STCW

Overview

STCW is the international standard that sets minimum requirements for training, certification and watchkeeping of seafarers. It is not a single exam. Each country's maritime authority issues the certificates, and the required courses and assessments are set under the Convention. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted it on 7 July 1978, and it came into force on 28 April 1984.

Who can apply

STCW applies to seafarers who serve on seagoing ships, including masters, deck officers, engine room staff and radio operators. It also covers specialised roles such as tanker personnel and security officers.

Levels or stages

The Convention has eight chapters.

• General provisions

• Master and deck department

• Engine department

• Radiocommunication and radio personnel

• Special training requirements for personnel on certain types of ships

• Emergency, occupational safety, security, medical care and survival functions

• Alternative certification

• Watchkeeping

The STCW Code backs the chapters. Part A holds mandatory provisions and Part B holds recommended guidance.

Syllabus

The 2010 Manila amendments updated the Convention. They added measures against fraudulent certificates, stronger checks on compliance, medical standards, rules on hours of work and rest, prevention of drug and alcohol abuse, new certification for deck and engine ratings, training in electronic navigation, environmental awareness training and security training for piracy.

How to apply

Seafarers apply for certificates through the maritime authority of the country that issues them, which sets its own course providers, fees and sea-service evidence. Check your own authority's current rules.

Preparation tips

• Find your maritime authority's list of approved training providers before booking any course.

• Keep records of sea service, since they support certificate applications.