Lloyd’s Register has outlined key outcomes from the recent IMO HTW 11 Sub-Committee meeting. This session focused on some critical issues, reports Lloyd’s Register.
Significant Outcomes
According to LR, some of the significant outcomes from HTW 11 include:
- Finalization of interim generic guidelines for the training of seafarers using alternative fuels and new technology.
- Commencement of the development of interim guidelines for seafarers using methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel.
- Continued progress in the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention. Stage 1 of the road map, the review stage (gap analysis), was completed.
- Development of a work plan for Stage 2 of the STCW Convention review.
Comprehensive Review
The HTW continued its discussion on the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention, which is a two-stage process:
- Stage 1: Review phase, involving a gap analysis to identify areas for improvement.
- Stage 2: Revision phase, proposing and agreeing on amendments to address the identified gaps.
HTW emphasized that the identification of a gap does not automatically necessitate the introduction of a new requirement.
Concerns were raised regarding the cumulative impact of additional training requirements on seafarers and maritime education and training institutions. It was agreed that the cumulative impact would be carefully considered at each stage of the roadmap.
This session finalized the review phase, identifying over 500 gaps that require further consideration during the revision phase. Some of the key gaps identified include:
- Inconsistency in the term “endorsement”: This term can refer to both the issuance of certificates (within the same administration) and their recognition (between different administrations), leading to potential confusion.
- Limited scope of PSC inspections: While a lack of seafarer competency falls within the scope of PSC inspections, a lack of familiarization does not.
- Inconsistency in the use of the term “documentary proof” throughout the STCW Convention and Code.
- The need to consider a senior electro-technical officer grade to address potential technological advancements associated with the energy transition.
Interim Guidelines
The development of generic and fuel/technology-specific requirements will proceed concurrently, taking into account the unique characteristics of each fuel or technology.
The types of fuels/energy sources for which guidelines will be developed in the future will be determined by the work of the Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC) subcommittee.
A priority list for developing seafarer training guidelines for specific fuels/energy sources was agreed upon, as follows:
- Methyl/ethyl alcohols
- Ammonia
- Hydrogen fuel cell-powered ships
- LPG
- Hydrogen
- Battery-powered ships
Building upon STCW.7/Circ.23 Interim guidance on training for seafarers on ships using gases or other low-flashpoint fuels, the generic interim guidelines were finalized during this session.
It was also agreed that the structure of the fuel-specific interim guidelines will be unique to each fuel or technology. Each set will include specific Knowledge, Understanding, and Proficiency (KUP) tables for the respective fuel or technology and will be issued as an STCW.7 circular.
Role Of Human Element
A proposal was submitted that focused on the impact of autonomous technologies on the skills and competencies that seafarers will require in the future.
Key needs identified for seafarers include:
- Increased knowledge of communications and information technology for both shore-based and ship-based personnel.
- Understanding of technology associated with Marine Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), including their possibilities and limitations.
MSC 108 had previously agreed to develop high-level training provisions for the MASS Code. The HTW acknowledged that competency KUPs for MASS can be developed following the finalization of the MASS Code. Since the MASS Code is still under development, this aspect will be considered at a later stage.
A discussion regarding the possibility of having a sole watchkeeper on MASS at night during trials was also held.
The HTW will advise the MSC that STCW regulation 1/13 (conduct of trials) applies to MASS trials. This will enable the MSC to determine whether a sole watchkeeper at night is permissible during such trials.
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Source: Lloyd’s Register
