Amendments to the STCW Code regarding the prevention of violence and harassment
The amendment introduces a new competency requirement as part of the training on personal safety and social responsibility in accordance with Section A-VI/1-4. This requirement is included in the training for obtaining the specific authorization “basic shipboard competency.”
1. Purpose of the amendments
The purpose of the new requirement is to prevent and respond to violence and harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and sexual assault, in the maritime sector. The aim of the amendments is to strengthen the safety culture on ships and ensure a safe and respectful working environment.
2. Entry into force
The amendments to the STCW Code will enter into force internationally on January 1, 2026. From that date forward, the new competency requirements must be incorporated into training programs for obtaining the specific certificate “basic shipboard service.”
3. Validity of Existing Certificates
The training module on personal safety and social responsibility remains valid until further notice and does not need to be renewed every five years.
This is an exception compared to parts of the basic training that must be periodically renewed:
- personal survival techniques (A-VI/1-1),
- fire prevention and firefighting (A-VI/1-2).
4. Impact on refresher courses
The amendment to the STCW Code does not apply to refresher courses and does not require additional training for individuals who have already obtained the specific certificate “basic shipboard competency.”
Nevertheless, the Slovenian Maritime Administration has recommended to seafarer training providers authorized to conduct training for the “basic shipboard competency” certificate to also include the new content in refresher courses for basic training, as this contributes to:
- improving the safety culture on board,
- strengthening a safe working environment,
- greater awareness and the prevention of violence and harassment.