About
INTERCARGO is concerned about the number of seafarers that may be available to meet the future needs of an expanding bulk carrier fleet and where these professionals might be sourced. In addition, the adequacy of the existing training regime for the modern safety-conscious bulk carrier sector is being considered.
INTERCARGO Policy
INTERCARGO believes that far more attention must be paid to the quantum and quality of seafarers’ training if the future Bulk Carrier fleet is to be efficiently manned and accidents reduced.
Comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code
The IMO Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW) have agreed on a roadmap for the comprehensive review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and the accompanying STCW Code.
The Sub-Committee agreed on a two-step methodology: a review of the Convention and Code to identify gaps (Phase 1) and then a revision stage to develop amendments to address those gaps (Phase 2).
HTW 11, held in February 2025, agreed that phase 1 (review/identification of gaps) was completed and that phase 2 of the comprehensive review was commenced. According to the roadmap outlining a timeline for action, HTW 17 in 2031 is expected to finalize the revision of the Convention and Code.
Interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies
HTW 10, in Feb 2024, discussed the development of training provisions for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels. It agreed that the work related to this issue should be separate from the work on the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code.
HTW 11 finalised the draft generic interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies, for submission to MSC 110 with a view to approval as an STCW.7 circular in Jun 2025.
HTW 11 agreed to establish a correspondence group to develop draft interim guidelines as individual sets of fuel/technology-specific interim guidelines, addressing:
- the use of methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel
- the use of ammonia as fuel
- hydrogen fuel cell powered ships
- the use of LPG as fuel
- the use of hydrogen as fuel
- battery powered ship
Updates
