RS reports on the outcomes of the IMO Intersessional Working Group on the Comprehensive Review of the STCW

On behalf of RS, the Russian delegation was represented by Sergey Vasilevsky, Chief Specialist of the Management Systems Certification Department.

The session envisions a two-step approach: a gap analysis of existing practices followed by the development of targeted changes. The Intersessional Working Group met as part of the first phase, where participants were presented with over 50 documents from States and international organizations outlining possible shortcomings of the STCW Convention and Code. The Group was to analyze the materials and find possible ways of improving the regulatory framework.

The following documents were drafted:

· a general list of regulatory gaps grouped by topic, such as simulator and alternative training; personal and management skills; cyber security, ballast water management, seafarer safety, mental health and psychological safety, etc. The document will form the basis for the second phase of the work;

· a list of areas for further analysis, including requirements for the training of officers in charge of a navigational watch and deck department, engineer officers, electro-technical officers and radio operators, as well as sections on the training of personnel serving on certain types of ships and emergency guides.

The chosen strategy will allow for a more comprehensive and effective approach to the development of amendments to international maritime law.

Practical work on the Comprehensive Review of the STCW Convention and Code will continue in 2025, with a view to adopting amendments no later than 2027.

Additional information:

Founded in 1913, Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) is a world-renowned classification society that operates within all spheres of the maritime industry with the goal of improving the operational and environmental safety of marine transportation. RS reviews technical documentation, surveys ships and offshore facilities under construction and in service, certifies vessels and companies for compliance with international conventions, recognizes and certifies industrial products and manufacturers, certifies quality management systems for compliance with international and national standards.

Today, RS is actively implementing the concept "More than class" by expanding its scope of services in the field of engineering and consulting, the development of technical documentation for vessels in service, marine warranty surveys and certification. In addition, RS surveys all container types, including tank containers and offshore containers, confirms compliance of packaging for dangerous goods, as well as renders services on the declaration and certification of dangerous goods and bulk cargoes.