1995 Revision
On July 7, 1995 the IMO adopted a comprehensive revision of STCW. They also included a proposal to develop a new STCW Code, which would contain the technical details associated with provisions of the Convention. The amendments entered force on February 1, 1997. Full implementation was required by February 1, 2002. Mariners already holding licenses had the option to renew those licenses in accordance with the old rules of the 1978 Convention during the period ending on February 1, 2002. Mariners entering training programs after August 1, 1998 are required to meet the competency standards of the new 1995 Amendments.
The most significant amendments concerned:
- a) enhancement of port state control;
- b) communication of information to IMO to allow for mutual oversight and consistency in application of standards,
- c) quality standards systems (QSS), oversight of training, assessment, and certification procedures,
- The Amendments require that seafarers be provided with "familiarization training" and "basic safety training" which includes basic fire fighting, elementary first aid, personal survival techniques, and personal safety and social responsibility. This training is intended to ensure that seafarers are aware of the hazards of working on a vessel and can respond appropriately in an emergency.
- d) placement of responsibility on parties, including those issuing licenses, and flag states employing foreign nationals, to ensure seafarers meet objective standards of competence, and
- e) rest period requirements for watchkeeping personnel.
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