Certification for seafarers is verified during each PSC inspection. On 1 January 2017 new STCW requirements enter into force and seafarers may need new certificates.
In line with a recommendation from the International Maritime Organization (MSC.1/Circ.1560), the Paris MoU has agreed on a harmonized approach.
Representation Image – Credits: konsberg.com
In cases where a seafarer’s documentation complied with the requirements in force immediately before 1 January 2017, but was not in accordance with the requirements of the 2010 Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention, PSCOs should take a pragmatic and practical approach during inspections until 1 July 2017.
When a deficiency is found this will not result in the ship being detained.
However, a deficiency may be recorded and the master will be instructed to rectify the deficiency before 1 July 2017.
Reference: parismou.org
What are they talking about here? Who will bear the cost? They are just making me to hate the seafaring job. Which other industries are always changing their certificates as they do in the maritime industries even if it is a professional job? Every 5 years the seafarer will be mandated to go and renew his certificates. This is neo-exploitation. Are they trying to tell us that the seafarer has no retentive long time memory to hold on to things learnt? It’s like they want guys like us off the trade. Let them keep coming up with new policies and if i can’t afford it any more then i will quit. Enough of this.
If I completed all my STCW courses in Cape Town last year August through the department of Maritime, am I ok? Also, do I have to do a medical in my home country if I am not currently residing there?