The 2022 amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) are set to come into force on 23 December 2024, introducing key updates that captains must address to ensure compliance. These changes are aimed at improving working and living conditions for seafarers while promoting safety and well-being onboard. Here’s what captains need to focus on:
1. Internet Access Onboard
Ensure the vessel has reliable internet access for crew members, where reasonably practicable.
Monitor internet charges to confirm they remain reasonable and affordable.
Collaborate with port agents to confirm internet access is also available in ports and anchorages.
2. Financial Security and Abandonment Protections
Verify that the shipowner has adequate financial security arrangements in place to cover:
Repatriation costs.
Compensation for unpaid wages and essential needs if seafarers are abandoned.
Keep crew informed of their financial protection rights and procedures.
3. Food and Water Standards
Conduct regular inspections of food supplies to ensure they meet standards for:
Quantity, quality, and nutritional value.
Variety and hygiene.
Ensure free access to good-quality drinking water is available at all times.
Work with the chef and provisioning agents to maintain compliance with balanced meal requirements.
4. Medical Care Protocols
Establish clear procedures for disembarking crew who require urgent medical attention ashore.
Maintain communication with port agents to secure access to medical facilities for serious injuries, illnesses, or mental health crises.
Ensure dignified repatriation arrangements are in place for deceased seafarers, including the handling of bodies or ashes.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Confirm that appropriately sized PPE is available for all crew, especially as more women join the industry.
Regularly inspect PPE inventory to ensure it meets current safety standards and remains in good condition.
6. Reporting Seafarer Deaths
Ensure all seafarer deaths are documented onboard.
Report deaths annually to the International Labour Organization (ILO), as required.
Maintain accurate records to meet transparency obligations.
How Captains Can Prepare
Audit Current Systems: Review onboard policies and procedures to identify gaps in compliance with the amendments.
Crew Communication: Conduct regular meetings to educate the crew on their rights, new protocols, and available resources.
Collaborate with Shipowners: Work closely with the owner or management company to update financial security arrangements and ensure proper documentation is in place.
Check Supplies: Regularly inspect provisions, drinking water systems, PPE inventory, and medical supplies to ensure compliance.
Update Training: Provide training for the crew on the use of internet systems, safety equipment, and medical protocols.
These amendments place new responsibilities on captains to uphold seafarers’ rights and welfare. By addressing these updates proactively, captains can foster a safer, more supportive work environment while ensuring their vessel remains compliant with international standards.
Comments