intended various weather training action are backed by systems, includingstatistical data and tropical revolvingobservations of the storms andactual weather avoidance of stormconditions centres and the dangerous quadrants

Knowledge of ocean current systems

Ability to calculate tidal conditions

Use all appropriate navigational publications on tides and currents

Respond to Precautions whenExamination and The type and scale navigational beaching a ship assessment of of any problem is emergenciesevidence obtained promptly identified Action to be takenfrom practicaland decisions and if grounding is instruction,actions minimize the imminent, and after in-serviceeffects of any grounding experience andmalfunction of the practical drills in ship's systems Refloating aemergency grounded ship withproceduresCommunications are and without effective and comply assistancewith established procedures Action to be taken if collision is Decisions and imminent andactions maximize following a safety of persons on collision orboard impairment of the watertight integrity of the hull by any cause

Assessment of damage control

Emergency steering

Emergency towing arrangements and towing procedures

Manoeuvre and handle Manoeuvring and Examination and All decisions a ship in allhandling a ship inassessment of concerning berthing conditions all conditions, evidence obtained and anchoring are including:from one or more of based on a proper the following:assessment of the .1 manoeuvres whenship's manoeuvring approaching pilot .1 approved and engine stations andin-servicecharacteristics and embarking orexperiencethe forces to be disembarking pilots expected while with due regard to.2 approved berthed alongside or weather, tide,simulator lying at anchor headreach and stopping distances training, While underway, a where appropriate full assessment is .2 handling ship in made of possible rivers, estuaries .3 approved mannedeffects of shallow and restrictedscale ship model, and restricted waters, havingwhere appropriate waters, ice, banks, regard to the tidal conditions, effects of current, passing ships and wind and restricted own ship's bow and water on helm stern wave so that responsethe ship can be safely manoeuvred .3 application of under various constant rate ofconditions of turn techniques loading and weather

.4 manoeuvring in shallow water, including the reduction in under-keel clearance caused by squat, rolling and pitching

.5 interaction between passing ships and between own ship and nearby banks (canal effect)

.6 berthing and unberthing under various conditions of wind, tide and current with and without tugs

.7 ship and tug interaction

.8 use of propulsion and manoeuvring systems

.9 choice of anchorage; anchoring with one or two anchors in limited anchorages and factors involved in determining the length of anchor cable to be used

.10 dragging anchor, clearing fouled anchors

.11 dry-docking, both with and without damage

.12 management and handling of ships in heavy weather, including assisting a ship or aircraft in distress; towing operations; means of keeping an unmanageable ship out of trough of the sea, lessening drift and use of oil

.13 precautions in manoeuvring to launch rescue boats or survival craft in bad weather

.14 methods of taking on board survivors from rescue boats and survival craft

.15 ability to determine the manoeuvring and propulsion characteristics of common types of ships with special reference to stopping distances and turning circles at various draughts and speeds

.16 importance of navigating at reduced speed to avoid damage caused by own ship's bow wave and stern wave

.17 practical measures to be taken when navigating in or near ice or in conditions of ice accumulation on board

.18 use of, and manoeuvring in and near, traffic separation schemes and in vessel traffic service (VTS) areas

Operate remote Operating Examination and Plant, auxiliary controls ofprinciples of assessment of machinery and propulsion plant and marine power plants evidence obtained equipment is engineering systemsfrom one or more of operated in and services Ships' auxiliarythe following:accordance with machinery technical .1 approved specifications and General knowledge in-servicewithin safe of marine experienceoperating limits at engineering terms all times .2 approved simulator training where appropriate

Function: Cargo handling and stowage at the management level

Plan and ensure safe Knowledge of andExamination and The frequency and loading, stowage,ability to applyassessment of extent of cargo securing, care duringrelevantevidence obtained condition monitoring the voyage and international from one or more of is appropriate to unloading of cargoes regulations, codesthe following:its nature and and standards prevailing concerning the safe .1 approved conditions handling, stowage,in-service securing andexperienceUnacceptable or transport ofunforeseen cargoes .2 approved variations in the simulator condition or Knowledge of thespecification of the effect on trim and training, cargo is promptly stability ofwhere appropriate recognized and cargoes and cargo remedial action is operationsusing: stability, immediately taken trim and stress and designed to Use of stabilitytables, diagramssafeguard the safety and trim diagrams and stressof the ship and and stresscalculating those on board calculating equipment equipment,Cargo operations are including automatic planned and executed data-based (ADB)in accordance with equipment and established knowledge ofprocedures and loading cargoes and legislative ballasting in order requirements to keep hull stress within acceptable Stowage and securing limitsof cargoes ensures that stability and Stowage and stress conditions securing of cargoes remain within safe on board ships, limits at all times including cargo during the voyage handling gear and securing and lashing equipment

Loading and unloading operations, with special regard to the transport of cargoes identified in the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing

General knowledge of tankers and tanker operations

Carriage of dangerousInternational Examination and Planned distribution cargoesregulations,assessment of of cargo is based on standards, codesevidence obtained reliable information and recommendations from one or more of and is in accordance on the carriage ofthe following:with established dangerous cargoes,guidelines and including the .1 approved legislative International in-servicerequirements Maritime Dangerousexperience Goods (IMDG) Code Information on and the Code of .2 Approved dangers, hazards and Safe Practice for simulator special requirements Solid Bulk Cargoesis recorded in a (BC Code) training format suitable for where appropriate easy reference in Carriage of the event of an dangerous,.3 approved incident hazardous and specialist harmful cargoes; precautions during training loading and unloading and care during the voyage

Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the management level

Control trim,Understanding ofExamination and Stability and stress stability and stress fundamental assessment of conditions are principles of shipevidence obtained maintained within construction andfrom one or more of safe limits at all the theories andthe following:times factors affecting trim and stability.1 approved and measuresin-service necessary toexperience preserve trim and stability .2 approved

Knowledge of the training effect on trim andship experience stability of a ship in the event of .3 approved damage to and simulator consequent flooding of a compartment training, and counter where appropriate measures to be taken

Knowledge of IMO recommendations concerning ship stability

Monitor and controlKnowledge ofExamination and Procedures for compliance withinternational assessment of monitoring legislativemaritime lawevidence obtained operations and requirements and embodied in from one or more of maintenance comply measures to ensure international the following:with legislative safety of life at seaagreements andrequirements and the protection ofconventions .1 approved the marine in-servicePotential environmentRegard shall be experiencenon-compliance is paid especially topromptly and fully the following .2 approved identified subjects: training Planned renewal and .1 certificates and ship experience extension of other documents certificates ensures required to be.3 approved continued validity carried on boardsimulator of surveyed items ships byand equipment international training, conventions, howwhere appropriate they may be obtained and their period of validity

.2 responsibilities under the relevant requirements of the International Convention on Load Lines

.3 responsibilities under the relevant requirements of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea

.4 responsibilities under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships

.5 maritime declarations of health and the requirements of the International Health Regulations

.6 responsibilities under international instruments affecting the safety of the ship, passengers, crew and cargo

.7 methods and aids to prevent pollution of the marine environment by ships

.8 national legislation for implementing international agreements and conventions

Maintain safety andA thoroughExamination and Procedures for security of theknowledge ofassessment of monitoring fire ship's crew andlife-saving evidence obtained detection and safety passengers and the appliance from practicalsystems ensure that operationalregulations instruction and all alarms are conditions of(Internationalapproved in-service detected promptly life-saving, Convention for the training and acted upon in fire-fighting andSafety of Life at accordance with other safety systems Sea)and experienceestablished emergency procedures Organization of fire and abandon ship drills

Maintenance of operational condition of life-saving, fire-fighting and other safety systems

Actions to be taken to protect and safeguard all persons on board in emergencies

Actions to limit damage and salve the ship following a fire, explosion, collision or grounding

Develop emergency andPreparation ofExamination and Emergency procedures damage control plans contingency plans assessment of are in accordance and handle emergency for response to evidence obtained with the established situations emergencies from approved plans for emergency in-servicesituations Ship construction, including damage training control and experience

Methods and aids for fire prevention, detection and extinction

Functions and use of life-saving appliances

Organize and manageA knowledge ofExamination and The crew are the crew personnel assessment of allocated duties and management, evidence obtained informed of expected organization andfrom approved standards of work training on in-serviceand behaviour in a board ship training manner appropriate to the individuals A knowledge ofand experienceconcerned related international Training maritimeobjectives and conventions and activities are based recommendations,on an assessment of and nationalcurrent competence legislation and capabilities and operational requirements

Organize and manageA thoroughExamination and Action taken and the provision of knowledge of theassessment of procedures followed medical care on boarduse and contents of evidence obtained correctly apply and the following from approved make full use of publications: advice available training .1 International Medical Guide for Ships or equivalent national publications

.2 Medical section of the International Code of Signals

.3 Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving Dangerous Goods

Section A-II/3

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of officers in charge of a navigational watch and of masters on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage, engaged on near-coastal voyages

Officer in charge of a navigational watch

Standard of competence

1 Every candidate for certification shall:

.1 be required to demonstrate the competence to undertake at operational level, the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-II/3;

.2 at least hold an appropriate certificate for performing VHF radiocommunications in accordance with the requirements of the Radio Regulations; and

.3 if designed to have primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents, hold an appropriate certificate issued or recognized under the provisions of the Radio Regulations.

2 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification is listed in column 2 of table A-II/3.

3 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-II/3 shall be sufficient to enable the candidate to serve in the capacity of officer in charge of a navigational watch.

4 Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall be based on Section A-VIII/1, Part 3-1 - Basic principles to be observed in keeping a navigational watch, and shall also take into account the relevant requirements of this Part and the guidance given in Part B of this Code.

5 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluation competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-II/3.

Special training

6 Every candidate for certification as officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage, engaged on near-coastal voyages, who, in accordance with paragraph 4.2.1 of Regulation II/3, is required to have completed special training, shall follow an approved program of on-board training which:

.1 ensures that during the required period of seagoing service the candidate receives systematic practical training and experience in the tasks, duties and responsibilities of an officer in charge of a navigational watch, taking into account the guidance given in Section B-II/1 of this Code;

.2 is closely supervised and monitored by qualified officers on board the ships in which the approved seagoing service is performed; and

.3 is adequately documented in a training record book or similar document.

Master

7 Every candidate for certification as master on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage, engaged on near coastal voyages, shall meet the requirements for an officer in charge of a navigational watch set out below and, in addition, shall be required to provide evidence of knowledge and ability to carry out all the duties of such a master.

TABLE A-II/3

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE FOR OFFICERS IN CHARGE OF A NAVIGATIONAL WATCH AND FOR MASTERS ON SHIPS OF LESS THAN 500 GROSS TONNAGE ENGAGED ON NEAR-COASTAL VOYAGES

Function: Navigation at the operation level

Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 CompetenceKnowledge, Methods for Criteria for understanding anddemonstrating evaluating proficiency competence competence

Plan andNavigation Examination andInformation conduct aassessment ofobtained from coastal Ability to determine evidence obtainednavigational charts passage and the ship's position by from one or more and publications is determine the use of:of the following:relevant, positioninterpreted .1 landmarks .1 approvedcorrectly and in-service properly applied .2 aids to navigation, experience including lighthouses,The primary method beacons and buoys.2 approvedof fixing the ship's position is .3 dead reckoning, training the most taking into accountship experienceappropriate to the winds, tides, currentsprevailing and estimated speed.3 approvedcircumstances and simulatorconditions Thorough knowledge of and ability to use training,The position is navigational chartswhere appropriatedetermined within and publications, suchthe limits of as sailing directions, .4 approvedacceptable tide tables, notices laboratory instrument/system to mariners, radio equipmenterrors navigational warnings and ships' routeing training The reliability of information the information using: chart obtained from the Reporting in catalogues,primary method of accordance with thecharts,position fixing is Guidelines and navigational checked at Criteria for Shippublications,appropriate Reporting Systemsradio navigational intervals warnings, sextant, Note: This item only azimuth mirror,Calculations and required for electronic measurements of certification navigation navigational equipment, echoinformation are as mastersounding accurate equipment, compass Charts and publications selected are the largest scale on board suitable for the area of navigation and charts are corrected in accordance with the latest information available

Navigational aids andAssessment ofPerformance checks equipmentevidence obtainedand tests of from approvednavigation systems Ability to operate radar navigation comply with safely and determine and ARPA simulator manufacturer's the ship's position by training recommendations, use of allgood navigational navigational aids and practice and IMO equipment commonlyresolutions on fitted on board the performance ships concerned standards for navigational equipment

Interpretation and analysis of information obtained from radar is in accordance with accepted navigational practice and takes account of the limits and accuracy levels of radar

Compasses Errors in magnetic compasses are Knowledge of thedetermined and errors and correctionsapplied correctly of magnetic compasses to courses and bearings Ability to determine errors of the compass using terrestrial means, and to allow for such errors

Automatic pilot Selection of the mode of steering is Knowledge of automaticthe most suitable pilot systems and for prevailing procedures; weather, sea and change-over fromtraffic conditions manual to automatic and intended control and manoeuvres vice-versa; adjustment of controls for optimum performance

Meteorology Measurements and observations of Ability to use andweather conditions interpret information are accurate and obtained from appropriate to the shipborne passage meteorological instruments Meteorological information is Knowledge of theevaluated and characteristics of theapplied to maintain various weather the safe passage of systems, reportingthe vessel procedures and recording systems

Ability to apply the meteorological information available

Maintain a Watchkeeping Examination andThe conduct, safe assessment ofhandover and relief navigational evidence obtainedof the watch watch Thorough knowledge offrom one or more conforms with content, application and intent of theof the following:accepted principles International and procedures Regulations for.1 approved Preventing Collisionsin-service A proper lookout is at Sea experience maintained at all times and in Knowledge of content .2 approvedconformity with of the Basic training accepted principles Principles to beand procedures Observed in Keeping aship experience Navigational WatchLights, shapes and .3 approvedsound signals Use of routeing in simulatorconform with the accordance with the training,requirements General Provisions of contained in the Ships' Routeingwhere appropriateInternational Regulations for .4 approvedPreventing laboratory Collisions at Sea equipmentand are correctly training recognized The frequency and extent of monitoring of traffic, the ship and the environment conforms with accepted principles and procedures

Action to avoid close encounters and collision with other vessels is in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea

Decisions to adjust course and/or speed are both timely and in accordance with accepted navigation procedures

A proper record is maintained of movements and activities relating to the navigation of the ship

Responsibility for safe navigation is clearly defined at all times, including periods when the Master is on the bridge and when under pilotage

Respond toEmergency procedures Examination andThe type and scale emergencies including: assessment ofof the emergency is evidence obtainedpromptly identified .1 precautions for the from one or more protection and safetyof the following:Initial actions of passengers inand, if emergency situations .1 approvedappropriate, in-service manoeuvring, are in .2 initial assessmentexperience accordance with of damage and damagecontingency plans control.2 approvedand are appropriate to the urgency of .3 action to be taken training the situation and following a collisionship experiencethe nature of the emergency .4 action to be taken.3 approved following a groundingsimulator

In addition, the training, following material where appropriate should be included for certification .4 practical as master: instruction

.1 emergency steering

.2 arrangements for towing and for being taken in tow

.3 rescuing persons from the sea

.4 assisting a vessel in distress

.5 appreciation of the action to be taken when emergencies arise in port

Respond to aSearch and rescueExamination andThe distress or distress assessment ofemergency signal is signal at sea Knowledge of the evidence obtainedimmediately contents of the IMOfrom practical recognized Merchant Ship Search instruction or and Rescue Manualapproved simulator Contingency plans (MERSAR) training,and instructions in where appropriatestanding orders are implemented and complied with

Manoeuvre the Ship manoeuvring and Examination andSafe operating ship andhandling assessment oflimits of ship operate smallevidence obtainedpropulsion, ship powerKnowledge of factors from one or more steering and power plantsaffecting safe of the following:systems are not manoeuvring and exceeded in normal handling .1 approvedmanoeuvres in-service The operation of small experience Adjustments made to ship power plants and the ship's course auxiliaries.2 approvedand speed maintain safety of Proper procedures for training navigation anchoring and mooringship experience Plant, auxiliary .3 approvedmachinery and simulatorequipment is training,operated in accordance with where appropriatetechnical specifications and within safe operating limits at all times

Function: Cargo handling and stowage at the operational level

Monitor the Cargo handling,Examination andCargo operations loading,stowage and securing assessment ofare carried out in stowage, evidence obtainedaccordance with the securing andKnowledge of safefrom one or more cargo plan or other unloading ofhandling, stowage andof the following:documents and cargoes and securing of cargoes established safety their careincluding dangerous, .1 approvedrules/regulations, during thehazardous and harmfulin-service equipment operating voyagecargoes and theirexperience instructions and effect on the safetyshipboard stowage of life and of the .2 approvedlimitations ship training The handling of Use of the ship experiencedangerous, International Maritimehazardous and Dangerous Goods (IMDG) .3 approvedharmful cargoes Code simulatorcomplies with training,international regulations and where appropriaterecognized standards and codes of safe practice

EnsurePrevention ofExamination andProcedures for compliancepollution of the assessment ofmonitoring with pollutionmarine environment and evidence obtainedshipboard preventionanti-pollution from one or more operations and requirementsprocedures of the following:ensuring compliance with MARPOL Knowledge of the .1 approvedrequirements are precautions to bein-service fully observed taken to prevent experience pollution of the marine environment and .2 approved anti-pollution procedures training ship experience Anti-pollution procedures and all associated equipment

MaintainShip stability Examination andStability seaworthinessassessment ofconditions comply of the ship Working knowledge andevidence obtainedwith the IMO intact application of from one or more stability criteria stability, trim andof the following:under all stress tables, andconditions of diagrams and stress.1 approvedloading calculating equipmentin-service experience Actions to ensure Understanding ofand maintain the fundamental actions to .2 approvedwatertight be taken in the event integrity of the of partial loss of training ship are in intact buoyancyship experienceaccordance with accepted practice Understanding of the .3 approved fundamentals ofsimulator watertight integrity training, Ship constructionwhere appropriate

General knowledge of .4 approved the principallaboratory structural members ofequipment a ship and the proper names for the various training parts

Prevent,Fire prevention andAssessment ofThe type and scale control and fire-fightingevidence obtainedof the problem is fight fires onappliances from approvedpromptly identified boardfire-fightingand initial actions Knowledge of fire conform with the prevention training emergency and experience asprocedures and Ability to organizeset out in Section contingency plans fire drillsA-VI/3 for the ship

Knowledge of classesEvacuation, and chemistry of fire emergency shut down and isolation Knowledge ofprocedures are fire-fighting systems appropriate to the nature of the Understanding ofemergency and are action to be taken in implemented the event of fire,promptly including fires involving oil systems The order of priority, and the levels and time scales of making reports and informing personnel on board, are relevant to the nature of the emergency and reflect the urgency of the problem

Operate Life-savingAssessment ofActions in life-savingevidence obtainedresponding to appliancesAbility to organizefrom approvedabandon ship, and abandon ship drills survival situations and knowledge of the training are appropriate to operation of survivaland experience asthe prevailing craft and rescue set out in Section circumstances and boats, their launching A-VI/2, paragraphs conditions and appliances and 1 to 4 comply with arrangements, and accepted safety their equipment practices and including radio standards life-saving appliances, satellite EPIRBs, SARTs, immersion suits and thermal protective aids

Knowledge of survival at sea techniques

Apply medical Medical aidAssessment ofThe identification first aid on evidence obtainedof probable cause, board shipPractical applicationfrom approvednature and extent of medical guides and of injuries or advice by radio, training conditions is including the abilityas set out inprompt and to take effectiveSection A-VI/4,treatment minimizes action based on such paragraphs 1 to 3immediate threat to knowledge in the case life of accidents or illnesses that are likely to occur on board ship

Monitor Basic workingAssessment ofLegislative complianceknowledge of the evidence obtainedrequirements withrelevant IMO from examination relating to safety legislative conventions concerning or approvedof life at sea and requirementssafety of life at sea protection of the and protection of the training marine environment marine environmentare correctly identified

Section A-II/4

Mandatory minimum requirements for ratings forming part of a navigational watch

Standard of competence

1 Every rating forming part of a navigational watch on a seagoing ship of 500 gross tonnage or more shall be required to demonstrate the competence to perform the navigation function at the support level, as specified in column 1 of table A-II/4.

2 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required of ratings forming part of a navigational watch on a seagoing ship of 500 gross tonnage or more is listed in column 2 of table A-II/4.

3 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence specified in columns 3 and 4 of table A-II/4. The reference to "practical test" in column 3 may include approved shore-based training in which the students undergo practical testing.

4 Where there are no tables of competence for the support level in respect to certain functions, it remains the responsibility of the Administration to determine the appropriate training, assessment and certification requirements to be applied to personnel designated to perform those functions at the support level.

TABLE A-II/4

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE FOR RATINGS FORMING PART OF A NAVIGATIONAL WATCH

Function: Navigation at the support level

Column 1Column 2 Column 3Column 4 Competence Knowledge, Methods for Criteria for understanding anddemonstrating evaluating competence proficiency competence

Steer theUse of magnetic andAssessment of A steady course is ship and gyro compasses evidence obtained steered within comply with from: acceptable limits helm ordersHelm ordershaving regard to the also in the .1 practicalarea of navigation EnglishChange-over from test, orand prevailing sea language automatic pilot to state. Alterations of hand steering and.2 approved course are smooth and vice versa in-servicecontrolled experience or approvedCommunications are training clear and concise at all times and orders ship experience are acknowledged in a seamanlike manner

Keep a Responsibilities of aAssessment of Sound signals, lights proper look-out, includingevidence obtained and other objects are look-out byreporting thefrom: promptly detected and sight andapproximate bearingtheir appropriate hearingof a sound signal, .1 practicalbearing in degrees or light or other objecttest, orpoints is reported to in degrees or points the officer of the .2 approved watch in-service experience or approved training ship experience

Contribute Shipboard terms andAssessment of Communications are to definitionsevidence obtained clear and concise and monitoringfrom approved advice/clarification andUse of appropriate in-serviceis sought from the controllinginternal experience or officer on watch a safe watch communication andapprovedwhere watch alarm systemsinformation or training instructions are not Ability to understandship experience clearly understood orders and to communicate with the Maintenance, officer of the watch hand-over and relief in matters relevantof the watch is in to watchkeepingconformity with dutiesaccepted practices and procedures

Procedures for the relief, maintenance and hand-over of a watch

Information required to maintain a safe watch

Basic environmental protection procedures

OperateKnowledge of Assessment of Initial action on emergencyemergency duties and evidence obtained becoming aware of an equipmentalarm signalsfromemergency or abnormal and apply demonstration and situation is in emergencyKnowledge of approvedconformity with procedures pyrotechnic distress in-serviceestablished practices signals; satellite experience or and procedures EPIRBs and SARTs approved Communications are Avoidance of false training clear and concise at distress alerts andship experience all times and orders action to be taken inare acknowledged in a event of accidentalseamanlike manner activation The integrity of emergency and distress alerting systems is maintained at all times

CHAPTER III

STANDARDS REGARDING THE ENGINE

DEPARTMENT

Section A-III/1

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of officers in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine-room or designated duty engineers in a periodically unmanned engine-room

Training

1 The education and training required by paragraph 2.3 of Regulation III/1 shall include training in mechanical and electrical workshop skills relevant to the duties of an engineer officer.

On-board training

2 Every candidate for certification as officer in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine-room or as designated duty engineer in a periodically unmanned engine-room of ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW or more shall follow an approved program of on-board training which:

.1 ensures that during the required period of seagoing service the candidate receives systematic practical training and experience in the tasks, duties and responsibilities of an officer in charge of an engine-room watch, taking into account the guidance given in Section B-III/1 of this Code.

.2 is closely supervised and monitored by a qualified and certificated engineer officer aboard the ships in which the approved seagoing service is performed; and

.3 is adequately documented in a training record book.

Standard of competence

3 Every candidate for certification as officer in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine-room or as designated duty engineer in a periodically unmanned engine-room on a seagoing ship powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW propulsion power or more shall be required to demonstrate ability to undertake at the operational level, the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-III/1.

4 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification is listed in column 2 of table A-III/1.

5 The level of knowledge of the material listed in column 2 of table A-III/1 shall be sufficient for engineer officers to carry out their watchkeeping duties.

6 Training and experience to achieve the necessary theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall be based on Section A-VIII/1, part 3-2 - Principles to be observed in keeping an engineering watch, and shall take into account the relevant requirements of this Part and the guidance given in Part B of this Code.

7 Candidates for certification for service in ships in which steam boilers do not form part of their machinery may omit the relevant requirements of table A-III/1. A certificate awarded on such a basis shall not be valid for service on ships in which steam boilers form part of a ship's machinery until the engineer officer meets the standard of competence in the items omitted from table A-III/1. Any such limitation shall be stated on the certificate and in the endorsement.

8 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-III/1.

Near-coastal voyages

9 The requirements of paragraphs 2.2 and 2.3 of Regulation III/1 may be varied for engineer offices of ships powered by main propulsion machinery of less than 3,000 kW propulsion power engaged on near-coastal voyages, bearing in mind the effect on the safety of all ships which may be operating in the same waters. Any such limitation shall be stated on the certificate and in the endorsement.

TABLE A-III/1

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE FOR OFFICERS IN CHARGE OF AN ENGINEERING WATCH IN A MANNED ENGINE-ROOM OR DESIGNATED DUTY ENGINEERS IN A PERIODICALLY UNMANNED ENGINE-ROOM

Function: Marine engineering at the operational level

Column 1Column 2Column 3 Column 4 CompetenceKnowledge,Methods forCriteria for understanding and demonstratingevaluating proficiencycompetence competence

Use appropriate CharacteristicsAssessment ofIdentification of tools for and limitations of evidence obtainedimportant fabrication and materials used infrom one or more ofparameters for repairconstruction and the following: fabrication of operationsrepair of ships typical ship typically and equipment.1 approvedrelated performed on workshop skillscomponents is ships Characteristics training appropriate and limitations of processes used forSelection of fabrication and.2 approvedmaterial is repair practicalappropriate experience and Properties and testsFabrication is to parametersdesignated considered in the tolerances fabrication and repair of systems Use of equipment and componentsand machine tools is appropriate Application ofand safe safe working practices in the workshop environment

Use hand toolsDesign Assessment ofSafety procedures and measuring characteristicsevidence obtainedfollowed are equipment for and selection of from one or more ofappropriate dismantling,materials in the following: maintenance,construction of Selection of repair andequipment.1 approvedtools and spare re-assembly of workshop skillsgear is shipboard plant Interpretation of training appropriate and equipment machinery drawings and handbooks Dismantling, .2 approved inspecting, Operationalpracticalrepairing and characteristics of experience and reassembling equipment andtestsequipment is in systems accordance with manuals and good practice

Re-commissioning and performance testing is in accordance with manuals and good practice

Use hand tools, Safety Assessment ofImplementation of electrical andrequirements for evidence obtainedsafety procedures electronicworking on from one or more ofis satisfactory measuring and shipboardthe following: test equipmentelectrical systemsSelection and use for fault.1 approvedof test equipment finding,Construction and workshop skillsis appropriate maintenance and operational training and repaircharacteristics ofinterpretation of operationsshipboard AC andresults is DC electrical.2 approvedaccurate systems andpractical equipmentexperience and Selection of tests procedures for Construction andthe conduct of operation ofrepair and electrical test maintenance is in and measuring accordance with equipment manuals and good practice

Commissioning and performance testing of equipment and systems brought back into service after repair is in accordance with manuals and good practice

Maintain a safe Thorough knowledge Assessment ofThe conduct, engineering of basic evidence obtainedhandover and watch principles to be from one or more ofrelief of the observed inthe following: watch conforms keeping anwith accepted engineering watch.1 approvedprinciples and including: in-service procedures experience .1 duties The frequency and associated with.2 approvedextent of taking over and monitoring of accepting a watch training engineering ship experienceequipment and .2 routine duties systems conforms undertaken during.3 approvedto manufacturers' a watchsimulatorrecommendations and accepted .3 maintenance of training,principles and the machinerywhere appropriateprocedures space log book andincluding basic the significance .4 approvedprinciples to be of the readingslaboratory observed in takenequipmentkeeping an engineering watch .4 duties training associated with A proper record handing over ais maintained of watch the movements and activities Safety andrelating to the emergency ship's procedures; engineering changeover of systems remote/automatic to local control of all systems

Safety precautions to be observed during a watch and immediate actions to be taken in the event of fire or accident, with particular reference to oil systems

Use English inAdequate knowledge Examination andEnglish language written and of the English assessment ofpublications oral form language to enable evidence obtainedrelevant to the officer to use from practical engineering engineeringinstructionduties as publications andcorrectly to performinterpreted engineering duties Communications are clear and understood

Operate mainMain and auxiliary Examination andOperations are and auxiliary machinery: assessment ofplanned and machinery andevidence obtainedcarried out in associated.1 preparation offrom one or more ofaccordance with control systems main machinery and the following: established rules preparation ofand procedures to auxiliary.1 approvedensure safety of machinery forin-service operations and operationexperience avoid pollution of the marine .2 operation of.2 approvedenvironment steam boilers, including training Deviations from combustion systems ship experiencethe norm are promptly .3 methods of.3 approvedidentified checking water simulator level in steamThe output of boilers and action training,plant and necessary if water where appropriateengineering level is abnormal systems .4 approvedconsistently .4 location of laboratory meets common faults in equipmentrequirements machinery and including bridge plant in engine training orders relating and boiler roomsto changes in and actionspeed and necessary todirection prevent damage The causes of machinery malfunctions are promptly identified and actions are designed to ensure the overall safety of the ship and the plant having regard to the prevailing circumstances and conditions

Operate pumping Pumping systems: Examination andOperations are systems andassessment ofplanned and associated.1 routine pumping evidence obtainedcarried out in control systems operations from one or more ofaccordance with the following: established rules .2 operation of and procedures to bilge, ballast and .1 approvedensure safety of cargo pumpingin-service operations and systemsexperience avoid pollution of the marine .2 approvedenvironment training ship experience

.3 approved simulator training, where appropriate

.4 approved laboratory equipment training

Maintain marine Marine systems:Examination andIsolation, engineeringassessment ofdismantling and systems Appropriate basicevidence obtainedre-assembly of including mechanical from one or more ofplant and control systems knowledge andthe following: equipment is in skillsaccordance with .1 approvedaccepted Safety and in-service practices and emergencyexperience procedures. procedures: Action taken .2 approvedleads to the Safe isolation of restoration of electrical and all training plant by the plant andship experiencemethod most equipment requiredsuitable and before personnel .3 approvedappropriate to are permitted to simulatorthe prevailing work on such plantcircumstances and or equipment training,conditions where appropriate Undertake maintenance and.4 approved repair to plantlaboratory and equipmentequipment training

Function: Electrical, electronic and control engineering at the operational level

Operate Generating plant:Examination andOperations are alternators, assessment ofplanned and generators andAppropriate basicevidence obtainedcarried out in control systems electrical from one or more ofaccordance with knowledge andthe following: established rules skillsand procedures to .1 approvedensure safety of Preparing, in-service operations starting, coupling experience and changing over alternators or .2 approved generators training Location of common ship experience faults and action to prevent damage.3 approved simulator Control systems: training, Location of common where appropriate faults and actions to prevent damage.4 approved laboratory equipment training

EnsurePrevention ofExamination andProcedures for compliance with pollution of the assessment ofmonitoring pollution marine environment evidence obtainedshipboard prevention from one or more ofoperations and requirementsKnowledge of the the following: ensuring precautions to be compliance with taken to prevent .1 approvedMARPOL pollution of the in-service requirements are marine environment experience fully observed

Anti-pollution .2 approved procedures and all associated training equipmentship experience

MaintainShip stability Examination andThe stability seaworthinessassessment ofconditions comply of the ship Working knowledgeevidence obtainedwith the IMO and application of from one or more ofintact stability stability, trimthe following: criteria under and stress tables,all conditions of diagrams and .1 approvedloading stress calculating in-service equipmentexperience Actions to ensure and maintain the Understanding of .2 approvedwatertight the fundamentalsintegrity of the of watertight training ship are in integrityship experienceaccordance with accepted practice Understanding of .3 approved fundamentalsimulator actions to be taken in the event training, of partial loss of where appropriate intact buoyancy .4 approved Ship constructionlaboratory equipment General knowledge of the principal training structural members of a ship and the proper names for the various parts

Prevent,Fire preventionAssessment ofThe type and control and and fire-fightingevidence obtainedscale of the fight fires onappliances from approvedproblem is boardfire-fightingpromptly Knowledge of fire identified and prevention training initial actions and experience asconform with the Ability to set out in Section emergency organize fireA-VI/3 procedure and drillscontingency plans for the ship Knowledge of classes and Evacuation, chemistry of fire emergency shutdown and Knowledge ofisolation fire-fighting procedures are systems appropriate to the nature of the Action to be takenemergency and are in the event of implemented fire, including promptly fires involving oil systems The order of priority, and the levels and time scales of making reports and informing personnel on board, are relevant to the nature of the emergency and reflect the urgency of the problem

Operate Life-savingAssessment ofActions in life-savingevidence obtainedresponding to appliancesAbility to from approvedabandon ship and organize abandonsurvival ship drills and training situations are knowledge of the and experience asappropriate to operation of set out in Section the prevailing survival craft and A-VI/2, paragraphs circumstances and rescue boats,1 to 4 conditions and their launching comply with appliances andaccepted safety arrangements, and practices and their equipment,standards including radio life-saving appliances, satellite EPIRBs, SARTs, immersion suits and thermal protective aids.

Knowledge of survival at sea techniques

Apply medical Medical aidAssessment ofIdentification of first aid on evidence obtainedprobable cause, board shipPracticalfrom approvednature and extent application ofof injuries or medical guides and training asconditions is advice by radio, set out in Section prompt and including theA-VI/4, paragraphs treatment ability to take1 to 3 minimizes effective actionimmediate threat based on such to life knowledge in the case of accidents or illnesses that are likely to occur on board ship

Monitor Basic workingAssessment ofLegislative compliance with knowledge of the evidence obtainedrequirements legislative relevant IMO from examination orrelating to requirementsconventionsapproved safety of life at concerning safety sea and of life at sea and training protection of the protection of the marine marine environmentenvironment are correctly identified

Section A-III/2

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of chief engineer officers and second engineer officers on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3,000 kW propulsion power or more

Standard of competence

1 Every candidate for certification as chief engineer officer and second engineer officer of seagoing ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3,000 kW power or more shall be required to demonstrate ability to undertake at the management level, the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-III/2.

2 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification is listed in column 2 of table A-III/2. This incorporates, expands and extends in depth the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-III/1 for officers in charge of an engineering watch.

3 Bearing in mind that a second engineer officer shall be in a position to assume the responsibilities of the chief engineer officer at any time, assessment in these subjects shall be designed to test the candidate's ability to assimilate all available information that affects the safe operation of the ship's machinery and the protection of the marine environment.

4 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-III/2 shall be sufficient to enable the candidate to serve in the capacity of chief engineer officer or second engineer officer.

5 Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall take into account the relevant requirements of this Part and the guidance given in Part B of this Code.

6 The Administration may omit knowledge requirements for types of propulsion machinery other than those machinery installations for which the certificate to be awarded shall be valid. A certificate awarded on such a basis shall not be valid for any category of machinery installation which has been omitted until the engineer officer proves to be competent in these knowledge requirements. Any such limitation shall be stated on the certificate and in the endorsement.

7 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-III/2.

Near-coastal voyages

8 The level of knowledge, understanding and proficiency required under the different sections listed in Column 2 of table A-III/2 may be varied for officers of ships with limited propulsion power engaged on near-coastal voyages, as considered necessary, bearing in mind the effect on the safety of all ships which may be operating in the same waters. Any such limitation shall be stated on the certificate and in the endorsement.

TABLE A-III/2

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE FOR CHIEF ENGINEER OFFICERS AND SECOND ENGINEER OFFICERS ON SHIPS POWERED BY MAIN PROPULSION MACHINERY OF 3,000 kW PROPULSION POWER OR MORE

Function: Marine engineering at the management level

Column 1 Column 2Column 3Column 4 CompetenceKnowledge,Methods for Criteria for understanding and demonstrating evaluating proficiencycompetencecompetence

Plan andTheoreticalExamination andThe planning and scheduleknowledgeassessment ofpreparation of operations evidence obtainedoperations is Thermodynamics and from one or more suited to the heat transmissionof the following:design parameters of the power Mechanics and.1 approvedinstallation and hydromechanics in-service to the experience;requirements of Operating the voyage principles of ship .2 approved power installations (diesel, steam and training gas turbine) and ship experience; refrigeration .3 approved Physical and simulator chemical training, where appropriate properties of fuels and Start up andlubricants Examination andThe methods of shut down main assessment ofpreparing the propulsion andTechnology ofevidence obtainedstart-up and of auxiliary materialsfrom one or more making available machineryof the following:fuels, including Naval architecturelubricants, associatedand ship .1 approvedcooling water and systems construction,in-service air are the most including damage experience;appropriate control .2 approvedChecks of training pressures, temperatures and ship experience; revolutions during the .3 approvedstart-up and simulatorwarm-up period training,are in accordance with technical where appropriatespecifications and agreed work plans

Surveillance of main propulsion plant and auxiliary systems is sufficient to maintain safe operating conditions

The methods of preparing the shut-down and of supervising the cooling-down of the engine are the most appropriate

Operate,Practical knowledgeExamination andThe methods of monitor andassessment ofmeasuring the evaluate engine Operation andevidence obtainedload capacity of performance and maintenance of:from one or more the engines are capacity of the following:in accordance .1 marine dieselwith technical engines.1 approvedspecifications in-service .2 marine steamexperience Performance is propulsion plantchecked against .2 approvedbridge orders .3 marine gas turbines training Performance ship experiencelevels are in Operation and accordance with maintenance of .3 approvedtechnical auxiliarysimulatorspecifications machinery, training, where appropriate including pumping Maintain safety and piping systems,Examination andArrangements for of engine auxiliary boiler assessment ofensuring the safe equipment,plant and steering evidence obtainedand efficient systems and gear systems from one or more operation and services of the following:condition of the Operation, testingmachinery and maintenance of .1 approvedinstallation are control systemsin-service suitable for all experience modes of Operation and operation maintenance of .2 approved cargo-handling equipment and deck training machineryship experience

Manage fuel and Operation andExamination andFuel and ballast ballast maintenance of assessment ofoperations meet operationsmachinery includingevidence obtainedoperational pumps and piping from one or more requirements and systemsof the following:are carried out so as to prevent .1 approvedpollution of the in-service marine experience environment

.2 approved training ship experience

.3 approved simulator training, where appropriate

Use internalOperation of all Examination andTransmission and communic-ationinternal assessment ofreception of systems communicationevidence obtainedmessages are systems on board from one or more consistently of the following:successful

.1 approvedCommunication in-service records are experience complete, accurate and .2 approvedcomply with training statutory requirements ship experience

.3 approved simulator training, where appropriate .4 approved laboratory equipment training

Function: Electrical, electronic and control engineering at the management level

Operate TheoreticalExamination andOperation of electrical andknowledgeassessment ofequipment and electronic evidence obtainedsystem is in control Marine from one or more accordance with equipment electrotechnology, of the following:operating manuals electronics and electrical .1 approvedPerformance equipmentin-service levels are in experience accordance with Fundamentals of technical automation,.2 approvedspecifications instrumentation and control systems training ship experience Practical knowledge .3 approved simulator training, where appropriate

.4 approved laboratory equipment training

Test, detectOperation, testing Examination andMaintenance faults andand maintenance of assessment ofactivities are maintain andelectrical and evidence obtainedcorrectly planned restore electronic control from one or more in accordance electrical andequipment includingof the following:with technical, electronicfault diagnostics legislative, control.1 approvedsafety and equipment to in-service procedural operatingexperience specifications condition .2 approvedThe effect of training malfunctions on associated plant ship experienceand systems is accurately .3 approvedidentified, simulatorship's technical training,drawings are correctly where appropriateinterpreted, measuring and .4 approvedcalibrating laboratory instruments are equipmentcorrectly used training and actions taken are justified

Organize safe TheoreticalExamination andMaintenance maintenance and knowledgeassessment ofactivities are repair evidence obtainedcorrectly planned proceduresMarine engineering from one or more and carried out practice of the following:in accordance with technical, Practical knowledge.1 approvedlegislative, in-service safety and Organizing and experience procedural carrying out safe specifications maintenance and.2 approved repair procedures Appropriate training plans, ship experiencespecifications, materials and .3 approvedequipment are workshop available for training maintenance and repair

Action taken leads to the restoration of plant by the most suitable method

Detect andPractical knowledgeExamination andThe methods of identify the assessment ofcomparing actual cause ofDetection of evidence obtainedoperating machinery machineryfrom one or more conditions are in malfunctionsmalfunction, of the following:accordance with and correct location of faultsrecommended faultsand action to.1 approvedpractices and prevent damage in-service procedures experience Actions and .2 approveddecisions are in training accordance with recommended ship experienceoperating specifications .3 approvedand limitations simulator training, where appropriate

Ensure safe Practical knowledgeExamination andWorking practices workingassessment ofare in accordance practices Safe working evidence obtainedwith legislative practicesfrom one or more requirements, of the following:codes of practice, permits .1 approvedto work and in-service environmental experience concerns

.2 approved training ship experience

Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the management level

Control trim, Understanding of Examination andStability and stability and fundamentalassessment ofstress conditions stressprinciples of ship evidence obtainedare maintained construction and from one or more within safety the theories and of the following:limits at all factors affecting times trim and stability .1 approved and measures in-service necessary to experience preserve trim and stability.2 approved

Knowledge of the training effect on trim and ship experience stability of a ship in the event of.3 approved damage to andsimulator consequent flooding of a compartment training, and counterwhere appropriate measures to be taken

Knowledge of IMO recommendations concerning ship stability

Monitor and Knowledge of Examination andProcedures for control relevant assessment ofmonitoring compliance with internationalevidence obtainedoperations and legislative maritime law from one or more maintenance requirementsembodied inof the following:comply with and measures to international legislative ensure safety agreements and .1 approvedrequirements of life at seaconventionsin-service and protection experience Potential of the marine Regard shall be non-compliance is environment paid especially to .2 approvedpromptly and the following fully identified subjects: training ship experienceRequirements for .1 certificates and renewal and other documents.3 approvedextension of required to be simulatorcertificates carried on boardensures continued ships by training,validity of internationalwhere appropriatesurvey items and conventions, howequipment they may be obtained and the period of their legal validity

.2 responsibilities under the relevant requirements of the International Convention on Load Lines

.3 responsibilities under the relevant requirements of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea

.4 responsibilities under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships

.5 maritime declarations of health and the requirements of the International Health Regulations

6. responsibilities under international instruments affecting the safety of the ships, passengers, crew or cargo

.7 methods and aids to prevent pollution of the environment by ships

.8 knowledge of national legislation for implementing international agreements and conventions

Maintain safety A thorough Examination andProcedures for and security of knowledge of assessment ofmonitoring the vessel, life-savingevidence obtainedfire-detection crew andappliancefrom practical and safety passengers andregulationsinstruction andsystems ensure the operational (International approved that all alarms condition ofConvention for the in-service are detected life-saving,Safety of Life at promptly and fire-fighting Sea) training acted upon in and otherand experience accordance with safety systemsOrganization of established fire and abandonemergency ship drills procedures

Maintenance of operational condition of life-saving, fire-fighting and other safety systems

Actions to be taken to protect and safeguard all persons on board in emergencies

Actions to limit damage and salve the ship following fire, explosion, collision or grounding

Develop Ship construction, Examination andEmergency emergency and including damage assessment ofprocedures are in damage controlcontrolevidence obtainedaccordance with plans andfrom approvedthe established handleMethods and aids in-service plans for emergency for fireemergency situationsprevention, training situations detection andand experience extinction

Functions and use of life-saving appliances

Organize andA knowledge of Examination andThe crew are manage the crew personnelassessment ofallocated duties management,evidence obtainedand informed of organization and from approvedexpected training onin-service standards of work board ships training and behaviour in a manner A knowledge of and experience appropriate to international the individuals maritimeconcerned conventions and recommendations, Training and related objectives and nationalactivities are legislation based on an assessment of current competence and capabilities and operational requirements

Section A-III/3

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of chief engineer officers and second engineer officers on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of between 750 kW and 3,000 kW propulsion power

Standard of competence

1 Every candidate for certification as chief engineer officer and second engineer officer of seagoing ships powered by main propulsion machinery of between 750 kW and 3,000 kW power shall be required to demonstrate ability to undertake at management level, the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-III/2.

2 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification is listed in column 2 of table A-III/2. This incorporates, expands and extends in depth the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-III/1 for officers in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine room or designated duty engineers in a periodically unmanned engine room.

3 Bearing in mind that a second engineer officer shall be in a position to assume the responsibility of the chief engineer officer at any time, assessment in these subjects shall be designed to test the candidate's ability to assimilate all available information that affects the safe operation of the ship's machinery and the protection of the marine environment.

4 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-III/2 may be lowered but shall be sufficient to enable the candidate to serve in the capacity of chief engineer officer or second engineer officer at the range of propulsion power specified in this Section.

5 Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall take into account the relevant requirements of this Part and the guidance given in Part B of this Code.

6 The Administration may omit knowledge requirements for types of propulsion machinery other than those machinery installations for which the certificate to be awarded shall be valid. A certificate awarded on such a basis shall not be valid for any category of machinery installation which has been omitted until the engineer officer proves to be competent in these items. Any such limitation shall be stated on the certificate and in the endorsement.

7 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-III/2.

Near coastal voyages

8. The level of knowledge, understanding and proficiency required under the different sections listed in column 2 of table A-III/2 and the requirements of paragraphs 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 of Regulation III/3 may be varied for officers of ships engaged on near-coastal voyages, as considered necessary, bearing in mind the effect on the safety of all ships which may be operating in the same waters. Any such limitation shall be stated on the certificate and in the endorsement.

Section A-III/4

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of ratings forming part of a watch in a manned engine-room or designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned engine-room

Standard of competence

1 Every rating forming part of an engine-room watch on a seagoing ship shall be required to demonstrate the competence to perform the marine engineering function at the support level, as specified in column 1 of table A-III/4.

2 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required of ratings forming part of an engine-room watch is listed in column 2 of table AIII/4.

3 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence specified in columns 3 and 4 of table A-III/4. The reference to "practical test" in column 3 may include approved shore-based training in which the students undergo practical testing.

4 Where there are no tables of competence for the support level in respect to certain functions, it remains the responsibility of the Administration to determine the appropriate training, assessment and certification requirements to be applied to personnel designated to perform those functions at the support level.

TABLE A-III/4

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE FOR RATINGS FORMING PART OF AN ENGINEERING WATCH

Function: Marine engineering at the support level

Column 1 Column 2Column 3Column 4 Competence Knowledge, Methods for Criteria for understanding and demonstrating evaluating proficiency competencecompetence

Carry out a watch Terms used in Assessment of Communications routine appropriate machinery spaces andevidence obtained are clear and to the duties of anames of machineryfrom one or moreconcise and rating forming part and equipment of the following: advice or of an engine-room clarification watch Engine-room .1 approved is sought from in-servicethe officer of Understand orders watchkeeping experience; orthe watch and be understood inprocedureswhere watch matters relevant to .2 approved information or watchkeeping Safe workinginstructions training dutiespractices as relatedare not to engine-roomship experience clearly operationsunderstood .3 practical test Basic environmental Maintenance, protection procedures hand-over and relief of the Use of appropriatewatch is in internalconformity communication systemwith accepted principles and Engine-room alarm procedures systems and ability to distinguish between the various alarms, with special reference to fire-extinguishing gas alarms

For keeping a boilerSafe operation of Assessment of Assessment of watch:boilers evidence obtained boiler from one or morecondition is Maintain the correctof the following: accurate and water levels andbased on steam pressures .1 approved relevant in-serviceinformation experience; oravailable from local and .2 approved remote training indicators and physical ship experience inspections

.3 practical test The sequence and timing of adjustments maintains safety and optimum efficiency

Operate emergency Knowledge ofAssessment of Initial action equipment and apply emergency dutiesevidence obtained on becoming emergency proceduresfromaware of an Escape routes fromdemonstration and emergency or machinery spacesapprovedabnormal in-servicesituation Familiarity with theexperience or conforms with location and use of approvedestablished fire-fighting procedures equipment in the training machinery spacesship experience Communications are clear and concise at all times and orders are acknowledged in a seamanlike manner

CHAPTER IV

STANDARDS REGARDING RADIO PERSONNEL

Section A-IV/1

Application

(No provisions)

Section A-IV/2

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of GMDSS radio personnel

Standard of competence

1 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification of GMDSS radio personnel shall be sufficient for radio personnel to carry out their radio duties. The knowledge required for obtaining each type of certificate defined in the Radio Regulations shall be in accordance with those regulations. In addition, every candidate for certification shall be required to demonstrate ability to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-IV/2.

2 The knowledge, understanding and proficiency for endorsement under the Convention, of certificates issued under the provisions of the Radio Regulations are listed in column 2 of table A-IV/2.

3 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-IV/2 shall be sufficient for the candidate to carry out his duties.

4 Every candidate shall provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence through:

.1 demonstration of competence to perform the tasks and duties and to assume responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-IV/2, in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of that table; and

.2 examination or continuous assessment as part of an approved course of training based on the material set out in column 2 of table A-IV/2.

TABLE A-IV/2

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE FOR GMDSS RADIO OPERATORS

Function: Radiocommunications at the operational level

Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 CompetenceKnowledge, Methods for Criteria for understanding anddemonstrating evaluating proficiency competence competence

Transmit andIn addition to the Examination and Transmission and receive requirements of theassessment of reception of information Radio Regulations, a evidence obtained communications using GMDSS knowledge of:from practicalcomplies with subsystems demonstration ofinternational and equipment .1 search and rescue operational regulations and and radiocommunications, procedures using: procedures and fulfillingincluding procedures are carried out the in the IMO Merchant.1 approved efficiently and functionalShip Search andequipment effectively requirementsRescue Manual of GMDSS(MERSAR) .2 GMDSSEnglish language communication messages .2 the means tosimulator, whererelevant to the prevent theappropriate safety of the transmission of falseship and persons distress alerts and.3on board and the procedures toradiocommunicationprotection of mitigate the effects laboratorythe marine of such alerts equipment environment are correctly .3 ship reportinghandled systems

.4 radio medical services

.5 use of the International Code of Signals and the Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary as replaced by the Standard Marine Communication Phrases

.6 the English language both written and spoken for the communication of information relevant to safety of life at sea

Note: This requirement may be reduced in the case of the Restricted Radio Operator Certificate

Provide radio The provision of Examination and Response is services in radio services inassessment of carried out emergencies emergencies such as: evidence obtained efficiently and from practicaleffectively .1 abandon shipdemonstration of operational .2 fire on board shipprocedures using:

.3 partial of full .1 approved breakdown of radio equipment installations .2 GMDSS Preventive measurescommunication for the safety ofsimulator, where ship and personnel inappropriate connection with hazards related to .3 radio equipment, radiocommunication including electrical laboratory and non-ionising equipment radiation hazards

CHAPTER V

STANDARDS REGARDING SPECIAL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONNEL ON CERTAIN TYPES OF SHIPS

Section A-V/1

Mandatory minimum requirements for the training and qualifications of masters, officers and ratings on tankers

Tanker familiarization course

1 The tanker familiarization course referred to in paragraph 1.2 of Regulation V/1 shall cover at lease the syllabus given in paragraphs 2 to 7 below.

Characteristics of cargoes

2 An outline treatment including practical demonstration of the physical properties of oil, chemicals and gases carried in bulk; vapour pressure/temperature relationship; influence of pressure on boiling temperature; explanation of saturated vapour pressure, diffusion, partial pressure, flammability limits, flashpoint and auto-ignition temperature; practical significance of flashpoint and lower flammable limit; simple explanation of types of electrostatic charge generation; chemical symbols and structures; elements of the chemistry of acids and bases and chemical reactions of well-known groupings sufficient to enable proper utilization of codes.

Toxicity

3 Simple explanation of principles and basic concepts; toxicity limits, both acute and chronic effects of toxicity, systemic poisons and irritants.

Hazards

4 An explanation of hazards including:

.1 explosion and flammability hazards, flammability limits and sources of ignition and explosion; .2 health hazards including the dangers of skin contact, inhalation and ingestion; oxygen deficiency with particular reference to inert gas systems; harmful properties of cargo carried; accidents to personnel and associated first aid do's and don'ts;

.3 hazards to the environment, covering: the effect on human and marine life from the release of oil, chemicals or gases; effect of specific gravity and solubility; danger from vapour cloud drift; effect of vapour pressure and atmospheric conditions;

.4 reactivity hazards; self-reaction; polymerization; effects of temperature; impurities as catalysts; reaction with air, water and other chemicals; and

.5 corrosion hazards, covering: the dangers to personnel; attacks on constructional materials; effects of concentration and evolution of hydrogen.

Hazard control

5 Inerting, water padding, drying agents and monitoring techniques; anti-static measures; ventilation; segregation; cargo inhibition and the importance of compatibility of materials.

Safety equipment and protection of personnel

6 The function and calibration of measuring instruments and similar equipment; specialized fire-extinguishing appliances; breathing apparatus and tanker evacuating equipment; safe use of protective clothing and equipment; use of resuscitators and other rescue and escape equipment.

Pollution prevention

7 Procedures to be followed to prevent air and water pollution and measures to be taken in the event of spillage, including the need to:

.1 immediately report all relevant information to the appropriate officials when a spill is detected or when a malfunction has occurred which poses a risk of a spill;

.2 promptly notify shore-based response personnel; and

.3 properly implement shipboard spill containment procedures.

OIL TANKER TRAINING PROGRAM

8 The specialized training program referred to in paragraph 2.2 of Regulation V/1 appropriate to duties on oil tankers shall provide theoretical and practical knowledge of the subjects specified in paragraphs 9 to 14 below.

Regulations and codes of practice

9 Familiarization with the appropriate provisions of relevant international conventions; relevant international and national codes; the IMO Manual on Oil Pollution; relevant tanker safety guides and relevant port regulations as commonly applied.

Design and equipment of oil tankers

10 Familiarization with piping, pumping, tank and deck arrangements; types of cargo pumps and their application to various types of cargo; tank cleaning, gas-freeing and inerting systems; cargo tank venting and accommodation ventilation; gauging systems and alarms; cargo heating systems; and the safety aspects of electrical systems.

Cargo characteristics

11 Knowledge of the chemical and physical properties of different oil cargoes.

Ship operations

12 Cargo calculations; loading and discharging plans; loading and discharge procedures including ship-to-ship transfers; checklists; use of monitoring equipment; importance of proper supervision of personnel; gas-freeing operations and tank cleaning operations; where appropriate, crude oil washing procedures and the operation and maintenance of inert gas systems; control of entry into pump-rooms and enclosed spaces; use of gas detecting and safety equipment; load-on-top and proper ballasting and de-ballasting procedures; air and water pollution prevention.

Repair and maintenance

13 Precautions to be taken before and during repair and maintenance work, including that affecting pumping, piping, electrical and control systems; safety factors necessary in the performance of hot work; control of hot work and proper hot work procedures.

Emergency operations

14 The importance of developing ship emergency plans; cargo operations emergency shutdown; action in the event of failure of services essential to cargo; fire-fighting on oil tankers; action following collision, stranding or spillage; medical first aid procedures and the use of resuscitation equipment; use of breathing apparatus for safe entry into and rescue from enclosed spaces.

CHEMICAL TANKER TRAINING PROGRAM

15 The specialized training program referred to in paragraph 2.2 of Regulation V/1 appropriate to duties on chemical tankers shall provide theoretical and practical knowledge of the subjects specified in paragraphs 16 to 21 below.

Regulations and codes of practice

16 Familiarization with relevant international conventions, and relevant IMO and national codes and with relevant tanker safety guides and relevant port regulations as commonly applied.

Design and equipment of chemical tankers

17 A brief description of specialized piping, pumping and tank arrangements, overflow control; types of cargo pumps and their application to various types of cargo; tank cleaning and gas-freeing systems; cargo tank venting; vapour return systems; accommodation ventilation, airlocks; gauging systems and alarms; tank temperature control systems and alarms; the safety factors of electrical systems.

Cargo characteristics

18 Sufficient knowledge of liquid chemical cargo characteristics to allow proper use of relevant cargo safety guides.

Ship operations

19 Cargo calculations; loading and discharging plans; loading and discharge procedures; vapour return systems; checklists; use of monitoring equipment; gas-freeing operations and tank cleaning operations including proper use of absorption and wetting agents and detergents; use and maintenance of inert atmospheres; control of entry into pump-rooms and enclosed spaces; use of detecting and safety equipment; disposal of waste and washings.

Repair and maintenance

20 Precautions to be taken before the repair and maintenance of pumping, piping, electrical and control systems.

Emergency operations

21 The importance of developing ship emergency plans; cargo operations emergency shutdown; action in the event of failure of services essential to cargo; fire-fighting on chemical tankers; action following collision, stranding or spillage; medical first aid procedures and the use of resuscitation and decontamination equipment; use of breathing apparatus and escape equipment; safe entry into and rescue from enclosed spaces.

LIQUEFIED GAS TANKER TRAINING PROGRAM

22 The specialized training program referred to in paragraph 2.2 of Regulation V/1 appropriate to the duties on liquefied gas tankers shall provide theoretical and practical knowledge of the subjects specified in paragraphs 23 to 34 below.

Regulations and codes of practice

23 Familarization with relevant international conventions and relevant IMO, national and industry codes.

24 Familiarization with the ship design and equipment of liquefied gas tankers; types of liquefied gas tankers; cargo containment systems (construction, surveys); cargo-handling equipment (pumps, piping systems); cargo conditioning systems (warm-up, cool-down); tank atmosphere control systems (inert gas, nitrogen); instrumentation of cargo containment and handling systems; fire-fighting system and safety and rescue equipment.

Fire-fighting

25 Advanced practical fire-fighting techniques and tactics applicable to gas tankers, including the use of water-spray systems.

Chemistry and physics

26 An introduction to basic chemistry and physics as it relates to the safe carriage of liquefied gases in bulk in ships covering:

.1 the properties and characteristics of liquefied gases and their vapours, including the definition of gas; simple gas laws; the gas equation; density of gases; diffusion and mixing of gases; compression of gases; liquefaction of gases; refrigeration of gases; critical temperature; the practical significance of flashpoint; upper and lower explosive limits; auto-ignition temperature; compatibility of gases; reactivity; polymerization and inhibitors.

.2 the properties of single liquids including densities of liquids and vapours; variation with temperature; vapour pressure and temperature; enthalpy; vaporization and boiling liquids; and

.3 the nature and properties of solutions including the solubility of gases in liquids; miscibility between liquids and effects of temperature change; densities of solutions and dependence on temperature and concentration; effects of dissolved substances on melting and boiling points; hydrates, their formation and dispersion; hygroscopicity; drying of air and other gases; dew point and low temperature effects.

Health hazards

27 Familiarization with health hazards relevant to the carriage of liquefied gas covering:

.1 toxicity including the modes by which liquefied gases and their vapours may be toxic; the toxic properties of inhibitors and of products of combustion of both materials of construction and of liquefied gases carried; acute and chronic effects of toxicity, systemic poisons and irritants; and the Threshold Limiting Value (TLV);

.2 hazards of skin contact, inhalation and ingestion; and

.3 medical first aid and administering of antidotes.

Cargo containment

28 Principles of containment systems; rules; surveys; tank construction, materials, coatings, insulation and compatibility.

Pollution

29 Hazards to human life and to the marine environment; the effect of specific gravity and solubility; danger from vapour cloud drift and the jettisoning of cryogenic liquids.

Cargo handling systems

30 A description of the main types of pumps and pumping arrangements and vapour return systems, piping systems and valves; and explanation of pressure, vacuum, suction, flow, head; filters and strainers; expansion devices; flame screens; commonly used inert gases; storage, generation and distribution systems; temperature and pressure monitoring systems; cargo vent systems; liquid re-circulation and re-liquefaction systems; cargo gauging, instrumentation systems and alarms; gas detection and monitoring systems; CO2 monitoring systems; cargo boil-off systems and auxiliary systems.

Ship operating procedures

31 Loading and discharging preparations and procedures; check lists; cargo condition maintenance on passage and in harbour; segregation of cargoes and procedures for cargo transfer; changing cargoes, tank cleaning procedures; cargo sampling; ballasting and de-ballasting; warm up and gas-freeing procedures; and procedures for cool-down of a gas-free system from ambient temperature and the safety precautions involved.

Safety practices and equipment

32 The function, calibration and use of portable measuring instruments; fire-fighting equipment and procedures; breathing apparatus; resuscitators; escape sets; rescue equipment; protective clothing and equipment; entry into enclosed spaces; precautions to be observed before and during repair and maintenance of cargo and control systems; supervision of personnel during potentially hazardous operations; types and principles of certified safe electrical equipment and sources of ignition.

Emergency procedures

33 The importance of developing ship emergency plans; emergency shutdown of cargo operations; emergency cargo valve closing systems; action to be taken in the event of failure of systems or services essential to cargo; and action to be taken following collision or stranding, spillage and envelopment of the ship in toxic or flammable vapour.

General principles of cargo operations

34 Inerting cargo tank and void spaces; tank cool down and loading; operations during loaded and ballasted voyages, discharging and tank stripping and emergency procedures, including pre-planned action in the event of leaks, fire, collision, stranding, emergency cargo discharge and personnel casualty.

Section A-V/2

Mandatory minimum requirements for the training and qualifications of masters, officers, ratings and other personnel on ro-ro passenger ships

Crowd management training

1 The crowd management training required by Regulation V/2, paragraph 4 for personnel designated on muster lists to assist passengers in emergency situations shall include, but not necessarily be limited to:

.1 awareness of life-saving appliance and control plans including:

.1.1 knowledge of muster lists and emergency instructions,

.1.2 knowledge of the emergency exits, and

.1.3 restrictions on the use of elevators;

.2 the ability to assist passengers en route to muster and embarkation stations including:

.2.1 the ability to give clear reassuring orders,

.2.2 the control of passengers in corridors, staircases and passage ways,

.2.3 maintaining escape routes clear of obstructions,

.2.4 methods available for evacuation of disabled persons and persons needing special assistance, and

.2.5 search of accommodation spaces;

.3 mustering procedures including:

.3.1 the importance of keeping order,

.3.2 the ability to use procedures for reducing and avoiding panic,

.3.3 the ability to use, where appropriate, passenger lists for evacuation counts, and

.3.4 the ability to ensure that the passengers are suitably clothed and have donned their lifejackets correctly.

Familiarization training

2 The familiarization training required by Regulation V/2, paragraph 5 shall at least ensure attainment of the abilities that are appropriate to the capacity to be filled and the duties and responsibilities to be taken up, as follows:

Design and operational limitations

.1 Ability to properly understand and observe any operational limitations imposed on the ship, and to understand and apply performance restrictions, including speed limitations in adverse weather, which are intended to maintain the safety of life, ship and cargo.

Procedures for opening, closing and securing hull openings

.2 Ability to apply properly the procedures established for the ship regarding the opening, closing and securing of bow, stern, the side doors and ramps and to correctly operate the related systems.

Legislation, codes and agreements affecting ro-ro passenger ships

.3 Ability to understand and apply international and national requirements for ro-ro passenger ships relevant to the ship concerned and the duties to be performed.

Stability and stress requirements and limitations

.4 Ability to take proper account of stress limitations for sensitive parts of the ship such as bow doors and other closing devices that maintain watertight integrity and of special stability considerations which may affect the safety of ro-ro passenger ships.

Procedures for the maintenance of special equipment on ro-ro passenger ships

.5 Ability to apply properly the shipboard procedures for maintenance of equipment peculiar ro-ro passenger ships such as bow, stern and side doors and ramps, scuppers and associated systems.

Loading and cargo securing manuals and calculators

.6 Ability to make proper use of the loading and securing manuals in respect of all types of vehicles and rail cars where applicable, and to calculate and apply stress limitations for vehicle decks.

Dangerous cargo areas

.7 Ability to ensure proper observance of special precautions and limitations applying to designated dangerous cargo areas.

Emergency procedures

.8 Ability to ensure proper application of any special procedures to:

.8.1 prevent or reduce the ingress of water on vehicle decks,

.8.2 remove water from vehicle decks, and

.8.3 minimise effects of water on vehicle decks

Safety training for personnel providing direct service to passengers in passenger spaces

3 The additional safety training required by Regulation V/2, paragraph 6, shall at least ensure attainment of the abilities as follows:

Communication

.1 Ability to communicate with passengers during an emergency, taking into account:

.1.1 the language or languages appropriate to the principal nationalities of passengers carried on the particular route,

.1.2 the likelihood that an ability to use an elementary English vocabulary for basic instructions can provide a means of communicating with a passenger in need of assistance whether or not the passenger and crew member share a common language,

.1.3 the possible need to communicate during an emergency by some other means such as by demonstration, or hand signals, or calling attention to the location of instructions, muster stations, life-saving devices or evacuation routes, when oral communication is impractical,

.1.4 the extent to which complete safety instructions have been provided to passengers in their native language or languages, and

.1.5 the languages in which emergency announcements may be broadcast during an emergency or drill to convey critical guidance to passengers and to facilitate crew members in assisting passengers.

Life-saving appliances

.2 Ability to demonstrate to passengers the use of personal life-saving appliances.

Passenger safety, cargo safety and hull integrity training

4 The passenger safety, cargo safety and hull integrity training required by Regulation V/2, paragraph 7, for masters, chief mates, chief engineer officers, second engineer officers and persons assigned immediate responsibility for embarking and disembarking passengers, loading, discharging or securing cargo or for closing hull openings, shall at least ensure attainment of the abilities that are appropriate to their duties and responsibilities as follows:

Loading and embarkation procedures

.1 Ability to apply properly the procedures established for the ship regarding:

.1.1 loading and discharging vehicles, rail cars and other cargo transport units, including related communications,

.1.2 lowering and hoisting ramps,

.1.3 setting up and stowing retractable vehicle decks, and

.1.4 embarking and disembarking passengers with special attention to disabled persons and persons needing assistance.

Carriage of dangerous goods

.2 Ability to apply any special safeguards, procedures and requirements regarding the carriage of dangerous goods on board ro-ro passenger ships.

Securing cargoes

.3 Ability to:

.3.1 apply correctly the provisions of the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing to the vehicles, rail cars and other cargo transport units carried; and

.3.2 use properly the cargo securing equipment and materials provided, taking into account their limitations.

Stability, trim and stress calculations

.4 Ability to:

.4.1 make proper use of the stability and stress information provided,

.4.2 calculate stability and trim for different conditions of loading using the stability calculators or computer programs provided,

.4.3 calculate load factors for decks, and

.4.4 calculate the impact of ballast and fuel transfers on stability, trim and stress.

Opening, closing and securing hull openings

.5 Ability to:

.5.1 apply properly the procedures established for the ship regarding the opening, closing and securing of bow, stern and side doors and ramps and to correctly operate the associated systems, and

.5.2 conduct surveys on proper sealing.

Ro-ro deck atmosphere

.6 Ability to:

.6.1 use equipment, where carried, to monitor atmosphere in ro-ro cargo spaces, and

.6.2 apply properly the procedures established for the ship for ventilation of ro-ro cargo spaces during loading and discharging of vehicles, while on voyage and in emergencies.

Crisis management and human behaviour training

5 The crisis management and human behaviour training required by Regulation V/2, paragraph 8, for masters, chief mates, chief engineer officers, second engineer officers and any person having responsibility for the safety of passengers in emergency situations shall be to the satisfaction of the Administration based on standards developed by the Organization.

CHAPTER VI

STANDARDS REGARDING EMERGENCY, OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY, MEDICAL CARE AND SURVIVAL FUNCTIONS

Section A-VI/1

Mandatory minimum requirements for familiarization and basic safety training and instruction for all seafarers

Familiarization training

1 Before being assigned to shipboard duties, all persons employed or engaged on a seagoing ship other than passengers, shall receive approved familiarization training in personal survival techniques or receive sufficient information and instruction, taking account of the guidance given in Part B, to be able to:

.1 communicate with other persons on board on elementary safety matters and understanding safety information symbols, signs and alarm signals;

.2 know what to do if:

.2.1 a person falls overboard,

.2.2 fire or smoke is detected, or

.2.3 the fire or abandon ship alarm is sounded;

.3 identify muster and embarkation stations and emergency escape routes;

.4 locate and don life-jackets;

.5 raise the alarm and have basic knowledge of the use of portable fire extinguishers;

.6 take immediate action upon encountering an accident or other medical emergency before seeking further medical assistance on board; and

.7 close and open the fire weathertight and watertight doors fitted in the particular ship other than those for hull openings.

Basic training

2 Seafarers employed or engaged in any capacity on board ship on the business of that ship as part of the ship's complement with designated safety or pollution prevention duties in the operation of the ship shall, before being assigned to any shipboard duties:

.1 receive appropriate approved basic training or instruction in:

.1.1 personal survival techniques as set out in table A-VI/1-1,

.1.2 fire prevention and fire-fighting as set out in table A-VI/1-2,

.1.3 elementary first-aid as set out in table A-VI/1-3, and

.1.4 personal safety and social responsibilities as set out in table A-VI/1-4.

.2 be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of tables A-VI/1-1, A-VI/1-2, A-VI/1-3 and A-VI/1-4 within the previous five years through:

.2.1 demonstration of competence, in accordance with the methods and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of those tables; and

.2.2 examination or continuous assessment as part of an approved training program in the subjects listed in column 2 of those tables.

3 The Administration may, in respect of ships other than passenger ships of more than 500 gross tonnage engaged on international voyages and tankers, if it considers that a ship's size and the length or character of its voyage are such as to render the application of the full requirements of this Section unreasonable or impracticable, exempt to that extent the seafarers on such a ship or class of ships from some of the requirements, bearing in mind the safety of people on board, the ship and property and the protection of the marine environment.

TABLE A-VI/1-1

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE IN PERSONAL SURVIVAL TECHNIQUES

Column 1Column 2 Column 3Column 4 Competence Knowledge,Methods for Criteria for understanding anddemonstrating evaluating proficiencycompetencecompetence

Survive at sea Types of emergencyAssessment ofAction taken on in the event situations which mayevidence obtainedidentifying of shipoccur, such asfrom approvedmuster signals is abandonmentcollision, fire,instruction or appropriate to founderingduring attendancethe indicated at an approved emergency and Types of life-savingcourse or approved complies with appliances normally in-service established carried on shipsexperience and procedures examination, Equipment in survival includingThe timing and craft practicalsequence of demonstration of individual Location of personalcompetence to: actions are life-savingappropriate to appliances.1 don a the prevailing life-jacketcircumstance and Principles concerningconditions and survival including: .2 don and use anminimize immersion suit potential dangers .1 value ofand threats to training and.3 safely jump survival from a height into drillsthe waterMethod of boarding survival .2 personal .4 right ancraft is protective clothing inverted liferaftappropriate and and equipment while wearing aavoids dangers to life-jacketother survivors .3 need to be ready for any emergency .5 swim whileInitial actions wearing aafter leaving the .4 actions to belife-jacketship and taken when called to procedures and survival craft.6 keep afloat actions in water stationswithout aminimize threats life-jacketto survival .5 actions to be taken when required .7 board a to abandon ship survival craft from ship and .6 actions to bewater while taken when in the wearing a water life-jacket

.7 actions to be.8 take initial taken when aboard a actions on survival craftboarding survival craft to enhance .8 main dangers tochance of survival survivors .9 stream a drogue or sea anchor

.10 operate survival craft equipment

.11 operate location devices, including radio equipment

TABLE A-VI/1-2

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE IN FIRE PREVENTION AND FIRE-FIGHTING

Column 1 Column 2Column 3Column 4 Competence Knowledge,Methods forCriteria for understanding and demonstratingevaluating proficiencycompetencecompetence

Minimize the ShipboardAssessment ofInitial actions on risk of fire fire-fightingevidence obtainedbecoming aware of and maintain a organization from approvedan emergency state ofinstruction or conform with readiness to Location ofattendance at an accepted practices respond to fire-fightingapproved courseand procedures emergencyappliances and situations emergency escapeAction taken on involving fire routesidentifying muster signals is The elements of appropriate to the fire andindicated explosion (theemergency and fire triangle)complies with established Types and sources procedures of ignition

Flammable materials, fire hazards and spread of fire

The need for constant vigilance

Actions to be taken on board ship

Fire and smoke detection and automatic alarm systems

Classification of fire and applicable extinguishing agents

Fight andFire-fightingAssessment ofClothing and extinguish equipment and itsevidence obtainedequipment are fireslocation on-boardfrom approvedappropriate to the instruction or nature of the Instruction in:during attendance at fire-fighting an approved course operations .1 fixed including practical installationsdemonstration in The timing and spaces which provide sequence of .2 firefighter's truly realisticindividual actions outfits are appropriate to training the prevailing .3 personalconditions (eg,circumstances and equipmentsimulated shipboardconditions conditions) and, .4 fire-fighting whenever possibleExtinguishment of appliances and and practical, infire is achieved equipmentdarkness, of the used appropriate ability to:procedures, .5 fire-fightingtechniques and methods.1 use various types fire-fighting of portable fire agents .6 fire-fighting extinguishers agentsBreathing .2 use apparatus .7 fire-fighting self-contained procedures and procedures breathing apparatustechniques comply with accepted .8 use of.3 extinguishpractices and breathingsmaller fires, eg, procedures apparatus forelectrical fires, fighting fires oil fires, propane and effectingfires rescues .4 extinguish extensive fires with water using jet and spray nozzles

.5 extinguish fires with foam, powder or any other suitable chemical agent

.6 enter and pass through with lifeline but without breathing apparatus a compartment into which high expansion foam has been injected

.7 fight fire in smoke-filled enclosed spaces wearing self-contained breathing apparatus

.8 extinguish fire with water fog, or any other suitable fire-fighting agent in an accommodation room or simulated engine-room with fire and heavy smoke

.9 extinguish oil fire with fog applicator and spray nozzles, dry chemical powder or foam applicators

.10 effect a rescue in a smoke-filled space wearing breathing apparatus

TABLE A-VI/1-3

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE IN ELEMENTARY FIRST AID

Column 1Column 2Column 3 Column 4 CompetenceKnowledge,Methods forCriteria for understanding and demonstratingevaluating proficiencycompetence competence

Take immediate Assessment ofAssessment of The manner and actin upon needs of evidence obtained timing of raising encountering ancasualties and from approved the alarm is accident orthreats to own instruction orappropriate to the other medicalsafety during attendance circumstances of emergency at an approvedthe accident or Appreciation ofcoursemedical emergency body structure and functionsThe identification of probable cause, Understanding of nature and extent immediateof injuries is measures to be prompt and complete taken in cases ofand the priority emergency, and sequence of including theactions is ability to:proportional to any potential threat to .1 positionlife casualty Risk of further .2 apply harm to self and resuscitationcasualty is techniques minimized at all times .3 control bleeding

.4 apply appropriate measures of basic shock management

.5 apply appropriate measures in event of burns and scalds, including accidents caused by electric current

.6 rescue and transport a casualty

.7 improvise bandages and use materials in emergency kit

TABLE A-VI/1-4

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE IN PERSONAL SAFETY AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Column 1 Column 2Column 3 Column 4 CompetenceKnowledge, Methods forCriteria for understanding and demonstratingevaluating proficiency competence competence

Comply withTypes of emergencyAssessment ofInitial actin on emergencywhich may occur,evidence becoming aware of procedures such as collision,obtained froman emergency fire, founderingapproved conforms to instruction or established Knowledge ofduring emergency shipboard attendance at an response contingency plans approved courseprocedures for response to emergenciesInformation given on raising alarm Emergency signalsis prompt, and specific dutiesaccurate, allocated to crewcomplete and members in the clear muster list; muster stations; correct use of personal safety equipment

Action to take on discovering potential emergency, including fire, collision, foundering and ingress of water into the ship

Action to take on hearing emergency alarm signals

Value of training and drills

Knowledge of escape routes and internal communication and alarm systems

Take precautions Effects ofAssessment ofOrganizational to prevent operational orevidence procedures pollution of the accidental pollutionobtained fromdesigned to marine of the marine approved safeguard the environmentenvironment instruction or marine during environment are Basic environmental attendance at an observed at all protectionapproved coursetimes procedures

Observe safe Importance of Assessment ofSafe working workingadhering to safeevidence practices are practicesworking practices atobtained fromobserved and all times approved appropriate instruction or safety and Safety andduring protective protective devicesattendance at an equipment is available to protectapproved coursecorrectly used at against potentialall times hazards aboard ship

Precautions to be taken prior to entering enclosed spaces

Familiarization with international measures concerning accident prevention and occupational health

Understand Ability toAssessment ofCommunications orders and beunderstand orders evidence are clear and understood inand to communicateobtained fromeffective at all relation towith others inapproved times shipboard duties relation to instruction or shipboard dutiesduring attendance at an approved course

Contribute toImportance of Assessment ofExpected effective humanmaintaining goodevidence standards of work relationships on human and working obtained fromand behaviour are board ship relationships aboardapproved observed at all shipinstruction or times during Socialattendance at an responsibilities; approved course employment conditions; individual rights and obligations; dangers of drug and alcohol abuse

Section A-VI/2

Mandatory minimum requirements for the issue of certificates of proficiency in survival craft, rescue boats and fast rescue boats

Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats

Standard of competence

1 Every candidate for a certificate of proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats shall be required to demonstrate competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-VI/2-1.

2 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-VI/2-1 shall be sufficient to enable the candidate to launch and take charge of a survival craft or rescue boat in emergency situations.

3 Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall take account of the guidance given in Part B of this Code.

4 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence within the previous five years through:

.1 demonstration of competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-VI/2-1, in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of that table; and

.2 examination or continuous assessment as part of an approved training program covering the material set out in column 2 of table A-VI/2-1.

Proficiency in fast rescue boats

Standard of competence

5 Every candidate for a certificate of proficiency in fast rescue boats shall be required to demonstrate competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-VI/2-2.

6 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-VI/2-2 shall be sufficient to enable the candidate to launch and take charge of a fast rescue boat in emergency situations.

7 Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall take account of the guidance given in Part B of this Code.

8 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence within the previous five years through:

.1 demonstration of competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-VI/2-2, in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of that table; and

.2 examination or continuous assessment as part of an approved training program covering the material set out in column 2 of table A-VI/2-2.

TABLE A-VI/2-1

SPECIFICATION OF THE MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE IN SURVIVAL CRAFT AND RESCUE BOATS OTHER THAN FAST RESCUE BOATS

Column 1 Column 2 Column 3Column 4 Competence Knowledge,Methods for Criteria for understanding anddemonstrating evaluating proficiencycompetencecompetence

Take charge of aConstruction andAssessment of Preparation, survival craft or outfit of survivalevidence obtained boarding and rescue boat duringcraft and rescuefrom practicallaunching of and after launchboats and demonstration ofsurvival craft individual items of ability to: are within their equipment equipment .1 right an limitations and Particularinverted liferaft enable survival characteristics and while weaving a craft to clear facilities of life-jacket the ship safely survival craft and rescue boats.2 interpret theInitial actions markings on on leaving the Various types ofsurvival craft as ship minimize device used for to the number ofthreat to launching survivalpersons they aresurvival craft and rescueintended to carry boats Recovery of .3 give correct survival craft Methods ofcommands forand rescue boats launching survivallaunching and is within craft into a roughboarding survival equipment sea craft, clearing limitations the ship and Methods ofhandling and recovering survival disembarking craft persons from survival craft Action to be taken after leaving the .4 prepare and shipsafely launch survival craft Methods ofand clear the launching and ship's side recovering rescue quickly boats in a rough sea .5 safety recover survival craft and rescue boats

Using: inflatable liferaft and open or enclosed lifeboat with inboard engine

Operate a survivalMethods of starting Assessment of Propulsion is craft engineand operating a evidence obtained available and survival craftfrom practicalmaintained as engine and itsdemonstration ofrequired for accessories ability to startmanoeuvring together with the and operate an use of the fire inboard engine extinguisherfitted in an open providedor enclosed lifeboat

Manage survivorsHandling survival Assessment of Survival and survival craftcraft in roughevidence obtained management is after abandoningweather from practicalappropriate to shipdemonstration ofprevailing Use of painter, sea ability to: circumstances and anchor and allconditions other equipment .1 row and steer a boat and steer Apportionment ofby compass food and water in survival craft.2 use individual items of Action taken to equipment of maximizesurvival craft detectability and location of .3 rig devices to survival craftaid location

Method of helicopter rescue

Effects of hypothermia and its prevention; use of protective covers and garments including immersion suits and thermal protective aids

Use of rescue boats and motor lifeboats for marshalling liferafts and rescue of survivors and persons in the sea

Beaching survival craft

Use locatingRadio life-saving Assessment of Use and choice of devices, includingappliances carriedevidence obtained communication and communic-ation andin survival craft,from practicalsignalling signallingincluding satellite demonstration ofapparatus is apparatus and EPIRBs and SARTsability to: appropriate to pyrotechnicsprevailing Pyrotechnic .1 use portable circumstances and distress signalsradio equipment conditions for survival craft

.2 use signalling equipment, including pyrotechnics

Apply first aid toUse of the firstAssessment of Identification of survivors aid kit and evidence obtained the probable resuscitation from practicalcause, nature and techniquesdemonstration ofextent of ability to deal injuries or Management of with injuredcondition is injured persons,persons bothprompt and including control during and afteraccurate of bleeding and abandonment using shock first aid kit and Priority and resuscitation sequence of techniquestreatment minimizes any threat to life

TABLE A-VI/2-2

SPECIFICATION OF THE MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE IN FAST RESCUE BOATS

Column 1 Column 2Column 3 Column 4 CompetenceKnowledge,Methods forCriteria for understanding and demonstratingevaluating proficiencycompetence competence

Take charge of Construction and Assessment of Preparation, a fast rescueoutfit of fast rescueevidence obtained boarding, boat duringboats and individual from practicallaunching and and afteritems of their demonstration ofoperation of fast launch equipmentability to: rescue boats is within equipment Particular .1 control safe limitations characteristics andlaunching and facilities of fast recovery of a fast rescue boats rescue boat

Safety precautions .2 right a capsized during launch andfast rescue boat recovery of a fast rescue boat.3 handle a fast rescue boat in Procedures for prevailing weather righting a capsizedand sea conditions fast rescue boat .4 swim in special How to handle a fast equipment rescue boat in prevailing and .5 use adverse weather andcommunication and sea conditions signalling equipment between Navigational and the fast rescue safety equipment boat and a available in a fasthelicopter and a rescue boatship

Search patterns and.6 use the environmental factorsemergency equipment affecting theircarried execution .7 recover a Assessment of thecasualty from the readiness of fastwater and transfer rescue boats and a casualty to a related equipment forrescue helicopter immediate useor to a ship or to a place of safety Knowledge of the maintenance, .8 carry out search emergency repairs, patterns taking normal inflation and account of deflation of buoyancyenvironmental compartments offactors inflated fast rescue boats

Operate a fast Methods of startingAssessment of Engine is started rescue boatand operating a fast evidence obtained and operated as engine rescue boat engine from practicalrequired for and its accessoriesdemonstration ofmanoeuvring ability to start and operate a fast rescue boat engine

Section A-VI/3

Mandatory minimum training in advanced fire-fighting

Standard of competence

1 Seafarers designated to control fire-fighting operations shall have successfully completed advanced training in techniques for fighting fire, with particular emphasis on organization, tactics and command, and shall be required to demonstrate competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-VI/3.

2 The level of knowledge and understanding of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-VI/3 shall be sufficient for the effective control of fire-fighting operations on board ship.

3 Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall take account of the guidance given in Part B of this Code.

4 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence within the previous five years, in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-VI/3.

TABLE A-VI/3

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF COMPETENCE IN ADVANCED FIRE-FIGHTING

Column 1 Column 2Column 3 Column 4 Competence Knowledge,Methods for Criteria for understanding and demonstrating evaluating proficiencycompetence competence

Control Fire-fighting PracticalActions taken to fire-fighting procedures at sea and exercises andcontrol fires operationsin port withinstructionare based on a aboard shipsparticular emphasis conducted underfull and on organization,approved and truly accurate tactics and command realisticassessment of the incident Use of water for training using all fire-extinguishing, conditions (eg:available the effect on shipsimulatedsources of stability,shipboardinformation precautions and conditions) and, corrective procedures whenever possibleThe order of and practicable, priority, timing Communication and in darknessand sequence of coordination duringactions are fire-fightingappropriate to operations the overall requirements of Ventilation control, the incident and including smoketo minimize extractordamage and potential damage Control of fuel andto the ship, electrical systems injuries to personnel and Fire-fighting processimpairment of hazards (dry the operational distillation,effectiveness of chemical reactions,the ship boiler uptake fires, etc) Transmission of information is Fire-fightingprompt, involving dangerousaccurate, goodscomplete and clear Fire precautions and hazards associated Personal safety with the storage and during fire handling of materialscontrol (paints, etc)activities is safeguarded at Management and all times control of injured persons

Procedures for co-ordination with shore-based fire fighters

Organize andPreparation ofPracticalComposition and train firecontingency plans exercises andorganization of parties instructionfire control Composition and conduct underparties ensure allocation of approved and truly the prompt and personnel to fire realisticeffective partiesimplementation training of emergency Strategies andconditions, eg,plans and tactics for control simulatedprocedures of fires in various shipboard parts of the ship conditions

Inspect and Fire detectionPracticalOperational service firesystems; fixedexercises usingeffectiveness of detection and fire-extinguishingapproved equipment all fire extinguishing systems; portable and and systems in a detection and systems and mobilerealisticextinguishing equipment fire-extinguishing systems and equipment including training equipment is appliances, pumps and environmentmaintained at rescue, salvage, lifeall times in support, personalaccordance with protective and performance communicationspecifications equipmentand legislative requirements Requirements for statutory and classification surveys

Investigate and Assessment of cause PracticalCauses of fire compile reports of incidentsexercises in a are identified on incidentsinvolving firerealisticand the involving fire effectiveness of training counter measures environmentare evaluated

Section A-VI/4

Mandatory minimum requirements related to medical first aid and medical care

Standard of competence for seafarers designated to provide medical first aid on board ship

1 Every seafarer who is designated to provide medical first aid on board ship shall be required to demonstrate the competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-VI/4-1.

2 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-VI/4-1 shall be sufficient to enable the designated seafarer to take immediate effective action in the case of accidents or illness likely to occur on board ship.

3 Every candidate for certification under the provisions of Regulation VI/4, paragraph 1 shall be required to provide evidence that the required standard of competence has been achieved in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-VI/4-1.

Standard of competence for seafarers designated to take charge of medical care on board ship

4 Every seafarer who is designated to take charge of medical care on board ship shall be required to demonstrate the competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-VI/4-2.

5 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-VI/4-2 shall be sufficient to enable the designated seafarer to take immediate effective action in the case of accidents or illness likely to occur on board ship.

6 Every candidate for certification under the provisions of Regulation VI/4, paragraph 2 shall be required to provide evidence that the required standard of competence has been achieved in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-VI/4-2.

TABLE A-VI/4-1

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF PROFICIENCY IN MEDICAL FIRST AID

Column 1 Column 2 Column 3Column 4 Competence Knowledge, Methods forCriteria for understanding anddemonstratingevaluating proficiency competencecompetence

ApplyFirst aid kit Assessment of The identification immediateevidence obtained of probable cause, first aid in Body structure andfrom practicalnature extent of the event of functioninstruction injuries is prompt, accident orcomplete and illness on Toxicological conforms to current boardhazards on board, first aid practice including use of the Medical First Risk of harm to self Aid Guide for Use and others is in Accidentsminimized at all Involving times Dangerous Goods (MFAG) or its Treatment of nationalinjuries and the equivalentpatients condition is appropriate, Examination ofconforms to casualty or recognized first aid patient practice and international Spinal injuries guidelines

Burns, scalds and effects of cold fractures, dislocations and muscular injuries

Medical care of rescued persons

Radio-medical advice

Pharmacology

Sterilisation

Cardiac arrest, drowning and asphyxia

TABLE A-VI/4-2

SPECIFICATION OF MINIMUM STANDARD OF PROFICIENCY FOR PERSONS IN CHARGE OF MEDICAL CARE ON BOARD SHIP

Column 1Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 CompetenceKnowledge,Methods forCriteria for understanding anddemonstratingevaluating proficiencycompetence competence

Provide medical Care of casualtyAssessment of Identification of care to the sickinvolving:evidence obtained symptoms is based and injured from practicalon the concepts of while they.1 head and spinalinstruction and clinical remain on board injuriesdemonstration examination and medical history .2 injuries of ear, Where nose, throat andpracticable,Protection against eyesapprovedinfection and practical spread of diseases .3 external and experience at a is complete and internal bleeding hospital or effective similar .4 burns, scaldsestablishment Personal attitude and frostbite is calm, confident and reassuring .5 fractures, dislocations andTreatment of injury muscular injuries or condition is appropriate and .6 wounds, woundconforms to healing and accepted medical infection practice and relevant national .7 pain reliefand international medical guides .8 techniques of sewing and clamping The dosage and application of .9 management ofdrugs and acute abdominal medication complies conditionswith manufacturers' recommendations and .10 minor surgicalaccepted medical treatment practice

.11 dressing andThe significance of bandaging changes in patients' condition Aspects of nursing: is promptly recognized .1 general principles

.2 nursing care

Diseases, including:

.1 medical conditions and emergencies

.2 sexually transmitted diseases

.3 tropical and infectious diseases

Alcohol and drug abuse

Dental care

Gynaecology, pregnancy and childbirth

Medical care of rescued persons

Death at sea

Hygiene

Disease prevention including

.1 disinfection, disinfestation, de-ratting

.2 vaccinations

Keeping records and copies of applicable regulations:

.1 keeping medical records

.2 international and national maritime medical regulations

Participate inExternalClinical co-ordinatedassistance, examination schemes for including:procedures are medical complete and comply assistance to .1 radio-medicalwith instructions ships advicereceived

.2 transportation The method and of the ill andpreparation for injured, includingevacuation is in helicopteraccordance with evacuationrecognized procedures and is .3 medical care ofdesigned to sick seafarersmaximize the involving welfare of the co-operation with patient port health authorities orProcedures for outpatient wards in seeking portradio-medical advice conform to established practice and recommendations

CHAPTER VII

STANDARDS REGARDING ALTERNATIVE CERTIFICATION

Section A-VII/1

Issue of alternative certificates

1 Every candidate for certification at the operational level under the provisions of Chapter VII of the Annex to the Convention shall be required to complete relevant education and training and meet the standard of competence for all the functions prescribed in either table A-II/1 or table A-III/1. Functions specified in tables A-II/1 or A-III/1 respectively may be added provided the candidate completes, as appropriate, additional relevant education and training and meets the standards of competence prescribed in those tables for the functions concerned.

2 Every candidate for certification at the management level as the person having command of a ship of 500 gross tonnage or more, or the person upon whom the command of such a ship will fall in the event of the incapacity of the person in command, shall be required in addition to compliance with the standard of competence specified in table A-II/1 to complete relevant education and training and meet the standards of competence for all of the functions prescribed in table A-II/2. Functions specified in the tables of Chapter III of this Part may be added provided the candidate completes, as appropriate, additional relevant education and training and meets the standards of competence prescribed in those tables for the functions concerned.

3 Every candidate for certification at the management level as the person responsible for the mechanical propulsion of a ship powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW or more, or the person upon whom such responsibility will fall in the event of the incapacity of the person responsible for the mechanical propulsion of the ship, shall be required, in addition to compliance with the standard of competence specified in table A-III/1, to complete relevant education and training and meet the standards of competence for all of the functions prescribed in table A-III/2, as appropriate. Functions specified in the tables of Chapter II of this Part may be added provided the candidate completes, as appropriate, additional relevant education and training and meets the standards of competence prescribed in those tables for the functions concerned.

4 Every candidate for certification at the support level in navigation or marine engineering shall comply with the standard of competence prescribed in table A-II/4 or A-III/4 of this Part, as appropriate.

Section A-VII/2

Certification of seafarers

1 In accordance with the requirements of Regulation VII/1, paragraph 1.3, every candidate for certification under the provisions of Chapter VII at operational level in functions specified in tables A-II/1 or A-III/1 shall:

.1 have approved seagoing service of not less than one year, which service shall include a period of at least six months performing engine-room duties under the supervision of a qualified engineer officer and, where the function of navigation is required, a period of at least six months performing bridge watchkeeping duties under the supervision of a qualified bridge watchkeeping officer; and

.2 have completed, during this service, on-board training programs approved as meeting the relevant requirements of Sections A-II/1 and A-III/1 and documented in an approved training record book.

2 Every candidate for certification under the provisions of Chapter VII at the management level in a combination of functions specified in tables A-II/2 and A-III/2, shall have approved seagoing service related to the functions to be shown in the endorsement to the certificate as follows:

.1 for persons other than those having command or responsibility for the mechanical propulsion of a ship - 12 months performing duties at the operational level related to Regulation III/2 or III/3 as appropriate and, where the function of navigation at the management level is required, at least 12 months performing bridge watchkeeping duties at the operational level;

.2 for those having command or the responsibility for the mechanical propulsion of a ship - not less than 48 months including the provisions in paragraph 2.1 of this Section performing, as a certificated officer, duties related to the functions to be shown in the endorsement to the certificate, of which 24 months shall be served performing functions set out in table A-II/1 and 24 months shall be served performing functions set out in tables A-III/1 and A-III/2.

Section A-VII/3

Principles governing the issue of alternative certificates

(No provisions)

CHAPTER VIII

STANDARDS REGARDING WATCHKEEPING

Section A-VIII/1

Fitness for duty

1 All persons who are assigned duty as officer in charge of a watch or as a rating forming part of a watch shall be provided a minimum of 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period.

2 The hours of rest may be divided into no more than two periods, one of which shall be at least 6 hours in length.

3 The requirements for rest periods laid down in paragraphs 1 and 2 need not be maintained in the case of an emergency or drill or in other overriding operational conditions.

4 Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs 1 and 2, the minimum period of ten hours may be reduced to not less than 6 consecutive hours provided that any such reduction shall not extend beyond two days and no less than 70 hours of rest are provided each seven day period.

5 Administrations shall require that watch schedules be posted where they are easily accessible.

Section A-VIII/2

Watchkeeping arrangements and principles to be observed

PART 1 - CERTIFICATION

1 The officer in charge of the navigational or deck watch shall be duly qualified in accordance with the provisions of Chapter II, or Chapter VII appropriate to the duties related to navigational or deck watchkeeping .

2 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall be duly qualified in accordance with the provisions of Chapter III, or Chapter VII appropriate to the duties related to engineering watchkeeping .

PART 2 - VOYAGE PLANNING

General requirements

3 The intended voyage be planned in advance taking into consideration all pertinent information and any course laid down shall be checked before the voyage commences.

4 The chief engineer officer shall, in consultation with the master, determine in advance the needs of the intended voyage, taking into consideration the requirements for fuel, water, lubricants, chemicals, expendable and other spare parts, tools, supplies and any other requirements.

Planning prior to each voyage

5 Prior to each voyage the master of every ship shall ensure that the intended route from the port of departure to the first port of call is planned using adequate and appropriate charts and other nautical publications necessary for the intended voyage, containing accurate, complete and up-to-date information regarding those navigational limitations and hazards which are of a permanent or predictable nature, and which are relevant to the safe navigation of the ship.

Verification and display of planned route

6 When the route planning is verified taking into consideration all pertinent information, the planned route shall be clearly displayed on appropriate charts, and shall be continuously available to the officer in charge of the watch who shall verify each course to be followed prior to using it during the voyage.

Deviation from planned route

7 If a decision is made, during a voyage, to change the next port of call of the planned route, or if it is necessary for the ship to deviate substantially from the planned route for other reasons, then an amended route shall be planned prior to deviating substantially from the route originally planned.

PART 3 - WATCHKEEPING AT SEA

Principles applying to watchkeeping generally

8 Parties shall direct the attention of companies, masters, chief engineer officers and watchkeeping personnel to the following principles which shall be observed to ensure that safe watches are maintained at all times.

9 The master of every ship is bound to ensure that watchkeeping arrangements are adequate for maintaining a safe navigational watch. Under the master's general direction, the officers of the navigational watch are responsible for navigating the ship safely during their periods of duty, when they will be particularly concerned with avoiding collision and stranding.

10 The chief engineer officer of every ship is bound, in consultation with the master, to ensure that watchkeeping arrangements are adequate to maintain a safe engineering watch.

Protection of marine environment

11 The master, officers and ratings shall be aware of the serious effects of operational or accidental pollution of the marine environment and shall take all possible precautions to prevent such pollution, particularly within the framework of relevant international and port regulations.

PART 3-1 - PRINCIPLES TO BE OBSERVED IN KEEPING A NAVIGATIONAL WATCH

12 The officer in charge of the navigational watch is the master's representative and is primarily responsible at all times for the safe navigation of the ship and for complying with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972.

Look-out

13 A proper look-out shall be maintained at all times in compliance with Rule 5 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 and shall serve the purpose of:

.1 maintaining a continuous state of vigilance by sight and hearing as well as by all other available means, with regard to any significant change in the operating environment;

.2 fully appraising the situation and the risk of collision, stranding and other dangers to navigation; and

.3 detecting ships or aircraft in distress, shipwrecked persons, wrecks, debris and other hazards to safe navigation.

14 The look-out must be able to give full attention to the keeping of a proper look-out and no other duties shall be undertaken or assigned which could interfere with that task.

15 The duties of the look-out and helmsperson are separate and the helmsperson shall not be considered to be the look-out while steering, except in small ships where an unobstructed all-round view is provided at the steering position and there is no impairment of night vision or other impediment to the keeping of a proper look-out. The officer in charge of the navigational watch may be the sole look-out in daylight provided that on each such occasion:

.1 the situation has been carefully assessed and it has been established without doubt that it is safe to do so;

.2 full account has been taken of all relevant factors including, but not limited to:

- state of weather,

- visibility,

- traffic density,

- proximity of dangers to navigation, and

- the attention necessary when navigating in or near traffic separation schemes; and

.3 assistance is immediately available to be summoned to the bridge when any change in the situation so requires.

16 In determining that the composition of the navigational watch is adequate to ensure that a proper look-out can continuously be maintained, the master shall take into account all relevant factors, including those described in this Section of the Code, as well as the following factors:

.1 visibility, state of weather and sea;

.2 traffic density, and other activities occurring in the area in which the vessel is navigating;

.3 the attention necessary when navigating in or near traffic separation schemes or other routeing measures;

.4 the additional workload caused by the nature of the ship's functions, immediate operating requirements and anticipated manoeuvres;

.5 the fitness for duty of any crew members on call who are assigned as members of the watch;

.6 knowledge of and confidence in the professional competence of the ship's officers and crew;

.7 the experience of each officer of the navigational watch, and the familiarity of that officer with the ship's equipment, procedures, and manoeuvring capability;

.8 activities taking place on board the ship at any particular time, including radiocommunication activities and the availability of assistance to be summoned immediately to the bridge when necessary;

.9 the operational status of bridge instrumentation and controls, including alarm systems;

.10 rudder and propeller control and ship manoeuvring characteristics;

.11 the size of the ship and the field of vision available from the conning position;

.12 the configuration of the bridge, to the extent such configuration might inhibit a member of the watch from detecting by sight or hearing any external development; and

.13 any other relevant standard, procedure or guidance relating to watchkeeping arrangements and fitness for duty which has been adopted by the Organization.

Watch arrangements

17 When deciding the composition of the watch on the bridge, which may include appropriately qualified ratings, the following factors, inter alia, shall be taken into account:

.1 at no time shall the bridge be left unattended;

.2 weather conditions, visibility and whether there is daylight or darkness;

.3 proximity of navigational hazards which may make it necessary for the officer in charge of the watch to carry out additional navigational duties;

.4 use and operational condition of navigational aids such as radar or electronic position-indicating devices and any other equipment affecting the safe navigation of the ship;

.5 whether the ship is fitted with automatic steering;

.6 whether there are radio duties to be performed;

.7 unmanned machinery space (UMS) controls, alarms and indicators provided on the bridge, procedures for their use and limitations; and

.8 any unusual demands on the navigational watch that may arise as a result of special operational circumstances.

Taking over the watch

18 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall not hand over the watch to the relieving officer if there is reason to believe that the latter is not capable of carrying out the watchkeeping duties effectively, in which case the master shall be notified.

19 The relieving officer shall ensure that the members of the relieving watch are fully capable of performing their duties, particularly as regards their adjustment to night vision. Relieving officers shall not take over the watch until their vision is fully adjusted to the light conditions.

20 Prior to taking over the watch relieving officers shall satisfy themselves as to the ship's estimated or true position and confirm its intended track, course and speed, and UMS controls as appropriate and shall note any dangers to navigation expected to be encountered during their watch.

21 Relieving officers shall personally satisfy themselves regarding the:

.1 standing orders and other special instructions of the master relating to navigation of the ship;

.2 position, course, speed and draught of the ship;

.3 prevailing and predicted tides, currents, weather, visibility and the effect of these factors upon course and speed;

.4 procedures for the use of main engines to manoeuvre when the main engines are on bridge control; and

.5 navigational situation, including but not limited to:

.5.1 the operational condition of all navigational and safety equipment being used or likely to be used during the watch,

.5.2 the errors of gyro and magnetic compasses,

.5.3 the presence and movement of ships in sight or known to be in the vicinity,

.5.4 the conditions and hazards likely to be encountered during the watch, and

.5.5 the possible effects of heel, trim, water density and squat on under keel clearance.

22 If at any time the officer in charge of the navigational watch is to be relieved when a manoeuvre or other action to avoid any hazard is taking place, the relief of that officer shall be deferred until such action has been completed.

Performing the navigational watch

23 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall:

.1 keep the watch on the bridge;

.2 in no circumstances leave the bridge until properly relieved;

.3 continue to be responsible for the safe navigation of the ship, despite the presence of the master on the bridge, until informed specifically that the master has assumed that responsibility and this is mutually understood; and

.4 notify the master when in any doubt as to what action to take in the interest of safety.

24 During the watch the course steered, position and speed shall be checked at sufficiently frequent intervals, using any available navigational aids necessary, to ensure that the ship follows the planned course.

25 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall have full knowledge of the location and operation of all safety and navigational equipment on board the ship and shall be aware and take account of the operating limitations of such equipment.

26 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall not be assigned or undertake any duties which would interfere with the safe navigation of the ship.

27 Officers of the navigational watch shall make the most effective use of all navigational equipment at their disposal.

28 When using radar, the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall bear in mind the necessity to comply at all times with the provisions on the use of radar contained in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, in force.

29 In cases of need the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall not hesitate to use the helm, engines and sound signalling apparatus. However, timely notice of intended variations of engine speed shall be given where possible or effective use made of UMS engine controls provided on the bridge in accordance with the applicable procedures.

30 Officers of the navigational watch shall know the handling characteristics of their ship, including its stopping distances, and should appreciate that other ships may have different handling characteristics.

31 A proper record shall be kept during the watch of the movements and activities relating to the navigation of the ship.

32 It is of special importance that at all times the officer in charge of the navigational watch ensures that a proper look-out is maintained. In a ship with a separate chart room the officer in charge of the navigational watch may visit the chart room, when essential, for a short period for the necessary performance of navigational duties, but shall first ensure that it is safe to do so and that proper look-out is maintained.

33 Operational tests of shipboard navigational equipment shall be carried out at sea as frequently as practicable and as circumstances permit, in particular before hazardous conditions affecting navigation are expected. Whenever appropriate, these tests shall be recorded. Such tests shall also be carried out prior to port arrival and departure.

34 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall make regular checks to ensure that:

.1 the person steering the ship or the automatic pilot is steering the correct course;

.2 the standard compass error is determined at least once a watch and, when possible, after any major alteration of course; the standard and gyro-compasses are frequently compared and repeaters are synchronized with their master compass;

.3 the automatic pilot is tested manually at least once a watch;

.4 the navigation and signal lights and other navigational equipment are functioning properly;

.5 the radio equipment is functioning properly in accordance with paragraph 86 of this Section; and

.6 the UMS controls, alarms and indicators are functioning properly.

35 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall bear in mind the necessity to comply at all times with the requirements in force of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, (SOLAS) 1974. The officer of the navigational watch shall take into account:

.1 the need to station a person to steer the ship and to put the steering into manual control in good time to allow any potentially hazardous situation to be dealt with in a safe manner; and

.2 that with a ship under automatic steering it is highly dangerous to allow a situation to develop to the point where the officer in charge of the navigational watch is without assistance and has to break the continuity of the look-out in order to take emergency action.

36 Officers of the navigational watch shall he thoroughly familiar with the use of all electronic navigational aids carried, including their capabilities and limitations, and shall use each of these aids when appropriate and shall bear in mind that the echo-sounder is a valuable navigational aid.

37 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall use the radar whenever restricted visibility is encountered or expected, and at all times in congested waters having due regard to its limitations.

38 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall ensure that range scales employed are changed at sufficiently frequent intervals so that echoes are detected as early as possible. It shall be borne in mind that small or poor echoes may escape detection.

39 Whenever radar is in use, the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall select an appropriate range scale and observe the display carefully, and shall ensure that plotting or systematic analysis is commenced in ample time.

40 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall notify the master immediately:

.1 if restricted visibility is encountered or expected;

.2 if the traffic conditions or the movements of other ships are causing concern;

.3 if difficulty is experienced in maintaining course;

.4 on failure to sight land, a navigation mark or to obtain soundings by the expected time;

.5 if, unexpectedly, land or a navigation mark is sighted or a change in soundings occurs;

.6 on breakdown of the engines, propulsion machinery remote control, steering gear or any essential navigational equipment, alarm or indicator;

.7 if the radio equipment malfunctions;

.8 in heavy weather, if in any doubt about the possibility of weather damage;

.9 if the ship meets any hazard to navigation, such as ice or a derelict; and

.10 in any other emergency or if in any doubt.

41 Despite the requirement to notify the master immediately in the foregoing circumstances, the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall in addition not hesitate to take immediate action for the safety of the ship, where circumstances so require.

42 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall give watchkeeping personnel all appropriate instructions and information which will ensure the keeping of a safe watch, including a proper look-out.

Watchkeeping under different conditions and in different areas

Clear weather

43 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall take frequent and accurate compass bearings of approaching ships as a means of early detection of risk of collision and bear in mind that such risk may sometimes exist even when an appreciable bearing change is evident, particularly when approaching a very large ship or a tow or when approaching a ship at close range. The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall also take early and positive action in compliance with the applicable International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 and subsequently check that such action is having the desired effect.

44 In clear weather, whenever possible, the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall carry out radar practice.

Restricted visibility

45 When restricted visibility is encountered or expected, the first responsibility of the officer in charge of the navigational watch is to comply with the relevant rules of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 with particular regard to the sounding of fog signals, proceeding at a safe speed and having the engines ready for immediate manoeuvre. In addition, the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall:

.1 inform the master;

.2 post a proper look-out;

.3 exhibit navigation lights; and

.4 operate and use the radar.

In hours of darkness

46 The master and the officer in charge of the navigational watch when arranging look-out duty shall have due regard to the bridge equipment and navigational aids available for use, their limitations; procedures and safeguards implemented.

Coastal and congested waters

47 The largest scale chart on board, suitable for the area and corrected with the latest available information, shall be used. Fixes shall be taken at frequent intervals, and shall be carried out by more than one method whenever circumstances allow.

48 The officer in charge of the navigational watch shall positively identify all relevant navigation marks.

Navigation with pilot on board

49 Despite the duties and obligations of pilots, their presence on board does not relieve the master or officer in charge of the navigational watch from their duties and obligations for the safety of the ship. The master and the pilot shall exchange information regarding navigation procedures, local conditions and the ship's characteristics. The master and/or the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall co-operate closely with the pilot and maintain an accurate check on the ship's position and movement.

50 If in any doubt as to the pilot's actions or intentions, the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall seek clarification from the pilot and, if doubt still exists, shall notify the master immediately and take whatever action is necessary before the master arrives.

Ship at anchor

51 If the master considers it necessary, a continuous navigational watch shall be maintained at anchor. While at anchor, the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall:

.1 determine and plot the ship's position on the appropriate chart as soon as practicable;

.2 when circumstances permit, check at sufficiently frequent intervals whether the ship is remaining securely at anchor by taking bearings of fixed navigation marks or readily identifiable shore objects;

.3 ensure that proper look-out is maintained;

.4 ensure that inspection rounds of the ship are made periodically;

.5 observe meteorological and tidal conditions and the state of the sea;

.6 notify the master and undertake all necessary measures if the ship drags anchor;

.7 ensure that the state of readiness of the main engines and other machinery is in accordance with the master's instructions;

.8 if visibility deteriorates, notify the master;

.9 ensure that the ship exhibits the appropriate lights and shapes and that appropriate sound signals are made in accordance with all applicable regulations; and

.10 take measures to protect the environment from pollution by the ship and comply with applicable pollution regulations.

PART 3-2 - PRINCIPLES TO BE OBSERVED IN KEEPING AN ENGINEERING WATCH

52 The term "engineering watch" as used in Parts 3-2, 4-2 and 4-4 of this Section means either a person or a group of personnel comprising the watch or a period of responsibility for an officer during which the physical presence in machinery spaces of that officer may or may not be required.

53 The "officer in charge of the engineering watch" is the chief engineer officer's representative and is primarily responsible, at all times, for the safe and efficient operation and upkeep of machinery affecting the safety of the ship and is responsible for the inspection, operation and testing, as required, of all machinery and equipment under the responsibility of the engineering watch.

Watch arrangements

54 The composition of the engineering watch shall, at all times, be adequate to ensure the safe operation of all machinery affecting the operation of the ship, in either automated or manual mode and be appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.

55 When deciding the composition of the engineering watch, which may include appropriately qualified ratings, the following criteria, inter alia, shall be taken into account:

.1 the type of ship and the type and condition of the machinery;

.2 the adequate supervision, at all times, of machinery affecting the safe operation of the ship;

.3 any special modes of operation dictated by conditions such as weather, ice, contaminated water, shallow water, emergency conditions, damage containment or pollution abatement;

.4 the qualifications and experience of the engineering watch;

.5 the safety of life, ship, cargo and port, and protection of the environment;

.6 the observance of international, national and local regulations; and

.7 maintaining the normal operations of the ship.

Taking over the watch

56 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall not hand over the watch to the relieving officer if there is reason to believe that the latter is obviously not capable of carrying out the watchkeeping duties effectively, in which case the chief engineer officer shall be notified.

57 The relieving officer of the engineering watch shall ensure that the members of the relieving engineering watch are apparently fully capable of performing their duties effectively.

58 Prior to taking over the engineering watch, relieving officers shall satisfy themselves regarding at least the following:

.1 the standing orders and special instructions of the chief engineer officer relating to the operation of the ship's systems and machinery;

.2 the nature of all work being performed on machinery and systems, the personnel involved and potential hazards;

.3 the level and, where applicable, the condition of water or residues in bilges, ballast tanks, slop tanks, reserve tanks, fresh water tanks, sewage tanks and any special requirements for use or disposal of the contents thereof;

.4 the condition and level of fuel in the reserve tanks, settling tank, day tank and other fuel storage facilities;

.5 any special requirements relating to sanitary system disposals;

.6 condition and mode of operation of the various main and auxiliary systems, including the electrical power distribution system;

.7 where applicable, the condition of monitoring and control console equipment, and which equipment is being operated manually;

.8 where applicable, the condition and mode of operation of automatic boiler controls such as flame safeguard control systems, limit control systems, combustion control systems, fuel-supply control systems and other equipment related to the operation of steam boilers;

.9 any potentially adverse conditions resulting from bad weather, ice, contaminated or shallow water;

.10 any special modes of operation dictated by equipment failure or adverse ship conditions;

.11 the reports of engine-room ratings relating to their assigned duties;

.12 the availability of fire-fighting appliances; and

.13 the state of completion of engine-room log.

Performing the engineering watch

59 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall ensure that the established watchkeeping arrangements are maintained and that under direction, engine-room ratings, if forming part of the engineering watch, assist in the safe and efficient operation of the propulsion machinery and auxiliary equipment.

60 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall continue to be responsible for machinery-space operations, despite the presence of the chief engineer officer in the machinery spaces, until specifically informed that the chief engineer officer has assumed that responsibility and this is mutually understood.

61 All members of the engineering watch shall be familiar with their assigned watchkeeping duties. In addition, every member shall with respect to the ship they are serving in have knowledge of:

.1 the use of appropriate internal communication systems;

.2 the escape routes from machinery spaces;

.3 the engine-room alarm systems and be able to distinguish between the various alarms with special reference to the fire extinguishing media alarm; and

.4 the number location and types of fire-fighting equipment and damage control gear in the machinery spaces, together with their use and the various safety precautions to be observed.

62 Any machinery not functioning properly, expected to malfunction or requiring special service, shall be noted along with any action already taken. Plans shall be made for any further action if required.

63 When the machinery spaces are in the manned condition, the officer in charge of the engineering watch shall at all times be readily capable of operating the propulsion equipment in response to needs for changes in direction or speed.

64 When the machinery spaces are in the periodic unmanned condition, the designated duty officer in charge of the engineering watch shall be immediately available and on call to attend the machinery spaces.

65 All bridge orders shall be promptly executed. Changes in direction or speed of the main propulsion units shall be recorded, except where an Administration has determined that the size or characteristics of a particular ship make such recording impracticable. The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall ensure that the main propulsion unit controls, when in the manual mode of operation, are continuously attended under stand-by or manoeuvring conditions.

66 Due attention shall be paid to the ongoing maintenance and support of all machinery, including mechanical, electrical, electronic, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, their control apparatus and associated safety equipment, all accommodation service systems equipment and the recording of stores and spare gear usage.

67 The chief engineer officer shall ensure that the officer in charge of the engineering watch is informed of all preventive maintenance, damage control, or repair operations to be performed during the engineering watch. The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall be responsible for the isolation, by-passing and adjustment of all machinery under the responsibility of the engineering watch that is to be worked on, and shall record all work carried out.

68 When the engine-room is put in a stand-by condition, the officer in charge of the engineering watch shall ensure that all machinery and equipment which may be used during manoeuvring is in a state of immediate readiness and that an adequate reserve of power is available for steering gear and other requirements.

69 Officers in charge of an engineering watch shall not be assigned or undertake any duties which would interfere with their supervisory duties in respect of the main propulsion system and ancillary equipment. They shall keep the main propulsion plant and auxiliary systems under constant supervision until properly relieved, and shall periodically inspect the machinery in their charge. They shall also ensure that adequate rounds of the machinery and steering gear spaces are made for the purpose of observing and reporting equipment malfunctions or breakdowns, performing or directing routine adjustments, required upkeep and any other necessary tasks.

70 Officers in charge of an engineering watch shall direct any other member of the engineering watch to inform them of potentially hazardous conditions which may adversely affect the machinery or jeopardize the safety of life or of the ship.

71 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall ensure that the machinery space watch is supervised, and shall arrange for substitute personnel in the event of the incapacity of any engineering watch personnel. The engineering watch shall not leave the machinery spaces unsupervised in a manner that would prevent the manual operation of the engine-room plant or throttles.

72 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall take the action necessary to contain the effects of damage resulting from equipment breakdown, fire, flooding, rupture, collision, stranding, or other cause.

73 Before going off duty, the officer in charge of the engineering watch shall ensure that all events related to the main and auxiliary machinery which have occurred during the engineering watch are suitably recorded.

74 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall co-operate with any engineer in charge of maintenance work during all preventive maintenance, damage control or repairs. This shall include but not necessarily be limited to:

.1 isolating and bypassing machinery to be worked on;

.2 adjusting the remaining plant to function adequately and safely during the maintenance period;

.3 recording, in the engine-room log or other suitable document, the equipment worked on and the personnel involved, and which safety steps have been taken and by whom, for the benefit of relieving officers and for record purposes; and

.4 testing and putting into service, when necessary, the repaired machinery or equipment.

75 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall ensure that any engine-room ratings who perform maintenance duties are available to assist in the manual operation of machinery in the event of automatic equipment failure.

76 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall bear in mind that changes in speed, resulting from machinery malfunction, or any loss of steering, may imperil the safety of the ship and life at sea. The bridge shall be immediately notified, in the event of fire, and of any impending action in machinery spaces that may cause reduction in the ship's speed, imminent steering failure, stoppage of the ship's propulsion system or any alteration in the generation of electric power or similar threat to safety. This notification, where possible, shall be accomplished before changes are made, in order to afford the bridge the maximum available time to take whatever action is possible to avoid a potential marine casualty.

77 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall notify the chief engineer officer without delay:

.1 when engine damage or a malfunction occurs which may be such as to endanger the safe operation of the ship;

.2 when any malfunction occurs which, it is believed, may cause damage or breakdown of propulsion machinery, auxiliary machinery or monitoring and governing systems; and

.3 in any emergency or if in any doubt as to what decision or measures to take.

78 Despite the requirement to notify the chief engineer officer in the foregoing circumstances, the officer in charge of the engineering watch shall not hesitate to take immediate action for the safety of the ship, its machinery and crew where circumstances require.

79 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall give the watchkeeping personnel all appropriate instructions and information which will ensure the keeping of a safe engineering watch. Routine machinery upkeep, performed as incidental tasks as a part of keeping a safe watch, shall be set up as an integral part of the watch routine. Detailed repair maintenance involving repairs to electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic or applicable electronic equipment throughout the ship shall be performed with the cognizance of the officer in charge of the engineering watch and chief engineer officer. These repairs shall be recorded.

Engineering watchkeeping under different conditions and in different areas

Restricted visibility

80 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall ensure that permanent air or steam pressure is available for sound signals and that at all times bridge orders relating to changes in speed or direction of operation are immediately implemented and, in addition, that auxiliary machinery used for manoeuvring is readily available.

Coastal and congested waters

81 The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall ensure that all machinery involved with the manoeuvring of the ship can immediately be placed in the manual mode of operation when notified that the ship is in congested waters. The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall also ensure that an adequate reserve of power is available for steering and other manoeuvring requirements. Emergency steering and other auxiliary equipment shall be ready for immediate operation.

Ship at anchor

82 At an unsheltered anchorage the chief engineer officer shall consult with the master whether or not to maintain the same engineering watch as when underway.

83 When a ship is at anchor in an open roadstead or any other virtually "at sea" condition, the engineer officer in charge of the engineering watch shall ensure that:

.1 an efficient engineering watch is kept;

.2 periodic inspection is made of all operating and stand-by machinery;

.3 main and auxiliary machinery is maintained in a state of readiness in accordance with orders from the bridge;

.4 measures are taken to protect the environment from pollution by the ship, and that applicable pollution prevention regulations are complied with; and

.5 all damage control and fire-fighting systems are in readiness.

PART 3-3 - PRINCIPLES TO BE OBSERVED IN KEEPING A RADIO WATCH

General provisions

84 Administrations shall direct the attention of companies, masters and radio watchkeeping personnel to comply with the following provisions to ensure that an adequate safety radio watch is maintained while a ship is at sea. In complying with this Code, account shall be taken of the Radio Regulations.

Watch arrangements

85 In deciding the arrangements for the radio watch, the master of every seagoing ship shall:

.1 ensure that the radio watch is maintained in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Radio Regulations and the SOLAS Convention;

.2 ensure that the primary duties for radio watchkeeping are not adversely affected by attending to radio traffic not relevant to the safe movement of the ship and safety of navigation; and

.3 take into account the radio equipment fitted on board and its operational status.

Performing the radio watch

86 The radio operator performing radio watchkeeping duties shall:

.1 ensure that watch is maintained on the frequencies specified in the Radio Regulations and the SOLAS Convention; and

.2 while on duty regularly check the operation of the radio equipment and its sources of energy and report to the master any observed failure of this equipment.

87 The requirements of the Radio Regulations and the SOLAS Convention on keeping a radiotelegraph or radio log, as appropriate, shall be complied with.

88 The maintenance of radio records, in compliance with the requirements of the Radio Regulations and the SOLAS Convention is the responsibility of the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents. The following shall be recorded, together with the times at which they occur:

.1 a summary of distress, urgency and safety radiocommunications;

.2 important incidents relating to the radio service;

.3 where appropriate, the position of the ship at least once per day; and

.4 a summary of the condition of the radio equipment including its sources of energy.

89 The radio records shall be kept at the distress communications operating position, and shall be made available:

.1 for inspection by the master; and

.2 for inspection by any authorized official of the Administration and by any duly authorized officer exercising control under Article X of the Convention.

PART 4 - WATCHKEEPING IN PORT

Principles applying to all watchkeeping

General

90 On any ship safely moored or safely at anchor under normal circumstances in port, the master shall arrange for an appropriate and effective watch to be maintained for the purpose of safety. Special requirements may be necessary for special types of ships' propulsion systems or ancillary equipment and for ships carrying hazardous, dangerous, toxic or highly flammable materials or other special types of cargo.

Watch arrangements

91 Arrangements for keeping a deck watch when the ship is in port shall at all times be adequate to:

.1 ensure the safety of life, of the ship, the port and the environment, and the safe operation of all machinery related to cargo operation;

.2 observe international, national and local rules; and

.3 maintain order and the normal routine of the ship.

92 The master shall decide the composition and duration of the deck watch depending on the conditions of mooring, type of the ship and character of duties.

93 If the master considers it necessary, a qualified officer shall be in charge of the deck watch.

94 The necessary equipment shall be so arranged as to provide for efficient watchkeeping .

95 The chief engineer officer, in consultation with the master, shall ensure that engineering watchkeeping arrangements are adequate to maintain a safe engineering watch while in port. When deciding the composition of the engineering watch, which may include appropriate engine-room ratings, the following points are among those to be taken into account:

.1 on all ships of 3,000 kW propulsion power and over there shall always be an officer in charge of the engineering watch;

.2 on ships of less than 3,000 kW propulsion power there may be, at the master's discretion and in consultation with the chief engineer officer, no officer in charge of the engineering watch; and

.3 officers, while in charge of an engineering watch, shall not be assigned or undertake any task or duty which would interfere with their supervisory duty in respect of the ship's machinery system.

Taking over the watch

96 Officers in charge of the deck or engineering watch shall not hand over the watch to their relieving officer if they have any reason to believe that the latter is obviously not capable of carrying out watchkeeping duties effectively, in which case the master or chief engineer shall be notified accordingly. Relieving officers of the deck or engineering watch shall ensure that all members of their watch are apparently fully capable of performing their duties effectively.

97 If, at the moment of handing over the deck or engineering watch, an important operation is being performed it shall be concluded by the officer being relieved, except when ordered otherwise by the master or chief engineer officer.

PART 4-1 - TAKING OVER THE DECK WATCH

98 Prior to taking over the deck watch, the relieving officer shall be informed of the following by the officer in charge of the deck watch as to:

.1 the depth of the water at the berth, the ship's draught, the level and time of high and low waters; the securing of the moorings, the arrangement of anchors and the scope of the anchor chain, and other mooring features important to the safety of the ship; the state of main engines and their availability for emergency use;

.2 all work to be performed on board the ship; the nature, amount and disposition of cargo loaded or remaining, and any residue on board after unloading the ship;

.3 the level of water in bilges and ballast tanks;

.4 the signals or lights being exhibited or sounded;

.5 the number of crew members required to be on board and the presence of any other persons on board;

.6 the state of fire-fighting appliances;

.7 any special port regulations;

.8 the master's standing and special orders;

.9 the lines of communication available between the ship and shore personnel, including port authorities, in the event of an emergency arising or assistance being required;

.10 any other circumstances of importance to the safety of the ship, its crew, cargo or protection of the environment from pollution; and

.11 the procedures for notifying the appropriate authority of any environmental pollution resulting from ship activities.

99 Relieving officers, before assuming charge of the deck watch, shall verify that:

.1 the securing of moorings and anchor chain are adequate;

.2 the appropriate signals or lights are properly exhibited or sounded;

.3 safety measures and fire protection regulations are being maintained;

.4 their awareness of the nature of any hazardous or dangerous cargo being loaded or discharged and the appropriate action to be taken in the event of any spillage or fire;

.5 no external conditions or circumstances imperil the ship and that it does not imperil others.

PART 4-2 - TAKING OVER THE ENGINEERING WATCH

100 Prior to taking over the engineering watch, the relieving officer shall be informed by the officer in charge of the engineering watch as to:

.1 the standing orders of the day, any special orders relating to the ship operations, maintenance functions, repairs to the ship's machinery or control equipment;

.2 the nature of all work being performed on machinery and systems on board ship, personnel involved and potential hazards;

.3 the level and condition, where applicable, of water or residue in bilges, ballast tanks, slop tanks, sewage tanks, reserve tanks and special requirements for the use or disposal of the contents thereof;

.4 any special requirements relating to sanitary system disposals;

.5 the condition and state of readiness of portable fire-extinguishing equipment and fixed fire-extinguishing installations and fire detection systems;

.6 authorized repair personnel on board engaged in engineering activities, their work locations and repair functions and other authorized persons on board and the required crew;

.7 any port regulations pertaining to ship effluents, fire-fighting requirements and ship readiness, particularly during potential bad weather conditions;

.8 the lines of communication available between the ship and shore personnel, including port authorities, in the event of an emergency arising or assistance being required;

.9 any other circumstance of importance to the safety of the ship, its crew, cargo or the protection of the environment from pollution; and

.10 the procedures for notifying the appropriate authority of environmental pollution resulting from engineering activities.

101 Relieving officers, before assuming charge of the engineering watch, shall satisfy themselves that they are fully informed by the officer being relieved, as outlined above, and:

.1 be familiar with existing and potential sources of power, heat and lighting and their distribution;

.2 know the availability and condition of ship's fuel, lubricants and all water supplies; and

.3 be ready to prepare the ship and its machinery, as far as is possible, for stand-by or emergency conditions as required.

PART 4-3 - PERFORMING THE DECK WATCH

102 The officer in charge of the deck watch shall:

.1 make rounds to inspect the ship at appropriate intervals;

.2 pay particular attention to:

.2.1 the condition and securing of the gangway, anchor chain and moorings, especially at the turn of the tide and in berths with a large rise and fall, if necessary, taking measures to ensure that they are in normal working condition,

.2.2 the draught, under-keel clearance and the general state of the ship, to avoid dangerous listing or trim during cargo handling or ballasting,

.2.3 the weather and sea state,

.2.4 the observance of all regulations concerning safety and fire protection,

.2.5 the water level in bilges and tanks,

.2.6 all persons on board and their location, especially those in remote or enclosed spaces, and

.2.7 the exhibition and sounding, where appropriate, of lights and signals;

.3 in bad weather, or on receiving a storm warning, take the necessary measures to protect the ship, persons on board and cargo;

.4 take every precaution to prevent pollution of the environment by the ship;

.5 in an emergency threatening the safety of the ship, raise the alarm, inform the master, take all possible measures to prevent any damage to the ship, its cargo and persons on board, and, if necessary, request assistance from the shore authorities or neighbouring ships;

.6 be aware of the ship's stability condition so that, in the event of fire, the shore fire-fighting authority may be advised of the approximate quantity of water that can be pumped on board without endangering the ship;

.7 offer assistance to ships or persons in distress;

.8 take necessary precautions to prevent accidents or damage when propellers are to be turned; and

.9 enter in the appropriate log-book all important events affecting the ship.

PART 4-4 - PERFORMING THE ENGINEERING WATCH

103 Officers in charge of the engineering watch shall pay particular attention to:

.1 the observance of all orders, special operating procedures and regulations concerning hazardous conditions and their prevention in all areas in their charge;

.2 the instrumentation and control systems, monitoring of all power supplies, components and systems in operation; .3 the techniques, methods and procedures necessary to prevent violation of the pollution regulations of the local authorities; and

.4 the state of the bilges.

104 Officers in charge of the engineering watch shall:

.1 in emergencies, raise the alarm when in their opinion the situation so demands, and take all possible measures to prevent damage to the ship, persons on board and cargo;

.2 be aware of the deck officer's needs relating to the equipment required in the loading or unloading of the cargo and the additional requirements of the ballast and other ship stability control systems;

.3 make frequent rounds of inspection to determine possible equipment malfunction or failure, and take immediate remedial action to ensure the safety of the ship, of cargo operations, of the port and the environment;

.4 ensure that the necessary precautions are taken, within their area of responsibility, to prevent accidents or damage to the various electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic and mechanical systems of the ship;

.5 ensure that all important events affecting the operation, adjustment or repair of the ship's machinery are satisfactorily recorded.

PART 4-5 - WATCH IN PORT ON SHIPS CARRYING HAZARDOUS CARGO

General

105 The master of every ship carrying cargo that is hazardous, whether explosive, flammable, toxic, health-threatening or environment-polluting, shall ensure that safe watchkeeping arrangements are maintained. On ships carrying hazardous cargo in bulk, this will be achieved by the ready availability on board of a duly qualified officer or officers, and ratings where appropriate, even when the ship is safely moored or safely at anchor in port.

106 On ships carrying hazardous cargo other than in bulk, the master shall take full account of the nature, quantity, packing and stowage of the hazardous cargo and of any special conditions on board, afloat and ashore.

ANNEX 2

SEAFARERS' TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING (STCW) CODE

PART B

RECOMMENDED GUIDANCE REGARDING PROVISIONS OF THE STCW CONVENTION AND ITS ANNEX

INTRODUCTION

1 This Part of the STCW Code contains recommended guidance intended to assist Parties to the STCW Convention and those involved in implementing, applying or enforcing its measures, to give the Convention full and complete effect in a uniform manner.

2 The measures suggested are not mandatory and the examples given are only intended to illustrate how certain Convention requirements may be complied with. However, the recommendations in general represent an approach to the matters concerned which has been harmonized through discussion within IMO involving, where appropriate, consultation with the International Labour Organization, the International Telecommunication Union and the World Health Organization.

3 Observance of the recommendations contained in this Part will assist the Organization in achieving its goal of maintaining the highest practicable standards of competence in respect of crews of all nationalities and ships of all flags.

4 Guidance is provided in this Part in respect of certain Articles of the Convention, in addition to guidance on certain Regulations in its Annex. The numbering of the Sections of this Part therefore corresponds with that of the Articles and the Regulations of the Convention. As in Part A, the text of each Section may be divided into numbered parts and paragraphs, but such numbering is unique to that text alone.

GUIDANCE REGARDING PROVISIONS OF THE ARTICLES

Section B-I

Guidance regarding general obligations under the Convention

(No provisions)

Section B-II

Guidance regarding definitions and clarifications

1 The definitions contained in Article II of the Convention, and the definitions and clarifications contained in Regulation I/1 of its Annex, apply equally to the terms used in Parts A and B of this Code. Supplementary definitions which apply only to the provisions of this Code are contained in Section A-I/1.

2 The definition of "certificate" appearing in Article II(c) provides for three possibilities:

.1 the Administration may issue the certificate;

.2 the Administration may have the certificate issued under its authority; or

.3 the Administration may recognize a certificate issued by another Party as provided for in Regulation I/10.

Section B-III

Guidance regarding the application of the Convention

1 While the definition of "fishing vessel" contained in Article II, paragraph (h) excludes vessels used for catching fish, whales, seals, walrus or other living resources of the sea from application of the Convention, vessels not engaged in the catching activity cannot enjoy such exclusion.

2 The Convention excludes all wooden ships of primitive build, including junks.

Section B-IV

Guidance regarding the communication of information

In paragraph (1)(b) of Article IV, the words "where appropriate" are intended to include:

.1 the recognition of a certificate issued by another Party; or

.2 the issue of the Administration's own certificate, where applicable, on the basis of recognition of a certificate issued by another Party.

Section B-V

Guidance regarding other treaties and interpretation

The word "arrangements" in paragraph (1) of Article V is intended to include provisions previously established between States for the reciprocal recognition of certificates.

Section B-VI

Guidance regarding certificates

See the guidance given in Sections B-II and B-I/2.

A policy statement and an outline of the procedures to be followed should be published for the information of companies operating ships under the flag of the Administration.

Section B-VII

Guidance regarding transitional provisions

Certificates issued for service in one capacity which are currently recognized by a Party as an adequate qualification for service in another capacity, e.g. chief mate certificates recognized for service as master, should continue to be accepted as valid for such service under Article VII. This acceptance also applies to such certificates issued under the provisions of paragraph 2 of Article VII.

Section B-VIII

Guidance regarding dispensations

A policy statement and an outline of the procedures to be followed should be published for the information of companies operating ships under the flag of the Administration. Guidance should be provided to those officials authorized by the Administration to issue dispensations. Information on action taken should be summarized in the initial report communicated to the Secretary-General in accordance with the requirements of Section AI/7.

Section B-IX

Guidance regarding equivalents

1 Naval certificates may continue to be accepted and certificates of service may continue to be issued to naval officers as equivalents under Article IX, provided that the requirements of the Convention are met.

Section B-X

Guidance regarding control

(No provisions - see section B-I/4)

Section B-XI

Guidance regarding the promotion of technical co-operation

1 Governments should provide, or arrange to provide, in collaboration with IMO, assistance to States which have difficulty in meeting the requirements of the Convention and which request such assistance.

2 The importance of adequate training for masters and other personnel serving on board oil, chemical and liquefied gas tankers and ro-ro passenger ships is stressed, and it is recognized that in some cases there may be limited facilities for obtaining the required experience and providing specialized training programs, particularly in developing countries.

Examination database

3 Parties with maritime training academics or examination centres serving several countries and wishing to establish a database of examination questions and answers are encourage to do so, on the basis of bilateral co-operation with a country or countries which already have such a database.

Availability of maritime training simulators

4 The IMO Secretariat maintains a list of maritime training simulators, as a source of information for Parties and others, on the availability of different types of simulators for training seafarers, in particular where such training facilities may not be available to them nationally.

5 Parties are urged to provide information on their national maritime training simulators to the IMO Secretariat and to update the information whenever any change or addition is made to their maritime training simulator facilities.

Information on technical co-operation

6 Information on technical advisory services, access to international training institutions affiliated with IMO, and information on fellowships and other technical co-operation which may be provided by or through IMO may be obtained by contacting the Secretary-General at 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom.

(No guidance provided regarding Articles XII to XVII.)

GUIDANCE REGARDING PROVISIONS OF THE ANNEX TO THE STCW CONVENTION

CHAPTER I

GUIDANCE REGARDING GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section B-I/1

Guidance regarding definitions and clarifications

1 The definitions contained in Article II of the Convention, and the definitions and interpretations contained in Regulation I/1 of its Annex, apply equally to the terms used in Parts A and B of this Code. Supplementary definitions which apply only to the provisions of this Code are contained in Section A-I/1.

2 Officers with capacities covered under the provisions of Chapter VII may be designated as polyvalent officer, dual purpose officer or other designations as approved by the Administration, in accordance with the terminology used in the applicable safe manning requirements.

3 Ratings qualified to serve in capacities covered under the provisions of Chapter VII may be designated as polyvalent ratings or other designations as approved by the Administration, in accordance with the terminology, used in the applicable safe manning requirements.

Section B-I/2

Guidance regarding certificates and endorsements

1 Where an endorsement is integrated in the format of a certificate as provided by Section A-I/2, paragraph 1, the relevant information should be inserted in the certificate in the manner explained hereunder, except for the omission of the space numbered .2. Otherwise in preparing endorsements attesting the issue of a certificate, the spaces numbered .1 to .17 in the form which follows the text hereunder, should be completed as follows:

.1 Enter the name of the issuing State.

.2 Enter the number assigned to the certificate by the Administration.

.3 Enter the full name of the seafarer to whom the certificate is issued. The name should be the same as that appearing in the seafarer's passport, seafarer's identity certificate and other official documents issued by the Administration.

.4 The number or numbers of the STCW Convention Regulation or Regulations under which the seafarer has been found qualified should be entered here, for example:

.4.1 II/1, if the seafarer has been found qualified to fill the capacity of officer in charge of a navigational watch,

.4.2 III/1, if the seafarer has been found qualified to act as the officer in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine-room, or as designated duty engineer officer in a periodically unmanned engine-room,

.4.3 IV/2, if the seafarer has been found qualified to fill the capacity of radio operator,

.4.4 VII/1, if the certificate is a functional certificate and the seafarer has been found qualified to perform functions specified in Part A of the Code, for example, the function of marine engineering at the management level, and

.4.5 III/1 and V/1, if found qualified to act as the officer in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine-room, or as designated duty engineer officer in a periodically unmanned engine-room in tankers. (See limitations in paragraphs .8 and .10 below)

.5 Enter the date of expiry of the endorsement. This date should not be later than the date of expiry, if any, of the certificate in respect of which the endorsement is issued, nor later than five years after the date of issue of the endorsement.

.6 In this column should be entered each of the functions specified in Part A of the Code, which the seafarer is qualified to perform. Functions and their associated levels of responsibility are specified in the tables of competence set out in Chapters II, III and IV of Part A of the Code, and are also listed for convenient reference in the introduction to Part A. When reference is made under .4 above to Regulations in Chapters II, III or IV it is not necessary to list specific functions.

.7 In this column should be entered the levels of responsibility at which the seafarer is qualified to perform each of the functions entered in column .6. These levels are specified in the tables of competence set out in Chapters II, III and IV of Part A of the Code, and are also listed for convenient reference in the introduction to Part A.

.8 A general limitation, such as the requirement to wear corrective lenses when performing duties, should be entered prominently at the top of the limitations column. Limitations applying to the functions listed in column .6 should be entered on the appropriate line against the function concerned, for example:

.8.1 "Not valid for service in tankers" - if not qualified under Chapter V,

.8.2 "Not valid for service in tankers other than oil tankers" - if qualified under Chapter V for service only in oil tankers,

.8.3 "Not valid for service in ships in which steam boilers form part of the ship's machinery" - if the related knowledge has been omitted in accordance with STCW Code provisions, and

.8.4 "Valid only on near coastal voyages" if the related knowledge has been omitted in accordance with STCW Code provisions.

Note: Tonnage and power limitations need not be shown here if they are already indicated in the title of the certificate and in the capacity entered in column .9.

.9 The capacity or capacities entered in column .9 should be those specified in the title to the STCW Regulation or Regulations concerned in the case of certificates issued under Chapters II or III, or should be as specified in the applicable safe manning requirements of the Administration, as appropriate.

.10 A general limitation such as the requirement to wear corrective lenses when performing duties should be entered prominently at the top of this limitations column also. The limitations entered in column .10 should be the same as those shown in column .8 for the functions performed in each capacity entered.

.11 The number entered in space .11 should be that of the certificate, so that both certificate and endorsement have the same unique number for reference and for location in the register of certificates and/or endorsements, etc.

.12 The date of original issue of the endorsement should be entered here; it may be the same as, or differ from, the date of issue of the certificate in accordance with the circumstances.

.13 The name of the official authorized to issue the endorsement should be shown here in block letters below the official's signature.

.14 The date of birth shown should be the date confirmed from Administration records or as otherwise verified.

.15 The endorsement should be signed by the seafarer in the presence of an official, or may be incorporated from the seafarer's application form duly completed and verified.

.16 The photograph should be a standard black and white or colour passport type head and shoulders photograph, supplied in duplicate by the seafarer so that one may be kept in or associated with the register of certificates.

.17 If the blocks for revalidation are shown as part of the endorsement form (see Section A-I/2, paragraph 1), the Administration may revalidate the endorsement by completing the block after the seafarer has demonstrated continuing proficiency as required by Regulation I/11.

____________________

(Official seal)

(Country)

ENDORSEMENT ATTESTING THE ISSUE OF A CERTIFICATE UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS, 1978, AS AMENDED IN 1995

The Government of ............ .1 ............ certifies that Certificate No. ..... .2 ........ has been issued to ................ .3 ..................... who has been found duly qualified in accordance with the provisions of Regulation .... .4 ...... of the above Convention, as amended, and has been found competent to perform the following functions, at the levels specified, subject to any limitations indicated until ....... .5 ....... or until the date of expiry of any extension of the validity of this endorsement as may be shown overleaf.

.6 Function .7 Level.8 Limitations applying (if any)

The lawful holder of this endorsement may serve in the following capacity or capacities specified in the applicable safe manning requirements of the Administration:

.9 Capacity .10 Limitations applying (if any)

Endorsement No. ......... .11 ............. issued on ............ .12 .......................

(Official seal)

..................... .13 ..............................

Signature of duly authorized official

.....................................................

Name of duly authorized official

The original of this endorsement must be kept available in accordance with Regulation I/2, paragraph 9 of the Convention while serving on a ship.

Date of birth of the holder of the certificate .......... .14 ..........

Signature of the holder of the certificate ......... .15 ...............

Photograph of the holder of the certificate .16

The validity of this endorsement is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ......... .17 ..........

Name of duly authorized official The validity of this endorsement is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ........ .17 ............

Name of duly authorized official

2 An endorsement attesting the recognition of a certificate may be attached to and form part of the certificate endorsed, or may be issued as a separate document (see STCW Regulation I/2, paragraph 6). All entries made in the form are required to be in Roman characters and Arabic figures (see STCW Regulation I/2, paragraph 8). The spaces numbered .1 to .17 in the form which follows the text hereunder are intended to be completed as indicated in paragraph 1 above, except in respect of the following spaces:

.2 where the number assigned by the Party which issued the certificate being recognized should be entered;

.3 where the name entered should be the same as that appearing in the certificate being recognized;

.4 where the name of the Party which issued the certificate being recognized should be entered;

.9 where the capacity or capacities entered in column .9 should be selected, as appropriate, from those specified in the safe applicable manning requirements of the Administration which is recognizing the certificate;

.11 where the number entered in space .11 should be unique to the endorsement both for reference and for location in the register of endorsements; and

.12 where the date of original issue of the endorsement should be entered.

3 When replacing a certificate or endorsement which has been lost or destroyed, Parties should issue the replacement under a new number, to avoid confusion with the document to be replaced.

____________________

(Official seal)

(Country)

ENDORSEMENT ATTESTING THE RECOGNITION OF A CERTIFICATE UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS, 1978, AS AMENDED IN 1995

The Government of ......... .1 ........ certifies that Certificate No. ..... .2 ........ issued to ................. .3 .................. by or on behalf of the Government of ...... .4 ........ is duly recognized in accordance with the provisions of Regulation I/10 of the above Convention, as amended, and the lawful holder is authorized to perform the following functions, at the levels specified, subject to any limitations indicated until ...... .5 ........ or until the date of expiry of any extension of the validity of this endorsement as may be shown overleaf:

.6 Function .7 Level.8 Limitations applying (if any)

The lawful holder of this endorsement may serve in the following capacity or capacities specified in the applicable safe manning requirements of the Administration:

.9 Capacity .10 Limitations applying (if any)

Endorsement No. ........ .11 ............... issued on ........... .12 ........................

(Official seal)

........................ .13 ...........................

Signature of duly authorized official

Name of duly authorized official

The original of this endorsement must be kept available in accordance with Regulation I/2, paragraph 9 of the Convention while serving on a ship.

Date of birth of the holder of the certificate .......... .14 ........

Signature of the holder of the certificate ......... .15 .............

Photograph of the holder of the certificate .16

The validity of this endorsement is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ....... .17 ............

Name of duly authorized official The validity of this endorsement is hereby extended until ......................

(Official seal)

Signature of duly authorized official

Date of revalidation ...... .17 .............

Name of duly authorized official

____________________

Section B-I/3

Guidance regarding near-coastal voyages

1 When a Party defines near-coastal voyages, inter alia, for the purposes of applying variations to the subjects listed in column 2 of the standard of competence tables contained in Chapters II and III of Part A of the Code, for the issue of certificates valid for service in ships entitled to fly the flag of that Party and engaged on such voyages, account should be taken of the following factors, bearing in mind the effect on the safety of all ships and on the marine environment.

.1 the type of ship and the trade in which it is engaged;

.2 the gross tonnage of the ship and the power in kW of the main propulsion machinery;

.3 the nature and length of the voyages;

.4 the maximum distance from a port of refuge;

.5 the adequacy of the coverage and accuracy of navigational position-fixing devices;

.6 the weather conditions normally prevailing in the near-coastal voyage area;

.7 the provision of shipboard and coastal communication facilities for search and rescue.

2 A Party which includes voyages off another Party's coast within the limits of its near-coastal voyage definition, may enter into a bilateral agreement with the Party concerned.

3 It is not intended that ships engaged on near-coastal voyages should extend their voyages world-wide, under the excuse that they are navigating constantly within the limits of designated near-coastal voyages of neighbouring Parties.

Section B-I/4

Guidance regarding control procedures

Introduction

1 The purpose of the control procedures of Regulation I/4 is to enable officers duly authorized by port States to ensure that the seafarers on board have sufficient competence to ensure safe and pollution-free operation of the ship.

2 This provision is no different in principle from the need to make checks on ships' structures and equipment. Indeed, it builds on these inspections to make an appraisal of the total system of on-board safety and pollution prevention.

Assessment

3 By restricting assessment as indicated in Section A-I/4, the subjectivity which is an unavoidable element in all control procedures, is reduced to a minimum, no more than would be evident in other types of control inspection.

4 The clear grounds given in Regulation I/4, paragraph 1.3 will usually be sufficient to direct the inspector's attention to specific areas of competency, which could then be followed up by seeking evidence of training in the skills in question. If this evidence is inadequate or unconvincing, the authorized officer may ask to observe a demonstration of the relevant skill.

5 It will be a matter for the professional judgement of the inspector when on board, either following an incident as outlined in Regulation I/4 or for the purposes of a routine inspection, whether the ship is operated in a manner likely to pose a danger to persons, property or the environment.

Section B-I/5

Guidance regarding national provisions

(No provisions)

Section B-I/6

Guidance regarding training and assessment

Qualifications of instructors and assessors

1 Each Party should ensure that instructors and assessors are appropriately qualified and experienced for the particular types and levels of training or assessment of competence of seafarers, as required under the Convention, in accordance with the guidelines in this Section.

In-service training and assessment

2 Any person on board or ashore conducting in-service training of a seafarer intended to be used in qualifying for certification under the Convention should have received appropriate guidance in instructional techniques.

3 Any person responsible for the supervision of in-service training of a seafarer intended to be used in qualifying for certification under the Convention should have appropriate knowledge of instructional techniques and of training methods and practice.

4 Any person, on board or ashore, conducting an in-service assessment of the competence of a seafarer intended to be used in qualifying for certification under the Convention, should have:

.1 received appropriate guidance in assessment methods and practice; and

.2 gained practical assessment experience under the supervision and to the satisfaction of an experienced assessor.

5 Any person responsible for the supervision of the in-service assessment of competence of a seafarer intended to be used in qualifying for certification under the Convention, should have a full understanding of the assessment system, assessment methods and practice.

Section B-I/7

Guidance regarding communication of information

Reports of difficulties encountered

Parties are requested to include in the reports required by Regulation I/7 an indication of any relevant guidance contained in Part B of this Code, the observance of which has been found to be impracticable.

Section B-I/8

Guidance regarding quality standards

1 In applying quality standards under the provisions of Regulation I/8 and Section A-I/8 to the administration of its certification system, each Party should take account of existing national or international models, and incorporate the following key elements:

.1 an expressed policy regarding quality and the means by which such policy is to be implemented;

.2 a quality system incorporating the organizational structure, responsibilities, procedures, processes and resources necessary for quality management;

.3 the operational techniques and activities to ensure quality control;

.4 systematic monitoring arrangements including internal quality assurance evaluations, to ensure that all defined objectives are being achieved; and

.5 arrangements for periodic external quality evaluations as described in the following paragraphs.

2 In establishing such quality standards for the administration of their national certification system, Administrations should seek to ensure that the arrangements adopted:

.1 are sufficiently flexible to enable the certification system to take account of the varying needs of the industry, and that they facilitate and encourage the application of new technology;

.2 cover all the administrative matters that give effect to the various provisions of the Convention, in particular Regulations I/2 to I/15 and other provisions which enable the Administration to grant certificates of service and dispensations and to withdraw, cancel and suspend certificates;

.3 encompass the Administration's responsibilities for approving training and assessment at all levels, from undergraduate-type courses and updating courses for certificates of competency to short courses of vocational training; and

.4 incorporate arrangements for the internal quality assurance reviews under paragraph 1.4 involving a comprehensive self-study of the administrative procedures, at all levels, in order to measure achievement of defined objectives and to provide the basis for the independent external evaluation required under Section A-I/8, paragraph 3.

Quality standards model for assessment of knowledge, understanding, skills and competence

3 The quality standards model for assessment of knowledge, understanding, skills and competence should incorporate the recommendations of this Section within the general framework of either:

.1 a national scheme for education and training accreditation or quality standards; or

.2 an alternative quality standards model acceptable to the Organization.

4 The above quality standards model should incorporate:

.1 a quality policy, including a commitment by the training institution or unit to the achievement of its stated aims and objectives, and to the consequential recognition by the relevant accrediting or quality standards authority;

.2 those quality management functions that determine and implement the quality policy, relating to aspects of the work which impinge on the quality of what is provided, including provisions for determining progression within a course or program;

.3 quality system coverage, where appropriate, of the academic and administrative organizational structure, responsibilities, procedures, processes and the resources of staff and equipment;

.4 the quality control functions to be applied at all levels to the teaching, training, examination and assessment activities, and to their organization and implementation, in order to ensure their fitness for their purpose and the achievement of their defined objectives;

.5 the internal quality assurance processes and reviews which monitor the extent to which the institution, or training unit, is achieving the objectives of the programs it delivers, and is effectively monitoring the quality control procedures which it employs; and

.6 the arrangements made for periodic external quality evaluations required under Regulation I/8, paragraph 2 and described in the following paragraphs, for which the outcome of the quality assurance reviews forms the basis and starting point.

5 In establishing quality standards for education, training and assessment programs, the organizations responsible for implementing these programs should take account of the following:

.1 Where provisions exist for established national accreditation, or education quality standards, such provisions should be utilized for courses incorporating the knowledge and understanding requirements of the Convention. The quality standards should be applied to both management and operational levels of the activity, and should take account of how it is managed, organized, undertaken and evaluated, in order to ensure that the identified goals are achieved.

.2 Where acquisition of a particular skill or accomplishment of a designated task is the primary objective, the quality standards should take account of whether real or simulated equipment is utilized for this purpose, and of the appropriateness of the qualifications and experience of the assessors, in order to ensure achievement of the set standards.

.3 The internal quality assurance evaluations should involve a comprehensive self-study of the program, at all levels, to monitor achievement of defined objectives through the application of quality standards. These quality assurance reviews should address the planning, design, presentation and evaluation of programs as well as the teaching, learning and communication activities. The outcome provides the basis for the independent evaluation required under Section A-I/8, paragraph 3.

The independent evaluation

6 Each independent evaluation should include a systematic and independent examination of all quality activities, but should not evaluate the validity of the defined objectives. The evaluation team should:

.1 carry out the evaluation in accordance with documented procedures;

.2 ensure that the results of each evaluation are documented and brought to the attention of those responsible for the area evaluated; and

.3 check that timely action is taken to correct any deficiencies.

7 The purpose of the evaluation is to provide an independent assessment of the effectiveness of the quality standard arrangements at all levels. In the case of an education or training establishment a recognized academic accreditation or quality standards body or Government agency should be used. The evaluation team should be provided with sufficient advance information to give an overview of the tasks in hand. In the case of a major training institution or program, the following items are indicative of the information to be provided:

.1 the mission statement of the institution;

.2 details of academic and training strategies in use;

.3 an organization chart and information on the composition of committees and advisory bodies;

.4 staff and student information;

.5 a description of training facilities and equipment; and

.6 an outline of the policies and procedures on:

.6.1 student admission,

.6.2 the development of new courses and review of existing courses,

.6.3 the examination system, including appeals and resits,

.6.4 staff recruitment, training, development, appraisal and promotion,

.6.5 feedback from students and from industry, and

.6.6 staff involvement in research and development.

The report

8 Before submitting a final report, the evaluation team should forward an interim report to the management seeking their comments on their findings. Upon receiving their comments, the evaluators should submit their final report, which should:

.1 include brief background information about the institution or training program;

.2 be full, fair and accurate;

.3 highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the institution;

.4 describe the evaluation procedure followed;

.5 cover the various elements identified in paragraph 4;

.6 indicate the extent of compliance or non-compliance with the requirements of the Convention and the effectiveness of the quality standards in ensuring achievement of defined aims and objectives; and

.7 spell out clearly the areas found deficient, offer suggestions for improvement and provide any other comments the evaluators consider relevant.

Section B-I/9

Guidance regarding medical standards - Issue and registration of certificates

Medical examination and certification

1 The standards developed pursuant to Regulation I/9, paragraph 1, should take into account the views of recognized medical practitioners experienced in medicine as applied in the maritime environment.

2 The medical standards may differentiate between those persons seeking to start a career at sea and those seafarers already serving at sea. In the former case, for example, it might be appropriate to designate higher standards in certain areas, while in the latter case some reduction may be made for age.

3 The standards should, so far as possible, define objective criteria with regard to fitness for sea service, taking into account access to medical facilities and medical expertise on board ship. They should, in particular, specify the conditions under which seafarers suffering from potentially life-threatening medical conditions controlled by medication may be allowed to continue to serve at sea.

4 The medical standards should also identify particular medical conditions, such as colour blindness, which might disqualify seafarers from holding particular positions on board ship.

5 Medical examinations and certification of seafarers under the standards should be conducted by one or more medical practitioners recognized by the Party. A list of medical practitioners so recognized should be made available to other Parties and to companies on request.

6 In the absence of mandatory international eyesight standards for seafarers, Parties should regard the minimum in-service eyesight standards set out in paragraphs 7 to 11 and table B-I/9 hereunder as the minimum for the safe operation of ships, and report on maritime casualties where poor eyesight has contributed to such incidents.

7 Each Administration has the discretionary authority to grant a variance or waiver of any of the standards set out in table B-I/9 hereunder, based on an assessment of a medical evaluation and any other relevant information concerning an individual's adjustment to the condition and proven ability to satisfactorily perform assigned shipboard functions. However, if the aided distant visual acuity of either eye is less than the standard, the aided distant visual acuity in the better eye should be at least 0.2 higher than the standard indicated in the table. The unaided distant visual acuity in the better eye should be at least 0.1.

8 Persons requiring the use of spectacles or contact lenses to perform duties should have a spare pair conveniently available on board the ship. Any need to wear visual aids to meet the required standards should be recorded on each certificate and endorsement issued.

9 Eyes of seafarers should be free of disease. Any permanent or progressing debilitating pathology without recovery should be cause for a determination of unfitness.

10 All tests needed to determine the visual fitness of a seafarer must be reliable and performed by a competent person recognized by the Administration.

11 Notwithstanding these provisions, the Administration may require higher standards than those given in table B-I/9 below.

Issue and registration of certificates

Approval of seagoing service

12 In approving seagoing service required by the Convention, Parties should ensure that the service concerned is relevant to the qualification being applied for, bearing in mind that, apart from the initial familiarization with service in seagoing ships, the purpose of such service is to allow the seafarer to be instructed in and to practise, under appropriate supervision, those safe and proper seagoing practices, procedures and routines which are relevant to the qualification applied for.

Approval of training courses

13 In approving training courses and programs, Parties should take into account that the various IMO Model Courses identified by footnotes in Part A of this Code can assist in the preparation of such courses and programs and ensure that the detailed learning objectives recommended therein are suitably covered.

Electronic access to registers

14 Where the register or registers of certificates, endorsements and other documents issued by or on behalf of a Party are maintained by electronic means, provision should be made to allow controlled electronic access to such register or registers to allow Administrations and companies to confirm:

.1 the name of the seafarer to whom a certificate, endorsement or other qualification was issued, its relevant number, date of issue, and date of expiry;

.2 the capacity in which the holder may serve and any limitations attaching thereto; and

.3 the functions the holder may perform, the levels authorized and any limitations attaching thereto.

MINIMUM IN-SERVICE EYESIGHT STANDARDS

Table B-I/9

STCW Category of Distance Vision* Near/ Colour VisualNight Diplopia Con-vention seafarer visionfieldsblindness (double Reg-ulationimmediate visionvision) one eye otherBoth eyes together eye Aided or unaided

I/1 1Masters,Vision required for Normal VisionNo deck ship's navigationvisualrequiredsignificant II/1 officers and(eg. chart and fieldsto performcondition ratings nauticalallevident II/2required topublication necessary undertakereference, use offunctions II/3 look-outbridge in duties instrumentation and darkness II/4 equipment, and without identification of compromise aids to navigation)

Aided: 0.5**0.5

Unaided:0.1 0.1

I/1 1All engineerVision required to Suffic-ient VisionNo officers andread instruments in visualrequiredsignificant III/1 ratingsclose proximity, tofieldsto performcondition forming partoperate equipment, allevident III/2of an and to identify necessary engine-roomsystems/componentsfunctions III/3 watch as necessaryin darkness III/4 without compromise

Aided:0.4 0.4

Unaided:0.1 0.1

I/1 1Radio Vision required to Suffic-ient VisionNo officers andread instruments in visualrequiredsignificant IV/2 electrical/ close proximity, tofieldsto performcondition operate equipment, allevident electronic and to identify necessary officerssystems/componentsfunction as necessaryis darkness without compromise

Aided:0.4 0.4

Unaided:0.1 0.1

*Note: Values given in Snellen decimal notation

**Note: A value of at least 0.7 in one eye is recommended to reduce the risk of undetected underlying eye disease

Section B-I/10

Guidance regarding the recognition of certificates

(No provisions)

Section B-I/11

Guidance regarding the revalidation of certificates

The courses required by Regulation I/11 should include relevant changes in marine technology and recommendations concerning the safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine environment.

Section B-I/12

Guidance regarding the use of simulators

1 When simulators are being used for training or assessment of competency, the following guidelines should be taken into consideration in conducting any such training or assessment.

Training and assessment in radar observation and plotting

2 Training and assessment in radar observation and plotting should:

.1 incorporate the use of radar simulation equipment; and

.2 conform to standards not inferior to those given in paragraphs 3 to 17 below.

3 Demonstrations of and practice in radar observation should be undertaken where appropriate on live marine radar equipment, including the use of simulators. Plotting exercises should preferably be undertaken in real time, in order to increase trainees' awareness of the hazards of the improper use of radar data and improve their plotting techniques to a standard of radar plotting commensurate with that necessary for the safe execution of collision avoidance manoeuvring under actual seagoing conditions.

Theory factors affecting performance and accuracy

4 An elementary understanding should be attained of the principles of radar, together with a full practical knowledge of:

.1 range and bearing measurement, characteristics of the radar set which determine the quality of the radar display, radar antennae, polar diagrams, the effects of power radiated in directions outside the main beam, a non-technical description of the radar system including variations in the features encountered in different types of radar set, performance monitors and equipment factors which affect maximum and minimum detection ranges and accuracy of information;

.2 the current marine radar performance specification adopted by the Organization;

.3 the effects of the siting of the radar antenna, shadow sectors and arcs of reduced sensitivity, false echoes, effects of antenna height on detection ranges and of siting radar units and storing spares near magnetic compasses, including magnetic safe distances; and

.4 radiation hazards and safety precautions to be taken in the vicinity of antenna and open wave guides.

Detection of misrepresentation of information, including false echoes and sea returns

5 A knowledge of the limitations to target detection is essential, to enable the observer to estimate the dangers of failure to detect targets. The following factors should be emphasized:

.1 performance standard of the equipment;

.2 brilliance, gain and video processor control settings;

.3 radar horizon;

.4 size, shape, aspect and composition of targets;

.5 effects of the motion of the ship in a seaway;

.6 propagation conditions;

.7 meteorological conditions; sea clutter and rain clutter;

.8 anti-clutter control settings;

.9 shadow sectors; and

.10 radar-to-radar interference.

6 A knowledge should be attained of factors which might lead to faulty interpretation, including false echoes, effects of nearby pylons and large structures, effects of power lines crossing rivers and estuaries, echoes from distant targets occurring on second or later traces.

7 A knowledge should be attained of aids to interpretation, including corner reflectors and radar beacons; detection and recognition of land targets; the effects of topographical features; effects of pulse length and beam width; radar conspicuous and inconspicuous targets; factors which affect the echo strength from targets.

PRACTICE

Setting up and maintaining displays

8 A knowledge should be attained of:

.1 the various types of radar display mode; unstabilized ship's-head-up relative motion; ship's-head-up course-up and north-up stabilized relative motion and true motion;

.2 the effects of errors on the accuracy of information displayed; effects of transmitting compass errors on stabilized and true motion displays; effects of transmitting log errors on a true motion display; and the effects of inaccurate manual speed settings on a true motion display;

.3 methods of detecting inaccurate speed settings on true motion controls; the effects of receiver noise limiting ability to display weak echo returns, and the effects of saturation by receiver noise, etc.; the adjustment of operational controls; criteria which indicate optimum points of adjustment; the importance of proper adjustment sequence, and the effects of maladjusted controls; the detection of maladjustments and corrections of:

.3.1 controls affecting detection ranges, and

.3.2 controls affecting accuracy;

.4 the dangers of using radar equipment with maladjusted controls; and

.5 the need for frequent regular checking of performance, and the relationship of the performance indicator to the range performance of the radar set.

Range and bearing

9 A knowledge should be attained of:

.1 the methods of measuring ranges; fixed range markers and variable range markers;

.2 the accuracy of each method and the relative accuracy of the different methods;

.3 how range data are displayed; ranges at stated intervals, digital counter and graduated scale;

.4 the methods of measuring bearings; rotatable cursor on transparent disc covering the display, electronic bearing cursor and other methods;

.5 bearing accuracy and inaccuracies caused by: parallax, heading marker displacement, centre maladjustment;

.6 how bearing data are displayed; graduated scale and digital counter; and

.7 the need for regular checking of the accuracy of ranges and bearings, methods of checking for inaccuracies and correcting or allowing for inaccuracies.

Plotting techniques and relative motion concepts

10 Practice should be provided in manual plotting techniques, including the use of reflection plotters, with the objective of establishing a thorough understanding of the interrelated motion between own ship and other ships, including the effects of manoeuvring to avoid collision. At the preliminary stages of this training, simple plotting exercises should be designed to establish a sound appreciation of plotting geometry and relative motion concepts. The degree of complexity of exercises should increase throughout the training course until the trainee has mastered all aspects of the subject. Competence can best be enhanced by exposing the trainee to real-time exercises performed on a simulator or using other effective means.

Identification of critical echoes

11 A thorough understanding should be attained of:

.1 position fixing by radar from land targets and sea marks;

.2 the accuracy of position fixing by ranges and by bearings;

.3 the importance of cross-checking the accuracy of radar against other navigational aids; and

.4 the value of recording ranges and bearings at frequent, regular intervals when using radar as an aid to collision avoidance.

Course and speed of other ships

12 A thorough understanding should be attained of:

.1 the different methods by which course and speed of other ships can be obtained from recorded ranges and bearings including:

.1.1 the unstabilized relative plot,

.1.2 the stabilized relative plot, and

.1.3 the true plot; and

.2 the relationship between visual and radar observations, including detail and the accuracy of estimates of course and speed of other ships, and the detection of changes in movements of other ships.

Time and distance of closest approach of crossing, meeting or overtaking ships

13 A thorough understanding should be attained of:

.1 the use of recorded data to obtain:

.1.1 measurement of closest approach distance and bearing, and

.1.2 time to closest approach, and

.2 the importance of frequent, regular observations.

Detecting course and speed changes of other ships

14 A thorough understanding should be attained of:

.1 the effects of changes of course and/or speed by other ships on their tracks across the display;

.2 the delay between change of course or speed and detection of that change; and

.3 the hazards of small changes as compared with substantial changes of course or speed in relation to rate and accuracy of detection.

Effects of changes in own ship's course or speed or both

15 A thorough understanding of the effects on a relative motion display of own ship's movements, and the effects of other ships' movements and the advantages of compass stabilization of a relative display.

16 In respect of true motion displays, a thorough understanding should be attained of:

.1 the effects of inaccuracies of:

.1.1 speed and course settings, and

.1.2 of compass stabilization data driving a stabilized relative motion display;

.2 the effects of changes in course or speed or both by own ship on tracks of other ships on the display; and

.3 the relationship of speed to frequency of observations.

Application of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea

17 A thorough understanding should be attained of the relationship of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea to the use of radar, including:

.1 action to avoid collision, dangers of assumptions made on inadequate information and the hazards of small alterations of course or speed;

.2 the advantages of safe speed when using radar to avoid collision;

.3 the relationship of speed to closest approach distance and time and to the manoeuvring characteristics of various types of ships;

.4 the importance of radar observation reports and radar reporting procedures being well defined;

.5 the use of radar in clear weather, to obtain an appreciation of its capabilities and limitations, compare radar and visual observations and obtain an assessment of the relative accuracy of information;

.6 the need for early use of radar in clear weather at night and when there are indications that visibility may deteriorate;

.7 comparison of features displayed by radar with charted features; and

.8 comparison of the effects of differences between range scales.

Training and assessment in the operational use of automatic radar plotting aids (ARPA)

18 Training and assessment in the operational use of automatic radar plotting aids (ARPA) should:

.1 require prior completion of the training in radar observation and plotting or combine that training with the training given in paragraphs 19 to 36 below;

.2 incorporate the use of ARPA simulation equipment; and

.3 conform to standards not inferior to those given in paragraphs 19 to 36 below.

19 Where ARPA training is provided as part of the general training under the 1978 STCW Convention, masters, chief mates and officers in charge of a navigational watch should understand the factors involved in decision-making based on the information supplied by ARPA in association with other navigational data inputs, having a similar appreciation of the operational aspects and of system errors of modem electronic navigational systems. This training should be progressive in nature, commensurate with the responsibilities of the individual and the certificates issued by Parties under the 1978 STCW Convention.

Theory and Demonstration

Possible risks of over-reliance on ARPA

20 Appreciation that ARPA is only a navigational aid and:

.1 that its limitations, including those of its sensors, make over-reliance on ARPA dangerous, in particular for keeping a look-out; and

.2 the need to observe at all times the Principles to be observed in keeping a navigational watch and the Guidance on keeping a navigational watch.

Principal types of ARPA systems and their display characteristics

21 Knowledge of the principal types of ARPA systems in use; their various display characteristics and an understanding of when to use ground or sea stabilized modes and north-up, course-up or head-up presentations.

IMO performance standards for ARPA

22 An appreciation of the IMO performance standards for ARPA, in particular the standards relating to accuracy.

Factors affecting system performance and accuracy

23 Knowledge of ARPA sensor input performance parameters - radar, compass and speed inputs and the effects of sensor malfunction on the accuracy of ARPA data.

24 Knowledge of:

.1 the effects of the limitations of radar range and bearing discrimination and accuracy and the limitations of compass and speed input accuracies on the accuracy of ARPA data; and

.2 factors which influence vector accuracy.

Tracking capabilities and limitations

25 Knowledge of:

.1 the criteria for the selection of targets by automatic acquisition;

.2 the factors leading to the correct choice of targets for manual acquisition;

.3 the effects on tracking of "lost" targets and target fading;

.4 the circumstances causing "target swap" and its effects on displayed data.

Processing delays

26 Knowledge of the delays inherent in the display of processed ARPA information, particularly on acquisition and re-acquisition or when a tracked target manoeuvres.

Operational warnings, their benefits and limitations

27 Appreciation of the uses, benefits and limitations of ARPA operational warnings and their correct setting, where applicable, to avoid spurious interference.

System operational tests

28 Knowledge of:

.1 methods of testing for malfunctions of ARPA systems including functional self-testing; and

.2 precautions to be taken after a malfunction occurs.

Manual and automatic acquisition of targets and their respective limitations

29 Knowledge of the limits imposed on both types of acquisition in multi-target scenarios, and the effects on acquisition of target fading and target swap.

True and relative vectors and typical graphic representation of target information and danger areas

30 Thorough knowledge of true and relative vectors; derivation of targets' true courses and speeds including:

.1 threat assessment, derivation of predicted closest point of approach and predicted time to closest point of approach from forward extrapolation of vectors, the use of graphic representation of danger areas;

.2 the effects of alterations of course and/or speed of own ship and/or targets on predicted closest point of approach and predicted time to closest point of approach and danger areas;

.3 the effects of incorrect vectors and danger areas; and

.4 the benefit of switching between true and relative vectors.

Information on past position of targets being tracked

31 Knowledge of the derivation of past positions of targets being tracked, recognition of historic data as a means of indicating recent manoeuvring of targets and as a method of checking the validity of the ARPA's tracking.

Practice

Setting up and maintaining displays

32 Ability to demonstrate:

.1 the correct starting procedure to obtain the optimum display of ARPA information;

.2 the selection of display presentation; stabilized relative motion displays and true motion displays;

.3 the correct adjustment of all variable radar display controls for optimum display of data;

.4 the selection, as appropriate, of required speed input to ARPA;

.5 the selection of ARPA plotting controls, manual/automatic acquisition, vector/graphic display of data;

.6 the selection of the time scale of vectors/graphics;

.7 the use of exclusion areas when automatic acquisition is employed by ARPA; and

.8 performance checks of radar, compass, speed input sensors and ARPA.

System operational tests

33 Ability to perform system checks and determine data accuracy of ARPA, including the trial manoeuvre facility, by checking against basic radar plot.

Obtaining information from the ARPA display

34 Demonstrate the ability to obtain information in both relative and true motion modes of display, including:

.1 the identification of critical echoes;

.2 the speed and direction of target's relative movement;

.3 the time to, and predicted range at, target's closest point of approach;

.4 the courses and speeds of targets;

.5 detecting course and speed changes of targets and the limitations of such information;

.6 the effect of changes in own ship's course or speed or both; and

.7 the operation of the trial manoeuvre facility.

Application of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea

35 Analysis of potential collision situations from displayed information, determination and execution of action to avoid close-quarters situations in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea in force. Recommended performance standards for non-mandatory types of simulation

36 Performance standards for non-mandatory simulation equipment used for training and/or assessment of competence or demonstration of skills are set out hereunder. Such forms of simulation include, but are not limited to, the following types:

.1 navigation and watchkeeping;

.2 shiphandling and manoeuvring;

.3 cargo handling and stowage;

.4 radiocommunications; and

.5 main and auxiliary machinery operation

Navigation and watchkeeping simulation

37 Navigation and watchkeeping simulation equipment should, in addition to meeting all applicable performance standards set out in Section A-I/12, be capable of simulating navigational equipment and bridge operational controls which meet all applicable performance standards adopted by the Organization, incorporate facilities to generate soundings and:

.1 create a real-time operating environment, including navigation control and communications instruments and equipment appropriate to the navigation and watchkeeping tasks to be carried out and the manoeuvring skills to be assessed;

.2 provide a realistic visual scenario by day or by night, including variable visibility, or by night only as seen from the bridge, with a minimum horizontal field of view available to the trainee in viewing sectors appropriate to the navigation and watchkeeping tasks and objectives; and

.3 realistically simulate "own ship" dynamics in open water conditions including the effects of weather, tidal stream, currents and interaction with other ships.

Ship handling and manoeuvring simulation

38 In addition to meeting the performance standards set out in paragraph 37, ship handling simulation equipment should:

.1 provide a realistic visual scenario as seen from the bridge by day and by night with variable visibility throughout a minimum horizontal field of view available to the trainee in viewing sectors appropriate to the shiphandling and manoeuvring training tasks and objectives; and

.2 realistically simulate "own ship" dynamics in restricted waterways, including shallow water and bank effects.

39 Manned scale models are used to provide shiphandling and manoeuvring simulation, in addition to the performance standards set out in paragraphs 37.3 and 38.2, such equipment should:

.1 incorporate scaling factors which present accurately the dimensions, areas, volume and displacement, speed, time and rate of turn of a real ship; and

.2 incorporate controls for the rudder and engines to the correct time scale.

Cargo handling and stowage simulation

40 Cargo handling simulation equipment should be capable of simulating cargo handling and control equipment which meets all applicable performance standards adopted by the Organization, and incorporate facilities to:

.1 create an effective operational environment, including a cargo-control station with such instrumentation as may be appropriate to the particular type of cargo system modelled;

.2 model loading and unloading functions and stability and stress data appropriate to the cargo handling tasks to be carried out and the skills to be assessed; and

.3 simulate loading, unloading, ballasting and deballasting operations and appropriate associated calculations for stability, trim, list, longitudinal strength, torsional stress and damage stability.

GMDSS communication simulation

41 GMDSS communication simulation equipment should be capable of simulating GMDSS communication equipment which meets all applicable performance standards adopted by the Organization, and incorporate facilities to:

.1 simulate the operation of VHF, VHF-DSC, NAVTEX, EPIRB and watch receiver equipment as required for the Restricted Operators Certificate (ROC);

.2 simulate the operation of INMARSAT-A, B and C ship earth stations, MF/HF NBDP, MF/HF-DSC, VHF, VHF-DSC, NAVTEX, EPIRB and watch receiver equipment as required for the General Operator's Certificate (GOC);

.3 provide voice communication with background noise;

.4 provide a printed text communication facility; and

.5 create a real-time operating environment, consisting of an integrated system, incorporating at least one instructor/assessor station and at least two GMDSS ship or shore stations.

Main and auxiliary machinery operation simulation

42 Engine-room simulation equipment should be capable of simulating a main and auxiliary machinery system and incorporate facilities to:

.1 create a real-time environment for seagoing and harbour operations with communication devices and simulation of appropriate main and auxiliary propulsion machinery equipment and control panels;

.2 simulate relevant sub-systems that should include but not be restricted to boiler, steering gear, electrical power general and distribution systems including emergency power supplies and fuel, cooling water, refrigeration, bilge and ballast systems;

.3 monitor and evaluate engine performance and remote sensing systems;

.4 simulate machinery malfunctions;

.5 allow for the variable external conditions to be changed so as to influence the simulated operations: weather, ship's draught, sea water and air temperatures;

.6 allow for instructor controlled external conditions to be changed: deck steam, accommodation steam, deck air, ice conditions, deck cranes, heavy power, bow thrust, ship load;

.7 allow for instructor controlled simulator dynamics to be changed: emergency run, process responses, ship responses; and

.8 provide a facility to isolate certain processes, such as speed, electrical system, diesel oil system, lubricating oil system, heavy oil system, seawater system, steam system, exhaust boiler and turbo generator for performing specific training tasks.

Section B-I/13

Guidance regarding the conduct of trials

(No provisions)

Section B-I/14

Guidance regarding responsibilities of companies and recommended responsibilities of masters and crew members

Companies

1 Companies should provide ship specific introductory programs aimed at assisting newly employed seafarers to familiarize themselves with all procedures and equipment relating to their areas of responsibility.

Master

2 The master should take all steps necessary to implement any company instructions issued in accordance with Section A-I/14. Such steps should include:

.1 identifying all seafarers who are newly employed on board the ship before they are assigned to any duties;

.2 providing the opportunity for all newly arrived seafarers to:

.2.1 visit the spaces in which their primary duties will be performed,

.2.2 get acquainted with the location, controls and display features of equipment they will be operating or using,

.2.3 activate the equipment when possible and perform functions using the controls on the equipment, and

.2.4 observe and ask questions of someone who is already familiar with the equipment, procedures and other arrangements, and who can communicate information in a language which the seafarer understands; and

.3 providing for a suitable period of supervision when there is any doubt that a newly employed seafarer is familiar with the shipboard equipment, operating procedures and other arrangements needed for the proper performance of his or her duties.

Crew members

3 Seafarers who are newly assigned to a ship should take full advantage of every opportunity provided to become familiar with the shipboard equipment, operating procedures and other arrangements needed for the proper performance of their duties. Immediately upon arriving on board for the first time, each seafarer has the responsibility to become acquainted with the ship's working environment, particularly with respect to new or unfamiliar equipment, procedures or arrangements.

4 Seafarers who do not promptly attain the level of familiarity required for performing their duties have the obligation to bring this fact to the attention of their supervisor or to the attention of the crew member designated in accordance with Section A-I/14, paragraph 2.2, and to identify any equipment, procedure or arrangement which remains unfamiliar.

Section B-I/15

Guidance regarding transitional provisions

(No provisions)

CHAPTER II

GUIDANCE REGARDING THE MASTER AND THE DECK

DEPARTMENT

Section B-II/1

Guidance regarding the certification of officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more

Training

1 Every candidate for certification as officer in charge of a navigational watch should have completed a planned and structured program of training designed to assist a prospective officer to achieve the standard of competence in accordance with table A-II/1.

2 The structure of the program of training should be set out in a training plan which clearly expresses for all parties involved the objectives of each stage of training on board and ashore. It is important that the prospective officer, tutors, ships' staff and company personnel are clear about the competences which are to be achieved at the end of the program and how they are to be achieved through a combination of education, training and practical experience on board and ashore.

3 The mandatory periods of seagoing service are of prime importance in learning the job of being a ship's officer and in achieving the overall standard of competence required. Properly planned and structured, the periods of seagoing service will enable prospective officers to acquire and practise skills and will offer opportunities for competences achieved to be demonstrated and assessed.

4 Where the seagoing service forms part of an approved training program, the following principles should be observed:

.1 The program of on-board training should be an integral part of the overall training plan.

.2 The program of on-board training should be managed and co-ordinated by the company which manages the ship on which the seagoing service is to be performed.

.3 The prospective officer should be provided with a training record book to enable a comprehensive record of practical training and experience at sea to be maintained. The training record book should be laid out in such a way that it can provide detailed information about the tasks and duties which should be undertaken and the progress towards their completion. Duly completed, the record book will provide unique evidence that a structured program of on-board training has been completed which can be taken into account in the process of evaluating competence for the issue of a certificate.

.4 At all times, the prospective officer should be aware of two identifiable individuals who are immediately responsible for the management of the program of on-board training . The first of these is a qualified seagoing officer, referred to as the shipboard training officer who, under the authority of the master, should organise and supervise the program of training for the duration of each voyage. The second should be a person nominated by the company, referred to as the company training officer, who should have an overall responsibility for the training program and for co-ordination with colleges and training institutions.

.5 The company should ensure that appropriate periods are set aside for completion of the program of on-board training within the normal operational requirements of the ship.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

5 The following section summarises the roles and responsibilities of those individuals involved in organizing and conducting on-board training:

.1 The company training officer should be responsible for:

.1.1 overall administration of the program of training,

.1.2 monitoring the progress of the prospective officer throughout, and

.1.3 issuing guidance as required and ensuring that all concerned with the training program play their parts.

.2 The shipboard training officer should be responsible for:

.2.1 organizing the program of practical training at sea,

.2.2 ensuring in a supervisory capacity that the training record book is properly maintained and that all other requirements are fulfilled, and

.2.3 making sure, so far as is practicable, that the time the prospective officer spends on board is as useful as possible in terms of training and experience, and is consistent with the objectives of the training program, the progress of training and the operational constraints of the ship.

.3 The master's responsibilities should be to:

.3.1 provide the link between the shipboard training officer and the company training officer ashore,

.3.2 fulfil the role of continuity if the shipboard training officer is relieved during the voyage, and

.3.3 ensure that all concerned are effectively carrying out the on-board training program,

.4 The prospective officer's responsibilities should be to:

.4.1 follow diligently the program of training as laid down,

.4.2 make the most of the opportunities presented, be they in or outside working hours, and

.4.3 keep the training record book up to date and ensure that it is available at all times for scrutiny.

INDUCTION

6 At the beginning of the program and at the start of each voyage on a different ship, prospective officers should be given full information and guidance as to what is expected of them and how the training program is to be organized. Induction presents the opportunity to brief prospective officers about important aspects of the tasks they will be undertaking, with particular regard to safe working practices and protection of the marine environment.

SHIPBOARD PROGRAM OF TRAINING

7 The training record book should contain, amongst other things, a number of training tasks or duties which should be undertaken as part of the approved program of on-board training . Such tasks and duties should relate to at least the following areas:

.1 steering systems;

.2 general seamanship;

.3 mooring, anchoring and port operations;

.4 life-saving and fire-fighting appliances;

.5 systems and equipment;

.6 cargo work;

.7 bridge work and watchkeeping; and

.8 engine-room familiarization.

8 It is extremely important that the prospective officer is given adequate opportunity for supervised bridge watchkeeping experience, particularly in the later stages of the on-board training program.

9 The performance of the prospective officers in each of the tasks and duties itemized in the training record book should be initialled by a qualified officer when, in the opinion of the officer concerned, a prospective officer has achieved a satisfactory standard of proficiency. It is important to appreciate that a prospective officer may need to demonstrate ability on several occasions before a qualified officer is confident that a satisfactory standard has been achieved.

MONITORING AND REVIEWING

10 Guidance and reviewing are essential to ensure that prospective officers are fully aware of the progress they are making and to enable them to join in decisions about their future program. To be effective, reviews should be linked to information gained through the training record book and other sources as appropriate. The training record book should be scrutinized and endorsed formally by the master and the shipboard training officer at the beginning, during and at the end of each voyage. The training record book should also be examined and endorsed by the company training officer between voyages.

ASSESSMENT OF ABILITIES AND SKILLS IN NAVIGATIONAL WATCHKEEPING

11 A candidate for certification who is required to have received special training and assessment of abilities and skills in navigational watchkeeping duties should be required to provide evidence, through demonstration either on a simulator or on board ship as part of an approved program of shipboard training, that the skills and ability to perform as officer in charge of a navigational watch in at least the following areas have been acquired, namely to:

.1 prepare for and conduct a passage, including:

.1.1 interpreting and applying information obtained from charts,

.1.2 fixing position in coastal waters,

.1.3 applying basic information obtained from tide tables and other navigational publications,

.1.4 checking and operating bridge equipment,

.1.5 checking magnetic and gyro-compasses,

.1.6 assessing available meteorological information,

.1.7 using celestial bodies to fix position,

.1.8 determining the compass error by celestial and terrestrial means, and

.1.9 performing calculations for sailings of up to 24 hours; .2 operate and apply information obtained from electronic navigation systems;

.3 operate radar and ARPA and apply radar information for navigation and collision avoidance;

.4 operate propulsion and steering systems to control heading and speed; .5 implement navigational watch routines and procedures;

.6 implement the manoeuvres required for rescue of persons overboard;

.7 initiate action to be taken in the event of an imminent emergency situation (e.g. fire, collision, stranding) and action in the immediate aftermath of an emergency;

.8 initiate action to be taken in event of malfunction or failure of major items of equipment or plant (e.g. steering gear, power, navigation systems);

.9 conduct radiocommunications and visual and sound signalling in normal and emergency situations; and

.10 monitor and operate safety and alarm systems including internal communications.

12 Assessment of abilities and skills in navigational watchkeeping should:

.1 be made against the criteria for evaluating competence for the function of navigation set out in table A-II/1;

.2 ensure that the candidate performs navigational watchkeeping duties in accordance with the Principles to be observed in keeping a safe navigational watch (Section A-VIII/2, Part 3-1) and the Guidance on keeping a navigational watch (Section B-VIII/2, Part 3-1).

EVALUATION OF COMPETENCE

13 The standard of competence to be achieved for certification as officer in charge of a navigational watch is set out in table A-II/1. The standard specifies the knowledge and skill required and the application of that knowledge and skill to the standard of performance required on board ship.

14 Scope of knowledge is implicit in the concept of competence. Assessment of competence should, therefore, encompass more than the immediate technical requirements of the job, the skills and tasks to be performed, and should reflect the broader aspects needed to meet the full expectations of competent performance as a ships' officer. This includes relevant knowledge, theory, principles and cognitive skills which, to varying degrees, underpin all levels of competence. It also encompasses proficiency in what to do, how and when to do it, and why it should be done. Properly applied, this will help to ensure that a candidate can:

.1 work competently in different ships and across a range of circumstances;

.2 anticipate, prepare for and deal with contingencies; and

.3 adapt to new and changing requirements.

15 The criteria for evaluating competence (column 4 of table A-II/1) identify, primarily in outcome terms, the essential aspects of competent performance. They are expressed so that assessment of a candidate's performance can be made against them and should be adequately documented in the training record book.

16 Evaluation of competence is the process of:

.1 collecting sufficient valid and reliable evidence about the candidate's knowledge, understanding and proficiency to accomplish the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-II/1; and

.2 judging that evidence against the criteria specified in the standard.

17 The arrangements for evaluating competence should be designed to take account of different methods of assessment which can provide different types of evidence about candidates' competence, e.g.:

.1 direct observation of work activities (including seagoing service);

.2 skills/proficiency/competency tests;

.3 projects and assignments;

.4 evidence from previous experience; and

.5 written, oral and computer-based questioning techniques.

18 One or more of the first four methods listed should almost invariably be used to provide evidence of ability, in addition to appropriate questioning techniques to provide evidence of supporting knowledge and understanding.

Section B-II/2

Guidance regarding the certification of masters and chief officers on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more

(See Section B-II/1 for guidance.)

Section B-II/3

Guidance regarding the certification of officers in charge of a navigational watch and of masters on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage

(See Section B-II/1 for guidance.)

Section B-II/4

Guidance regarding ratings forming part of a navigational watch

In addition to the requirements stated in table A-II/4 of this Code, Parties are encouraged for safety reasons to include the following subjects in the training of ratings forming part of a navigational watch:

.1 a basic knowledge of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea;

.2 rigging a pilot ladder;

.3 an understanding of wheel orders given by pilots in English;

.4 training for proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats;

.5 support duties when berthing and unberthing and during towing operations;

.6 a basic knowledge of anchoring;

.7 a basic knowledge of dangerous cargoes;

.8 a basic knowledge of stowage procedures and arrangements for bringing stores on board; and

.9 a basic knowledge of deck maintenance and tools used on deck.

CHAPTER III

GUIDANCE REGARDING THE ENGINE

DEPARTMENT

Section B-III/1

Guidance regarding the certification of officers in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine-room or as designated duty engineers in a periodically unmanned engine-room

1 In table A-III/1, column 1, top block, the tools referred to should include hand tools, common measuring equipment, centre lathes, drilling machines, welding equipment and milling machines as appropriate.

2 Training in workshop skills ashore can be carried out in a training institution or approved workshop.

3 On-board training should be adequately documented in the training record book by qualified assessors.

Section B-III/2

Guidance regarding the certification of chief engineer officers and second engineer officers of ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3,000 kW propulsion power or more

(No provisions)

Section B-III/3

Guidance regarding the certification of chief engineer officers and second engineer officers of ships powered by main propulsion machinery between 750 kW and 3,000 kW propulsion power

(No provisions)

Section B-III/4

Guidance regarding the training and certification of ratings forming part of a watch in a manned engine-room or designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned engine-room

In addition to the requirements stated in Section A-III/4 of this Code, Parties are encouraged for safety reasons to include the following items in the training of ratings forming part of an engineering watch:

.1 a basic knowledge of routine pumping operations, such as bilge, ballast and cargo pumping systems;

.2 a basic knowledge of electrical installations and the associated dangers;

.3 a basic knowledge of maintenance and repair of machinery and tools used in the engine-room; and

.4 a basic knowledge of stowage and arrangements for bringing stores on board.

CHAPTER IV

GUIDANCE REGARDING RADIOCOMMUNICATION AND RADIO PERSONNEL

Section B-IV/1

Guidance regarding the application of Chapter IV

(No provisions)

Section B-IV/2

Guidance regarding training and certification of GMDSS radio personnel

TRAINING RELATED TO THE FIRST-CLASS RADIOELECTRONIC CERTIFICATE

General

1 The requirements of medical fitness, especially as to hearing, eyesight and speech, should be met by the candidate before training is commenced.

2 The training should be relevant to the provisions of the STCW Convention, the provisions of the Radio Regulations annexed to the International Telecommunication Convention (Radio Regulations) and the provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, currently in force, with particular attention given to provisions for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). In developing training requirements, account should be taken of at least the knowledge and training given in paragraphs 3 to 14 hereunder.

Theory

3 Knowledge of the general principles and basic factors necessary for safe and efficient use of all sub-systems and equipment required in the GMDSS, sufficient to support the practical training provisions given in paragraph 13.

4 Knowledge of the use, operation and service areas of GMDSS sub-systems, including satellite system characteristics, navigational and meteorological warning systems and selection of appropriate communication circuits.

5 Knowledge of the principles of electricity and the theory of radio and electronics sufficient to meet the provisions given in paragraphs 6 to 10 below.

6 Theoretical knowledge of GMDSS radiocommunication equipment, including narrow-band direct-printing telegraphy and radiotelephone transmitters and receivers, digital selective calling equipment, ship earth stations, emergency position-indicating radiobeacons (EPIRBs), marine antenna systems, radio equipment for survival craft together with all auxiliary items, including power supplies, as well as general knowledge of the principles of other equipment generally used for radionavigation, with particular reference to maintaining the equipment in service.

7 Knowledge of factors that affect system reliability, availability, maintenance procedures and proper use of test equipment.

8 Knowledge of microprocessors and fault diagnosis in systems using microprocessors.

9 Knowledge of control systems in the GMDSS radio equipment including testing and analysis.

10 Knowledge of the use of computer software for the GMDSS radio equipment and methods for correcting faults caused by loss of software control of the equipment.

Regulations and documentation

11 Knowledge of:

.1 the SOLAS Convention and the Radio Regulations with particular emphasis on:

.1.1 distress, urgency and safety radiocommunications,

.1.2 avoiding harmful interference, particularly with distress and safety traffic, and

.1.3 prevention of unauthorized transmissions;

.2 other documents relating to operational and communication procedures for distress, safety and public correspondence services, including charges, navigational warnings, and weather broadcasts in the Maritime Mobile Service and the Maritime Mobile Satellite Service; and

.3 use of the International Code of Signals and the Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary as replaced by the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases.

Watchkeeping and procedures

12 Knowledge of and training in:

.1 communication procedures and discipline to prevent harmful interference in GMDSS sub-systems;

.2 procedures for using propagation prediction information to establish optimum frequencies for communications;

.3 radiocommunication watchkeeping relevant to all GMDSS sub-systems, exchange of radiocommunication traffic, particularly concerning distress, urgency and safety procedures and radio records;

.4 use of the international phonetic alphabet;

.5 monitoring a distress frequency while simultaneously monitoring or working on at least one other frequency;

.6 ship reporting systems and procedures;

.7 radiocommunication procedures of the IMO Merchant Ship Search and Rescue Manual (MERSAR);

.8 radio medical systems and procedures; and

.9 causes of false distress alerts and means to avoid them.

Practical

13 Practical training, supported by appropriate laboratory work, should be given in:

.1 correct and efficient operation of all GMDSS sub-systems and equipment under normal propagation conditions and under typical interference conditions;

.2 safe operation of all the GMDSS communication equipment and ancillary devices, including safety precautions;

.3 adequate and accurate keyboard skills for the satisfactory exchange of communications;

.4 operational techniques for:

.4.1 receiver and transmitter adjustment for the appropriate mode of operation, including digital selective calling and direct-printing telegraphy,

.4.2 antenna adjustment and re-alignment, as appropriate,

.4.3 use of radio life-saving appliances, and

.4.4 use of emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs);

.5 antenna rigging, repair and maintenance, as appropriate;

.6 reading and understanding pictorial, logic and circuit diagrams;

.7 use and care of those tools and test instruments necessary to carry out at-sea electronic maintenance;

.8 manual soldering and desoldering techniques, including those involving semiconductor devices and modem circuits and the ability to distinguish whether the circuit is suitable to be manually soldered or desoldered;

.9 tracing and repair of faults to component level where practicable, and to board/module level in other cases;

.10 recognition and correction of conditions contributing to the fault occurring;

.11 maintenance procedures, both preventive and corrective for all GMDSS communication equipment and radionavigation equipment; and

.12 methods of alleviating electrical and electromagnetic interference such as bonding, shielding and bypassing.

Miscellaneous

14 Knowledge of and/or training in:

.1 the English language, both written and spoken, for the satisfactory exchange of communications relevant to the safety of life at sea;

.2 world geography, especially the principal shipping routes, services of rescue co-ordination centres (RCCs) and related communication routes;

.3 survival at sea, the operation of lifeboats, rescue boats, liferafts, buoyant apparatus and their equipment, with special reference to radio life-saving appliances;

.4 fire prevention and fire-fighting, with particular reference to the radio installation;

.5 preventive measures for the safety of ship and personnel in connection with hazards related to radio equipment, including electrical, radiation, chemical and mechanical hazards;

.6 first aid, including heart-respiration revival techniques; and

.7 co-ordinated universal time (UTC), global time zones and the international date line.

TRAINING RELATED TO THE SECOND-CLASS RADIOELECTRONIC CERTIFICATE

General

15 The requirements of medical fitness, especially as to hearing, eyesight and speech, should be met by the candidate before training is commenced.

16 The training should be relevant to the provisions of the STCW Convention, and the SOLAS Convention currently in force, with particular attention given to provisions for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). In developing training requirements, account should be taken of at least the knowledge and training given in paragraphs 17 to 28 hereunder.

Theory

17 Knowledge of the general principles and basic factors necessary for safe and efficient use of all sub-systems and equipment required in the GMDSS, sufficient to support the practical training provisions given in paragraph 27 below.

18 Knowledge of the use, operation and service areas of GMDSS sub-systems, including satellite system characteristics, navigational and meteorological warning systems and selection of appropriate communication circuits.

19 Knowledge of the principles of electricity and the theory of radio and electronics sufficient to meet the provisions given in paragraphs 20 to 24 below.

20 General theoretical knowledge of GMDSS radiocommunication equipment, including narrow-band direct-printing telegraph and radiotelephone transmitters and receivers, digital selective calling equipment, ship earth stations, emergency position-indicating radiobeacons (EPIRBs), marine antenna systems, radio equipment for survival craft together with all auxiliary items, including power supplies, as well as general knowledge of other equipment generally used for radionavigation, with particular reference to maintaining the equipment in service.

21 General knowledge of factors that affect system reliability, availability, maintenance procedures and proper use of test equipment.

22 General knowledge of microprocessors and fault diagnosis in systems using microprocessors.

23 General knowledge of control systems in the GMDSS radio equipment including testing and analysis.

24 Knowledge of the use of computer software for the GMDSS radio equipment and methods for correcting faults caused by loss of software control of the equipment.

Regulations and documentation

25 Knowledge of:

.1 the SOLAS Convention and the Radio Regulations with particular emphasis on:

.1.1 distress, urgency and safety radiocommunications, .1.2 avoiding harmful interference, particularly with distress and safety traffic, and

.1.3 the prevention of unauthorized transmissions;

.2 other documents relating to operational and communication procedures for distress, safety and public correspondence services, including charges, navigational warnings, and weather broadcasts in the Maritime Mobile Service and the Maritime Mobile Satellite Service; and

.3 the use of the International Code of Signals and the Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary as replaced by the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases.

Watchkeeping and procedures

26 Training should be given in:

.1 communication procedures and discipline to prevent harmful interference in GMDSS sub-systems;

.2 procedures for using propagation prediction information to establish optimum frequencies for communications;

.3 radiocommunication watchkeeping relevant to all GMDSS sub-systems, exchange of radiocommunication traffic, particularly concerning distress, urgency and safety procedures and radio records;

.4 use of the international phonetic alphabet;

.5 monitoring a distress frequency while simultaneously monitoring or working on at least one other frequency;

.6 ship reporting systems and procedures;

.7 radiocommunication procedures of the IMO Merchant Ship Search and Rescue Manual (MERSAR);

.8 radio medical systems and procedures; and

.9 causes of false distress alerts and means to avoid them.

Practical

27 Practical training, supported by appropriate laboratory work, should be given in:

.1 correct and efficient operation of all GMDSS sub-systems and equipment under normal propagation conditions and under typical interference conditions;

.2 safe operation of all the GMDSS communication equipment and ancillary devices, including safety precautions;

.3 adequate and accurate keyboard skills for the satisfactory exchange of communications;

.4 operational techniques for:

.4.1 receiver and transmitter adjustment for the appropriate mode of operation, including digital selective calling and direct-printing telegraphy,

.4.2 antenna adjustment and re-alignment, as appropriate,

.4.3 use of radio life-saving appliances, and

.4.4 use of emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs);

.5 antenna rigging, repair and maintenance, as appropriate;

.6 reading and understanding pictorial, logic and module interconnection diagrams;

.7 use and care of those tools and test instruments necessary to carry out at-sea electronic maintenance at the level of unit or module replacement;

.8 basic manual soldering and desoldering techniques and their limitations;

.9 tracing and repair of faults to board/module level;

.10 recognition and correction of conditions contributing to the fault occurring;

.11 basic maintenance procedures, both preventive and corrective, for all the GMDSS communication equipment and radionavigation equipment; and

.12 methods of alleviating electrical and electromagnetic interference such as bonding, shielding and bypassing.

Miscellaneous

28 Knowledge of, and/or training in:

.1 the English language, both written and spoken, for the satisfactory exchange of communications relevant to the safety of life at sea;

.2 world geography, especially the principal shipping routes, services of rescue co-ordination centres (RCCs) and related communication routes;

.3 survival at sea, the operation of lifeboats, rescue boats, liferafts, buoyant apparatus and their equipment, with special reference to radio life-saving appliances;

.4 fire prevention and fire-fighting, with particular reference to the radio installation;

.5 preventive measures for the safety of ship and personnel in connection with hazards related to radio equipment, including electrical, radiation, chemical and mechanical hazards;

.6 first aid, including heart-respiration revival techniques; and

.7 co-ordinated universal time (UTC), global time zones and international date line.

TRAINING RELATED TO THE GENERAL OPERATOR'S CERTIFICATE

General

29 The requirements of medical fitness, especially as to hearing, eyesight and speech, should be met by the candidate before training is commenced.

30 The training should be relevant to the provisions of the STCW Convention, the Radio Regulations and the SOLAS Convention currently in force, with particular attention given to provisions for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). In developing training requirements, account should be taken of at least the knowledge and training given in paragraphs 31 to 36 hereunder.

Theory

31 Knowledge of the general principles and basic factors necessary for safe and efficient use of all sub-systems and equipment required in the GMDSS sufficient to support the practical training provisions given in paragraph 35 below.

32 Knowledge of the use, operation and service areas of GMDSS sub-systems, including satellite system characteristics, navigational and meteorological warning systems and selection of appropriate communication circuits.

Regulations and documentation

33 Knowledge of:

.1 the SOLAS Convention and the Radio Regulations with particular emphasis on:

.1.1 distress, urgency and safety radiocommunications,

.1.2 avoiding harmful interference, particularly with distress and safety traffic, and

.1.3 prevention of unauthorized transmissions;

.2 other documents relating to operational and communication procedures for distress, safety and public correspondence services, including charges, navigational warnings, and weather broadcasts in the Maritime Mobile Service and the Maritime Mobile Satellite Service; and

.3 use of the International Code of Signals and the Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary as replaced by the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases.

Watchkeeping and procedures

34 Training should be given in:

.1 communication procedures and discipline to prevent harmful interference in GMDSS sub-systems;

.2 procedures for using propagation prediction information to establish optimum frequencies for communications;

.3 radiocommunication watchkeeping relevant to all GMDSS sub-systems, exchange of radiocommunication traffic, particularly concerning distress, urgency and safety procedures and radio records;

.4 use of the international phonetic alphabet;

.5 monitoring a distress frequency while simultaneously monitoring or working on at least one other frequency;

.6 ship reporting systems and procedures;

.7 radiocommunication procedures of the IMO Merchant Ship Search and Rescue Manual (MERSAR);

.8 radio medical systems and procedures; and

.9 causes of false distress alerts and means to avoid them.

Practical

35 Practical training should be given in:

.1 correct and efficient operation of all GMDSS sub-systems and equipment under normal propagation conditions and under typical interference conditions;

.2 safe operation of all the GMDSS communications equipment and ancillary devices, including safety precautions;

.3 accurate and adequate keyboard skills for the satisfactory exchange of communications; and

.4 operational techniques for:

.4.1 receiver and transmitter adjustment for the appropriate mode of operation, including digital selective calling and direct-printing telegraphy,

.4.2 antenna adjustment and re-alignment as appropriate,

.4.3 use of radio life-saving appliances, and

.4.4 use of emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs).

Miscellaneous

36 Knowledge of, and/or training in:

.1 the English language, both written and spoken, for the satisfactory exchange of communications relevant to the safety of life at sea;

.2 world geography, especially the principal shipping routes, services of rescue co-ordination centres (RCCs) and related communication routes;

.3 survival at sea, the operation of lifeboats, rescue boats, liferafts, buoyant apparatus and their equipment, with special reference to radio life-saving appliances;

.4 fire prevention and fire-fighting, with particular reference to the radio installation;

.5 preventive measures for the safety of ship and personnel in connection with hazards related to radio equipment, including electrical, radiation, chemical and mechanical hazards;

.6 first aid, including heart-respiration revival techniques; and

.7 co-ordinated universal time (UTC), global time zones and international date line.

TRAINING RELATED TO THE RESTRICTED OPERATOR'S CERTIFICATE

General

37 The requirements of medical fitness, especially as to hearing, eyesight and speech, should be met by the candidate before training is commenced.

38 The training should be relevant to the provisions of the STCW Convention, the Radio Regulations and the SOLAS Convention currently in force, with particular attention given to provisions for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). In developing training guidance, account should be taken of at least the knowledge and training given in paragraphs 39 to 44 hereunder.

Theory

39 Knowledge of the general principles and basic factors, including VHF range limitation and antenna height effect necessary for safe and efficient use of all sub-systems and equipment required in GMDSS in sea area A1, sufficient to support the training given in paragraph 43 below.

40 Knowledge of the use, operation and service areas of GMDSS sea area A1 sub-systems, e.g. navigational and meteorological warning systems and the appropriate communication circuits.

Regulations and documentation

41 Knowledge of:

.1 those parts of the SOLAS Convention and the Radio Regulations relevant to sea area A1, with particular emphasis on:

.1.1 distress, urgency and safety radiocommunications,

.1.2 avoiding harmful interference, particularly with distress and safety traffic, and

.1.3 prevention of unauthorized transmissions;

.2 other documents relating to operational and communication procedures for distress, safety and public correspondence services, including charges, navigational warnings and weather broadcasts in the Maritime Mobile Service in sea area A1; and

.3 use of the International Code of Signals and the Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary as replaced by the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases.

Watchkeeping and procedures

42 Training should be given in:

.1 communication procedures and discipline to prevent harmful interference in GMDSS sub-systems used in sea area A1;

.2 VHF communication procedures for:

.2.1 radiocommunication watchkeeping, exchange of radiocommunication traffic, particularly concerning distress, urgency and safety procedures and radio records,

.2.2 monitoring a distress frequency while simultaneously monitoring or working on at least one other frequency, and

.2.3 the digital selective calling system;

.3 use of the international phonetic alphabet;

.4 ship reporting systems and procedures;

.5 VHF radiocommunication procedures of the IMO Merchant Ship Search and Rescue Manual (MERSAR);

.6 radio medical systems and procedures; and

.7 causes of false distress alerts and means to avoid them.

Practical

43 Practical training should be given in:

.1 correct and efficient operation of the GMDSS sub-systems and equipment prescribed for ships operating in sea area A1 under normal propagation conditions and wider typical interference conditions;

.2 safe operation of relevant GMDSS communication equipment and ancillary devices, including safety precautions; and

.3 operational techniques for use of:

.3.1 VHF, including channel, squelch, and mode adjustment, as appropriate,

.3.2 radio life-saving appliances,

.3.3 emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs), and

.3.4 NAVTEX receivers.

Miscellaneous

44 Knowledge of, and/or training in:

.1 the English language, both written and spoken, for the satisfactory exchange of communications relevant to the safety of life at sea;

.2 services of rescue co-ordination centres (RCCs) and related communication routes;

.3 survival at sea, the operation of lifeboats, rescue boats, liferafts, buoyant apparatus and their equipment, with special reference to radio life-saving appliances;

.4 fire prevention and fire-fighting, with particular reference to the radio installation;

.5 preventive measures for the safety of ship and personnel in connection with hazards related to radio equipment, including electrical, radiation, chemical and mechanical hazards; and

.6 first aid, including heart-respiration revival techniques.

TRAINING RELATED TO MAINTENANCE OF GMDSS INSTALLATIONS ON BOARD SHIPS

General

45 Reference is made to the maintenance requirements of SOLAS Convention Regulation IV/15, and to IMO Resolution A.702(17) on Radio maintenance guidelines for the GMDSS related to sea areas A3 and A4, which includes in its Annex the following provision:

"4.2 The person designated to perform functions for at-sea electronic maintenance should either hold an appropriate certificate as specified by the Radio Regulations, as required, or have equivalent at-sea electronic maintenance qualifications, as may be approved by the Administration, taking into account the recommendations of the Organization on the training of such personnel."

46 The following guidance on equivalent electronic maintenance qualifications is provided for use by Administrations as appropriate.

47 Training as recommended below, does not qualify any person to be an operator of GMDSS radio equipment who does not hold an appropriate Radio Operator's Certificate.

Maintenance training equivalent to the First-Class Radioelectronic Certificate

48 In determining training equivalent to the elements of the listed First-Class Radioelectronic Certificate: .1 the theory content should cover at least the subjects given in paragraphs 3 to 10;

.2 the practical content should cover at least the subjects given in paragraph 13; and

.3 the miscellaneous knowledge included should cover at least the subjects given in paragraph 14.

Maintenance training equivalent to the Second-Class Radioelectronic Certificate

49 In determining training equivalent to the maintenance elements of the Second-Class Radioelectronic Certificate:

.1 the theory content should cover at least the subjects given in paragraphs 17 to 24;

.2 the practical content should cover at least the subjects given in paragraph 27; and

.3 the miscellaneous knowledge included should cover at least the subjects given in paragraph 28.

CHAPTER V

GUIDANCE REGARDING SPECIAL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONNEL ON CERTAIN TYPES OF SHIPS

Section B-V/1

Guidance regarding the training and qualifications of tanker personnel

Oil tanker training

1 The training required by paragraph 2.2 of Regulation V/1 in respect of oil tankers should be divided into two parts, a general part concerning principles involved and a part on the application of those principles to ship operation. Any of this training may be given on board or ashore. It should be supplemented by practical instruction on board and, where appropriate, in a suitable shore-based installation. All training and instruction should be given by properly qualified and suitably experienced personnel.

2 As much use as possible should be made of shipboard operation and equipment manuals, films and suitable visual aids, and the opportunity should be taken to introduce discussion of the part to be played by the safety organization on board ship and the role of safety officers and safety committees.

Chemical tanker training

3 The training required by paragraph 2.2 of Regulation V/1 in respect of chemical tankers should be divided into two parts, a general part concerning principles involved and a part on the application on board of those principles to ship operations. Any of this training may be given on board or ashore. It should be supplemented by practical instruction on board and, where appropriate, in a suitable shore-based installation. All training and instruction should be given by properly qualified and suitably experienced personnel.

4 As much use as possible should be made of shipboard operation and equipment manuals, films and suitable visual aids, and the opportunity should be taken to introduce discussion of the part to be played by the safety organization on board ship and the role of safely officers and safety committees.

Liquefied gas tanker training

5 The training required by paragraph 2.2 of Regulation V/1 in respect of liquefied gas tankers should be divided into the following two parts:

.1 supervised instruction, conducted in a shore-based facility or on board a specially equipped ship having training facilities and special instructors for this purpose, dealing with the principles involved and the application of these principles to ship operation, so however that Administrations may, in special situations, permit junior officers or ratings to be trained on board liquefied gas tankers on which they are serving, provided that such service is for a limited period, as established by the Administration, and that such crew members do not have duties or responsibilities in connection with cargo or cargo equipment and provided further that they are later trained in accordance with this guidance for any subsequent service; and

.2 supplementary shipboard training and experience, wherein the principles learned are applied to a particular type of ship and cargo-containment system.

All training and instruction should be given by properly qualified and suitably experienced personnel.

6 As much use as possible should be made of shipboard operation and equipment manuals, films and suitable visual aids, and the opportunity should be taken to introduce discussion of the part to be played by the safety organization on board ship and the role of safety officers and safety committees.

ON-BOARD TRAINING FOR ALL TANKER PERSONNEL

7 All tanker personnel should undergo training on board and, where appropriate, ashore, which should be given by qualified personnel experienced in the handling and characteristics of oil, chemical or liquefied gas cargoes as appropriate and the safety procedures involved. The training should at least cover the matters set out in paragraphs 9 to 15 below.

Regulations

8 Knowledge of the ship's rules and regulations governing the safety of personnel on board a tanker in port and at sea.

Health hazards and precautions to be taken

9 Dangers of skin contact; inhalation and accidental swallowing of cargo; oxygen deficiency, with particular reference to inert-gas systems; the harmful properties of cargoes carried, personnel accidents and associated first aid; lists of dos and don'ts.

Fire prevention and fire-fighting

10 Control of smoking and cooking restrictions; sources of ignition; fire and explosion prevention; methods of fire-fighting; of portable extinguishers and fixed installations.

Pollution prevention

11 Procedures to be followed to prevent air and water pollution and measures which will be taken in the event of spillage.

Safety equipment and its use

12 The proper use of protective clothing and equipment, resuscitators, escape and rescue equipment.

Emergency procedures

13 Familiarization with the emergency plan procedures.

Cargo equipment and operations

14 A general description of cargo-handling equipment; safe loading and discharge procedures and precautions and safe entry into enclosed spaces.

ON-BOARD TRAINING FOR LIQUEFIED GAS TANKER PERSONNEL

15 Personnel who are required to be trained under Regulation V/1 should be provided supplementary shipboard training and experience based on the ship's operation manual. Such training and experience should cover the following systems as applicable:

.1 the cargo handling system including piping systems; pumps; valves; expansion devices and vapour systems; service requirements and operating characteristics of the cargo handling systems and liquid re-circulation;

.2 instrumentation systems including cargo level indicators; gas-detection systems; hull and cargo temperature monitoring systems; the various methods of transmitting a signal from a sensor to the monitoring station and automatic shutdown systems;

.3 boil-off disposal including use as fuel; compressors; heat exchanger; gas piping and ventilation in machinery and manned spaces; principles of dual-fuel boilers, gas turbines, diesel engines; emergency venting and re-liquefication;

.4 auxiliary systems including ventilation and inerting; quick-closing, remote control, pneumatic, excess flow, safety relief, and pressure/vacuum valves; steam systems for voids, ballast tanks and condenser; and

.5 general principles of operating the cargo-handling plant including inerting cargo tanks and void spaces; tank cool-down and loading; operations during loaded and ballasted voyages; discharging and tank stripping; emergency procedures, and pre-planned action in the event of leaks, fires, collision, stranding, emergency cargo discharge and personnel casualty.

PROOF OF QUALIFICATION

16 The master of every oil, chemical and liquefied gas tanker should ensure that the officer primarily responsible for the cargo possesses an appropriate certificate, issued or endorsed or validated as required by Regulation V/1, paragraph 4 and has had adequate recent practical experience on board an appropriate type of tanker to permit that officer to safely perform the duties assigned.

Section B-V/2

Guidance regarding mandatory minimum requirements for the training and qualification of masters, officers, ratings and other personnel on ro-ro passenger ships

(No provisions)

Section B-V/3

Guidance regarding additional training for masters and chief mates of large ships and ships with unusual manoeuvring characteristics

1 It is important that masters and chief mates should have had relevant experience and training before assuming the duties of master or chief mate of large ships or ships having unusual manoeuvring and handling characteristics significantly different from those in which they have recently served. Such characteristics will generally be found in ships which are of considerable deadweight or length or of special design or of high speed.

2 Prior to their appointment to such a ship, masters and chief mates should:

.1 be informed of the ship's handling characteristics by the company, particularly in relation to the knowledge, understanding and proficiency listed under ship manoeuvring and handling in column 2 of table A-II/2 - Specification of the minimum standard of competence for masters and chief mates of ships of 500 gross tonnage or more; and

.2 be made thoroughly familiar with the use of all navigational and manoeuvring aids fitted in the ship concerned, including their capabilities and limitations.

3 Before initially assuming command of one of the ships referred to above, the prospective master should have sufficient and appropriate general experience as master or chief mate, and either:

.1 have sufficient and appropriate experience manoeuvring the same ship under supervision or in manoeuvring a ship having similar manoeuvring characteristics; or

.2 have attended an approved ship-handling simulator course on an installation capable of simulating the manoeuvring characteristics of such a ship.

4 The additional training and qualifications of masters and chief mates of dynamically supported and high speed craft should be in accordance with the relevant guidelines of the IMO Code of Safety for Dynamically Supported Craft and the IMO Code of Safety for High Speed Craft (HSC) Code, as appropriate.

Section B-V/4

Guidance regarding training of officers and ratings responsible for cargo handling on ships carrying dangerous and hazardous substances in solid form in bulk

1 Training should be divided into two parts, a general part on the principles involved and a part on the application of such principles to ship operation. All training and instruction should be given by properly qualified and suitably experienced personnel and cover at least the subjects given in paragraphs 2 to 15 hereunder.

PRINCIPLES

Characteristics and properties

2 The important physical characteristics and chemical properties of dangerous and hazardous substances, sufficient to give a basic understanding of the intrinsic hazards and risks involved.

Classification of materials possessing chemical hazards

3 IMO dangerous goods classes 4-9 and materials hazardous only in bulk (MHB) and the hazards associated with each class.

Health hazards

4 Dangers from skin contact, inhalation, ingestion and radiation.

Conventions, regulations and recommendations

5 General familiarization with the relevant requirements of Chapters II-2 and VII of the 1974 SOLAS Convention as amended.

6 General use of and familiarization with the Code of Safe Practice for Solid Bulk Cargoes (BC Code) with particular reference to:

.1 safety of personnel including safety equipment, measuring instruments, their use and practical application and interpretation of results;

.2 hazards from cargoes which have a tendency to shift; and

.3 materials possessing chemical hazards.

SHIPBOARD APPLICATION

Class 4.1 - Flammable solids

Class 4.2 - Substances liable to spontaneous combustion

Class 4.3 - Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases

7 Carriage, stowage and control of temperature to prevent decomposition and possible explosion; stowage categories; general stowage precautions, including those applicable to self-reactive and related substances; segregation requirements to prevent heating and ignition; the emission of poisonous or flammable gases and the formation of explosive mixtures.

Class 5.1 - Oxidizing substances

8 Carriage, stowage and control of temperature to prevent decomposition and possible explosion; stowage categories; general stowage precautions and segregation requirements to ensure separation from combustible material, from acids and heat sources to prevent fire, explosion and the formation of toxic gases.

Class 6.1 - Toxic substances

9 Contamination of foodstuffs, working areas and living accommodation and ventilation.

Class 7 - Radioactives

10 Transport index; types of ores and concentrates; stowage and segregation from persons, undeveloped photographic film and plates and foodstuffs; stowage categories; general stowage requirements; special stowage requirements; segregation requirements and separation distances; segregation from other dangerous goods.

Class 8 - Corrosives

11 Dangers from wetted substances.

Class 9 - Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles

12 Examples and associated hazards; the hazards of materials hazardous only in bulk (MHB); general and specific stowage precautions; working and transport precautions; segregation requirements.

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

13 Electrical safety in cargo spaces; precautions to be taken for entry into enclosed spaces that may contain oxygen depleted, poisonous or flammable atmospheres; the possible effects of fire in shipments of substances of each class; use of the Emergency Procedures for Ships Carrying Dangerous Goods; emergency plans and procedures to be followed in case of incidents involving dangerous and hazardous substances and the use of individual entries in the Code of Safe Practice for Solid Bulk Cargoes in this respect.

Medical first aid

14 The IMO Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving Dangerous Goods (MFAG) and its use and application in association with other guides and medical advice by radio.

Section B-V/5

Guidance regarding training of officers and ratings responsible for cargo handling on ships carrying dangerous and hazardous substances in packaged form

1 Training should be divided into two parts, a general part on the principles involved and a part on the application of such principles to ship operation. All training and instruction should be given by properly qualified and suitably experienced personnel and cover at least the subjects given in paragraphs 2 to 19 hereunder.

PRINCIPLES

Characteristics and properties

2 The important physical characteristics and chemical properties of dangerous and hazardous substances, sufficient to give a basic understanding of the intrinsic hazards and risks involved.

Classification of dangerous and hazardous substances and materials possessing chemical hazards

3 IMO dangerous goods classes 1-9 and the hazards associated with each class; materials hazardous only in bulk (MHB).

Health hazards

4 Dangers from skin contact, inhalation, ingestion and radiation.

Conventions, regulations and recommendations

5 General familiarization with the relevant requirements of Chapters II-2 and VII of the 1974 SOLAS Convention and of Annex III of MARPOL73/78 including its implementation through the IMDG Code.

Use of and familiarization with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code

6 General knowledge of the requirements of the IMDG Code concerning declaration, documentation, packing, labelling and placarding; freight container and vehicle packing; portable tanks, tank containers and road tank vehicles, and other transport units used for dangerous substances.

7 Knowledge of identification, marking, labelling, for stowage, securing, separation and segregation in different ship types mentioned in the IMDG Code.

8 Safety of personnel including safety equipment, measuring instruments, their use and practical application and the interpretation of results.

SHIPBOARD APPLICATION

Class 1 - Explosives

9 The 6 hazard divisions and 13 compatibility groups; packagings and magazines used for carriage of explosives; structural serviceability of freight containers and vehicles; stowage provisions, including specific arrangements for on-deck and under deck stowage; segregation from dangerous goods of other classes within class 1 and from non-dangerous goods; transport and stowage on passenger ships; suitability of cargo spaces; security precautions; precautions to be taken during loading and unloading.

Class 2 - Gases (compressed, liquefied, refrigerated liquefied or gases in solution) flammable, non-compressed, non-poisonous and poisonous

10 Types of pressure vessels and portable tanks including relief and closing devices used; stowage categories; general stowage precautions including those for flammable and poisonous gases and gases which are marine pollutants.

Class 3 - Flammable liquids

11 Packagings, tank containers, portable tanks and road tank vehicles; stowage categories, including the specific requirements for plastics receptacles; general stowage precautions including those for marine pollutants; segregation requirements; precautions to be taken when carrying flammable liquids at elevated temperatures.

Class 4.1 - Flammable solids

Class 4.2 - Substances liable to spontaneous combustion

Class 4.3 - Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases

12 Types of packagings; carriage and stowage under controlled temperatures to prevent decomposition and possible explosion; stowage categories; general stowage precautions, including those applicable to self-reactive and related substances, desensitized explosives and marine pollutants; segregation requirements to prevent heating and ignition, the emission of poisonous or flammable gases and the formation of explosive mixtures.

Class 5.1 - Oxidizing substances

Class 5.2 - Organic peroxides

13 Types of packagings; carriage and stowage under controlled temperatures to prevent decomposition and possible explosion; stowage categories; general stowage precautions, including those applicable to marine pollutants; segregation requirements to ensure separation from combustible material, from acids and heat sources to prevent fire, explosion and the formation of toxic gases; precautions to minimize friction and impact which can initiate decomposition.

Class 6.1 - Toxic substances

Class 6.2 - Infectious substances

14 Types of packagings; stowage categories; general stowage precautions including those applicable to toxic, flammable liquids and marine pollutants; segregation requirements, especially considering that the characteristic common to these substances is their ability to cause death or serious injury to human health; decontamination measures in the event of spillage.

Class 7 - Radioactives

15 Types of packagings; transport index in relation to stowage and segregation; stowage and segregation from persons, undeveloped photographic film and plates and foodstuffs; stowage categories; general stowage requirements; segregation requirements and separation distances; segregation from other dangerous goods.

Class 8 - Corrosives

16 Types of packagings; stowage categories; general stowage precautions, including those applicable to corrosive, flammable liquids and marine pollutants; segregation requirements, especially considering that the characteristic common to these substances is their ability to cause severe damage to living tissue.

Class 9 - Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles

17 Examples of hazards including marine pollution.

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

18 Electrical safety in cargo spaces; precautions to be taken for entry into enclosed spaces that may contain oxygen depleted, poisonous or flammable atmospheres; the possible effects of spillage or fire in shipments of substances of each class; consideration of events on deck or below deck; use of the IMO Emergency Procedures for Ships Carrying Dangerous Goods; emergency plans and procedures to be followed in case of incidents involving dangerous substances.

Medical first aid

19 The IMO Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving Dangerous Goods (MFAG) and its use and application in association with other guides and medical advice by radio.

CHAPTER VI

GUIDANCE REGARDING EMERGENCY, OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY, MEDICAL CARE AND SURVIVAL FUNCTIONS

Section B-VI/1

Guidance regarding familiarization and basic safety training and instruction for all seafarers

Fire prevention and fire-fighting

1 The basic training in fire prevention and fire-fighting required by Section A-VI/1 should include at least the theoretical and practical elements itemized in paragraphs 2 to 4 hereunder.

Theoretical training

2 The theoretical training should cover:

.1 the three elements of fire and explosion (the fire triangle), fuel; source of ignition; oxygen;

.2 ignition sources: chemical; biological; physical;

.3 flammable materials; flammability; ignition point; burning temperature; burning speed; thermal value; lower flammable limit (LFL); upper flammable limit (UFL); flammable range; inerting; static electricity; flashpoint; auto-ignition;

.4 fire hazard and spread of fire by radiation, convection, and conduction;

.5 reactivity;

.6 classification of fires and applicable extinguishing agents;

.7 main causes of fire on board ships: oil leakage in engine-room; cigarettes; overheating (bearings); galley appliances (stoves, flues, fryers, hotplates, etc.); spontaneous ignition (cargo, wastes, etc.); hot work (welding, cutting, etc.); electrical apparatus (short circuit, non-professional repairs); reaction, self-heating and auto-ignition; arson; static electricity;

.8 fire prevention;

.9 fire and smoke detection systems; automatic fire alarms;

.10 fire-fighting equipment including:

.10.1 fixed installations on board and their locations; fire mains, hydrants; international shore connection; smothering installations, carbon dioxide (CO2), foam; halogenated hydrocarbons; pressure water spray system in special category spaces, etc.; automatic sprinkler system; emergency fire pump; emergency generator; chemical powder applicants; general outline of required and available mobile apparatus; high pressure fog system; high expansion foam; new developments and equipment;

.10.2 firefighter's outfit, personal equipment; breathing apparatus; resuscitation apparatus; smoke helmet or mask; fireproof life-line and harness; and their location on board; and

.10.3 general equipment including fire hoses, nozzles, connections, fire axes; portable fire extinguishers; fire blankets;

.11 construction and arrangements including escape routes; means for gas freeing tanks; Class A, B and C divisions; inert gas systems;

.12 ship fire-fighting organization, including general alarm; fire control plans, muster stations and duties of individuals; communications, including ship-shore when in port; personnel safety procedures; periodic shipboard drills; patrol systems;

.13 practical knowledge of resuscitation methods;

.14 fire-fighting methods including sounding the alarm; locating and isolating; jettisoning; inhibiting; cooling; smothering; extinguishing; reflash watch; smoke extraction; and

.15 fire-fighting agents including water, solid jet, spray, fog, flooding; foam, high, medium and low expansion; carbon dioxide (CO2); halon; aqueous film forming foam (AFFF); dry chemical powder; new developments and equipment.

Practical training

3 The practical training given below should take place in spaces which provide truly realistic training conditions (e.g. simulated shipboard conditions), and whenever possible and practical should also be carried out in darkness as well as by daylight and should allow the trainees to acquire the ability to:

.1 use various types of portable fire extinguishers;

.2 use self-contained breathing apparatus;

.3 extinguish smaller fires, e.g. electrical fires, oil fires and propane fires;

.4 extinguish extensive fires with water (jet and spray nozzles);

.5 extinguish fires with either foam, powder or any other suitable chemical agent;

.6 enter and pass through, with life-line but without breathing apparatus, a compartment into which high expansion foam has been injected;

.7 fight fire in smoke-filled enclosed spaces wearing self-contained breathing apparatus;

.8 extinguish fire with water fog, or any other suitable fire-fighting agent in accommodation room or simulated engine-room with fire and heavy smoke;

.9 extinguish an oil fire with fog applicator and spray nozzles; dry chemical powder or foam applicators;

.10 effect a rescue in a smoke-filled space wearing breathing apparatus.

General

4 Trainees should also be made aware of the necessity of maintaining a state of readiness on board.

Elementary first aid

5 The training in elementary first aid required by Regulation VI/1 as part of the basic training should be given at an early stage in vocational training, preferably during pre-sea training, to enable seafarers to take immediate action upon encountering an accident or other medical emergency until the arrival of a person with first aid skills or the person in charge of medical care on board.

Personal safety and social responsibilities

6 Administrations should bear in mind the significance of communication and language skills in maintaining safety of life and property at sea and in preventing marine pollution. Given the international character of the maritime industry, the reliance on voice communications from ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore, the increasing use of multi-national crews, and the concern that crew members should be able to communicate with passengers in an emergency, adoption of a common language for maritime communications would promote safe practice by reducing the risk of human error in communicating essential information.

7 Although not universal, by common practice English is rapidly becoming the standard language of communication for maritime safety purposes, partly as a result of the use of the Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary, as replaced by the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases.

8 Administrations should consider the benefits of ensuring that seafarers have an ability to use at least an elementary English vocabulary, with an emphasis on nautical terms and situations.

Section B-VI/2

Guidance regarding certification for proficiency in survival craft, rescue boats and fast rescue boats

1 Before training is commenced the requirement of medical fitness, particularly regarding eyesight and hearing, should be met by the candidate.

2 The training should be relevant to the provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), as amended.

Section B-VI/3

Guidance regarding training in advanced fire-fighting

(No provisions)

Section B-VI/4

Guidance regarding requirements in medical first aid and medical care

(No provisions)

CHAPTER VII

GUIDANCE REGARDING ALTERNATIVE CERTIFICATION

Section B-VII/1

Guidance regarding the issue of alternative certificates

(No provisions)

Section B-VII/2

Guidance regarding certification of seafarers

(No provisions)

Section B-VII/3

Guidance regarding principles governing the issue of alternative certificates

(No provisions)

CHAPTER VIII

GUIDANCE REGARDING WATCHKEEPING

Section B-VIII/1

Guidance regarding fitness for duty

Prevention of fatigue

1 In observing the rest period requirements, "overriding operational conditions" should be construed to mean only essential shipboard work which cannot be delayed for safety or environmental reasons or which could not reasonably have been anticipated at the commencement of the voyage.

2 Although there is no universally accepted technical definition of fatigue, everyone involved in ship operations should be alert to the factors which can contribute to fatigue, including, but not limited to those identified by the Organization, and take them into account when making decisions on ship operations.

3 In applying Regulation VIII/1, the following should be taken into account:

.1 provisions made to prevent fatigue should ensure that excessive or unreasonable overall working hours are not undertaken. In particular, the minimum rest periods specified in Section A-VIII/1 should not he interpreted as implying that all other hours may be devoted to watchkeeping or other duties;

.2 that the frequency and length of leave periods, and the granting of compensatory leave, are material factors in preventing fatigue from building up over a period of time;

.3 the provisions may be varied for ships on short-sea voyages, provided special safety arrangements are put in place; and

4 Administrations should consider the introduction of a requirement that records of hours of work or rest of seafarers should be maintained and that such records are inspected by the Administration at appropriate intervals to ensure compliance with regulations concerning working hours or rest periods.

5 Based on information received as a result of investigating maritime casualties, Administrations should keep their provisions on prevention of fatigue under review.

Section B-VIII/2

Guidance regarding watchkeeping arrangements and principles to be observed

1 The following operational guidance should be taken into account by companies, masters and watchkeeping officers.

PART 1 - GUIDANCE ON CERTIFICATION

(No provisions)

PART 2 - GUIDANCE ON VOYAGE PLANNING

(No provisions)

PART 3 - GUIDANCE ON WATCHKEEPING AT SEA

(No provisions)

PART 3-1 - GUIDANCE ON KEEPING A NAVIGATIONAL WATCH

Introduction

2 Particular guidance may be necessary for special types of ships as well as for ships carrying hazardous, dangerous, toxic or highly flammable cargoes. The master should provide this operational guidance as appropriate.

3 It is essential that officers in charge of the navigational watch appreciate that the efficient performance of their duties is necessary in the interests of the safety of life and property at sea and of preventing pollution of the marine environment.

Bridge resource management

4 Companies should issue guidance on proper bridge procedures, and promote the use of checklists appropriate to each ship taking into account national and international guidance.

5 Companies should also issue guidance to masters and officers in charge of the navigational watch on each ship concerning the need for continuously reassessing how bridge-watch resources are being allocated and used, based on bridge resource management principles such as the following:

.1 a sufficient number of qualified individuals should be on watch to ensure all duties can be performed effectively;

.2 all members of the navigational watch should be appropriately qualified and fit to perform their duties efficiently and effectively or the officer in charge of the navigational watch should take into account any limitation in qualifications or fitness of the individuals available when making navigational and operational decisions;

.3 duties should be clearly and unambiguously assigned to specific individuals, who should confirm that they understand their responsibilities;

.4 tasks should be performed according to a clear order of priority;

.5 no member of the navigational watch should be assigned more duties or more difficult tasks than can be performed effectively;

.6 individuals should be assigned at all times to locations at which they can most efficiently and effectively perform their duties, and individuals should be reassigned to other locations as circumstances may require;

.7 members of the navigational watch should not be assigned to different duties, tasks or locations until the officer in charge of the navigational watch is certain that the adjustment can be accomplished efficiently and effectively;

.8 instruments and equipment considered necessary for effective performance of duties should be readily available to appropriate members of the navigational watch;

.9 communications among members of the navigational watch should be clear, immediate, reliable, and relevant to the business at hand;

.10 non-essential activity and distractions should be avoided, suppressed or removed;

.11 all bridge equipment should be operating properly and if not, the officer in charge of the navigational watch should take into account any malfunction which may exist in making operational decisions;

.12 all essential information should be collected, processed and interpreted, and made conveniently available to those who require it for the performance of their duties;

.13 non-essential materials should not be placed on the bridge or any work surface; and

.14 members of the navigational watch should at all times be prepared to respond efficiently and effectively to changes in circumstances.

PART 3-2 - GUIDANCE ON KEEPING AN ENGINEERING WATCH

6 Particular guidance may be necessary for special types of propulsion systems or ancillary equipment and for ships carrying hazardous, dangerous, toxic or highly flammable materials or other special types of cargo. The chief engineer officer should provide this operational guidance as appropriate.

7 It is essential that officers in charge of the engineering watch appreciate that the efficient performance of engineering watchkeeping duties is necessary in the interest of the safety of life and property at sea and of preventing pollution of the marine environment.

8 The relieving officer, before assuming charge of the engineering watch, should:

.1 be familiar with the location and use of the equipment provided for the safety of life in a hazardous or toxic environment;

.2 ascertain that materials for the administration of emergency medical first aid are readily available, particularly those required for the treatment of burns and scalds; and

.3 when in port, safely anchored or moored, be aware of:

.3.1 cargo activities, the status of maintenance and repair functions and all other operations affecting the watch, and

.3.2 the auxiliary machinery in use for passenger or crew accommodation services, cargo operations, operational water supplies and exhaust systems.

PART 3-3 - GUIDANCE ON KEEPING A RADIO WATCH

General

9 Among other things, the Radio Regulations require that each ship radio station is licensed, is under the ultimate authority of the master or other person responsible for the ship and is only operated under the control of adequately qualified personnel. The Radio Regulations also require that a distress alert shall only be sent on the authority of the master or other person responsible for the ship.

10 The master should bear in mind that all personnel assigned responsibility for sending a distress alert must be instructed with regard to, be knowledgeable of, and be able to operate properly, all radio equipment on the ship as required by Regulation I/14, paragraph 1.4. This should be recorded in the deck or radio log-book.

Watchkeeping

11 In addition to the requirements concerning radiowatchkeeping, the master of every seagoing ship should ensure that:

.1 the ship's radio station is adequately manned for the purpose of exchanging general communications - in particular public correspondence, taking into account the constraints imposed by the duties of those authorized to operate it; and

.2 the radio equipment provided on board and, where fitted, the reserve sources of energy, are maintained in an efficient working condition.

12 Necessary instruction and information on use of radio equipment and procedures for distress and safety purposes should be given periodically to all relevant crew members by the person designated in the muster list to have primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents. This should be recorded in the radio log.

13 The master of every ship not subject to the SOLAS Convention should require that radio watchkeeping is adequately maintained as determined by the Administration, taking into account the Radio Regulations.

Operational

14 Prior to sailing, the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents should ensure that:

.1 all distress and safety radio equipment and the reserve source of energy are in an efficient working condition, and that this is recorded in the radio log;

.2 all documents required by international agreement, notices to ship radio stations and additional documents required by the Administration are available and are corrected in accordance with the latest supplements, and that any discrepancy is reported to the master;

.3 the radio clock is correctly set against standard time signals;

.4 antennae are correctly positioned, undamaged and properly connected; and

.5 to the extent practicable, routine weather and navigational warning messages for the area in which the ship will be navigating are updated together with those for other areas requested by the master, and that such messages are passed to the master.

15 On sailing and opening the station, the radio operator on watch should:

.1 listen on the appropriate distress frequencies for any possible existing distress situation; and

.2 send a traffic report (name, position and destination, etc.) to the local coast station and any other appropriate coast station from which general communications may be expected.

16 While the station is open, the radio operator on watch should.

.1 check the radio clock against standard time signals at least once a day;

.2 send a traffic report when entering and on leaving the service area of a coast station from which general communications might be expected, and

.3 transmit reports to ship reporting systems in accordance with the instructions of the master.

17 While at sea, the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents should ensure the proper functioning of:

.1 the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) distress and safety radio equipment by means of a test call at least once each week; and

.2 the distress and safety radio equipment by means of a test at least once each day but without radiating any signal.

The results of these tests should be recorded in the radio log.

18 The radio operator designated to handle general communications should ensure that an effective watch is maintained on those frequencies on which communications are likely to be exchanged, having regard to the position of the ship in relation to those coast stations and to coast earth stations from which traffic may be expected. When exchanging traffic, radio operators should follow the relevant ITU recommendations.

19 When closing the station on arrival at a port, the radio operator on watch should advise the local coast station and other coast stations with which contact has been maintained of the ship's arrival and of the closing of the station.

20 When closing the radio station the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents should:

.1 ensure that transmitting antennae are earthed; and

.2 check that the reserve sources of energy are sufficiently charged.

Distress alerts and procedures

21 The distress alert or distress call has absolute priority over all other transmissions. All stations which receive such signals are required by the Radio Regulations to immediately cease all transmissions capable of interfering with distress communications.

22 In the case of a distress affecting own ship, the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents should immediately assume responsibility for following the procedures of the Radio Regulations and relevant ITU-R Recommendations.

23 On receiving a distress alert:

.1 the radio operator on watch should alert the master and, if appropriate, the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents; and

.2 the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents should evaluate the situation and immediately assume responsibility for following the procedures of the Radio Regulations and relevant ITU-R Recommendations.

Urgency messages

24 in cases of urgency affecting own ship, the radio operator designated as having responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents should immediately assume responsibility for following the procedures of the Radio Regulations and relevant ITU-R Recommendations.

25 In cases of communications relating to medical advice, the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents should follow the procedures of the Radio Regulations and adhere to the conditions as published in the relevant international documentation (see paragraph 14.2) or as specified by the satellite service provider.

26 In cases of communications relating to medical transports, as defined in the Annex 1 to the Protocol additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949 relating to the protection of victims of international armed conflicts (Protocol 1), the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunication during distress incidents should follow the procedures of the Radio Regulations.

27 On receiving an urgency message, the radio operator on watch should alert the master and, if appropriate, the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents.

Safety messages

28 When a safety message is to be transmitted, the master and the radio operator on watch should follow the procedures of the Radio Regulations.

29 On receiving a safety message, the radio operator on watch should note its content and act in accordance with the master's instructions.

30 Bridge-to-bridge communications should be exchanged on VHF channel 13. Bridge-to-bridge communications are described as "Intership Navigation Safety Communications" in the Radio Regulations.

Radio records

31 Additional entries in the radio log should be made in accordance with paragraphs 10, 12, 14, 17 and 33.

32 Unauthorized transmissions and incidents of harmful interference should, if possible, be identified, recorded in the radio log and brought to the attention of the Administration in compliance with the Radio Regulations, together with an appropriate extract from the radio log.

Battery maintenance

33 Batteries providing a source of energy for any part of the radio installation including those associated with uninterrupted power supplies are the responsibility of the radio operator designated as having primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents and should be:

.1 tested on-load and off-load daily and, where necessary, brought up to the fully charged condition;

.2 tested once per week by means of a hydrometer where practicable, or where a hydrometer cannot be used, by a suitable load test; and

.3 checked once per month for the security of each battery and its connections and the condition of the batteries and their compartment or compartments.

The results of these tests should be recorded in the radio log.

PART 4 - GUIDANCE ON WATCHKEEPING IN PORT

(No provisions)

PART 5 - GUIDANCE ON PREVENTION OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE

34 Drug and alcohol abuse directly affect the fitness and ability of a seafarer to perform watchkeeping duties. Seafarers found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol should not be permitted to perform watchkeeping duties until they are no longer impaired in their ability to perform those duties.

35 Administrations should consider developing national legislation:

.1 prescribing a maximum of 0.08% blood alcohol level (BAC) during watchkeeping duty as a minimum safety standard on their ships; and

.2 prohibiting the consumption of alcohol within 4 hours prior to serving as a member of a watch.

Drug and alcohol abuse screening program guidelines

36 The Administration should ensure that adequate measures are taken to prevent alcohol and drugs from impairing the ability of watchkeeping personnel, and should establish screening programs as necessary which:

.1 identify drug and alcohol abuse;

.2 respect the dignity, privacy, confidentiality and fundamental legal rights of the individuals concerned; and

.3 take into account relevant international guidelines.