Seafaring is a profession that is heavily regulated due to the inherent risks and dangers that come with working on board ships. Governments and international organizations have developed numerous conventions and regulations to ensure the safety and welfare of seafarers, as well as to prevent marine pollution and maintain high standards of maritime operations. In this article, we will discuss the latest regulations and conventions related to seafarers that are currently in force.

1. Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 The MLC is a comprehensive convention that sets out the minimum requirements for seafarers’ working conditions, including hours of work and rest, accommodation, and medical care. It also establishes seafarers’ rights to social security, leave, and repatriation. The convention applies to all ships engaged in commercial activities, regardless of their flag state, and has been ratified by over 90 countries.
2. International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974 SOLAS is the most important international treaty governing the safety of ships. It establishes minimum safety standards for ships, including their construction, equipment, and operation. The convention also requires ships to carry lifesaving and fire-fighting equipment, and to undergo regular safety inspections. SOLAS has been updated several times since its adoption in 1974, and the latest amendments entered into force in 2020.
3. International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) 1978 The STCW convention sets the minimum standards for training, certification, and watchkeeping for seafarers. It ensures that seafarers are trained to a high standard and have the necessary skills and competencies to perform their duties safely and effectively. The convention has been amended several times since its adoption in 1978, and the latest amendments entered into force in 2017.
4. Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC) 2004 The BWMC aims to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens by ships’ ballast water. It requires ships to manage their ballast water to meet specific standards and to carry a ballast water management plan and record book. The convention has been ratified by over 80 countries and entered into force in 2017.
5. International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) 1973 MARPOL is the main international treaty governing the prevention of marine pollution. It sets out regulations for the prevention of pollution from ships, including their emissions, discharges, and disposal of waste. The convention has been amended several times since its adoption in 1973, and the latest amendments entered into force in 2020.
6. International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS) 2002 The ISPS Code is a set of mandatory security measures for ships and ports aimed at preventing security threats to ships and port facilities. The code requires ships to have a security plan and to undergo security inspections and audits. It also requires ports to have security plans and to establish security levels. The code has been in force since 2004 and is regularly reviewed and updated.
7. International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage (CLC) 1969 The CLC is a treaty that sets out liability and compensation for damage caused by oil pollution from ships. It establishes a liability and compensation regime for victims of oil pollution, including cleanup costs, economic losses, and damage to natural resources. The convention has been amended several times since its adoption in 1969, and the latest amendments entered into force in 2020.

In conclusion, seafarers operate in a highly regulated industry, with numerous conventions and regulations governing their working conditions, safety, and environmental impact

We hope you found this article insightful and informative. At Navigators Corner, our goal is to provide valuable information and resources for the maritime community. If you found this article helpful, please consider sharing it with your friends and colleagues. Stay tuned for more updates and new content on our blog and Facebook page.

Thank you for your support!