The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC-2006), which came into force on August 20, 2013, is crucial for ensuring the welfare and safety of seafarers. It mandates that all ships of 500 Gross Tonnage (GT) or more operating internationally must possess a Maritime Labour Certificate and a Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC). This summary provides essential guidelines for ship staff preparing for their first MLC inspection.
Key Preparation Points for MLC Survey
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Verify DMLC Documentation: Ensure that both parts of the DMLC are aboard and signed by the Designated Person Ashore. DMLC-Part 1 outlines inspection topics and relevant legislation while DMLC-Part 2 details the compliance measures taken by the shipowner.
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Onboard Complaint Procedure: Maintain a formal procedure for crew complaints and display it prominently. The crew should know they can lodge complaints directly to the master or relevant authorities.
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Seafarer Employment Agreement (SEA): Each crew member must receive a signed copy of their SEA, which should comply with MLC guidelines, detailing wages, any deductions, and the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
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Collective Bargaining Agreement: Retain a copy of the CBA, which outlines employment terms, including pay and working hours.
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Rest Hours Documentation: It’s mandatory to maintain accurate records of crew rest periods, ensuring a minimum of 10 hours rest per day and 77 hours per week.
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Wage Records: Monthly wage bills and slips should be accurately documented and readily available for inspection, including salary breakdowns.
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Mess Committee Records: Establish a mess committee responsible for food quality and maintain records of meetings.
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Cook Qualifications: Ensure that cooks onboard have valid qualifications from recognized institutions, along with necessary certificates.
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Crew Documentation: All crew members must have their qualifications and documents, including STCW certificates, available for review.
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Valid Medical Certificates: Each crew member must possess a valid medical certificate that meets international standards, ensuring it does not expire during the voyage.
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Safe Manning Certificate: Ensure that the vessel complies with its safe manning certificate and that this document is available for the MLC surveyor.
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Recruitment and Placement Service Certificate: A copy of the agreement with the recruitment agency must be onboard, proving compliance with MLC standards.
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Prepare for Crew Interviews: Crew members will be interviewed about their working conditions, satisfaction with wages, and knowledge of policies. Prior guidance can help them prepare effectively.
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Housekeeping Standards: Ensure cleanliness in all areas of the vessel, including accommodations and galley, as inspectors will assess hygiene.
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Documentation Availability: Keep all important certificates accessible for inspection, including safety and medical certificates, registry documents, and safety records.
Conclusion
While this overview provides essential points for ensuring compliance with the MLC-2006, it is not exhaustive. Being proactive in preparing for inspections can help maintain high safety and welfare standards for seafarers on board. Compliance not only fulfills legal requirements but fosters a supportive environment that is crucial for the maritime industry’s integrity.
