The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC-2006), which took effect on August 20, 2013, mandates that all vessels of 500 Gross Tonnage (GT) or above operating internationally must possess a Maritime Labour Certificate and a Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC). This regulatory framework aims to enhance the welfare and safety of seafarers, presenting a comprehensive approach to ensuring that the working conditions on ships meet established standards.
Preparation for the MLC-2006 survey is essential, especially for crews encountering it for the first time. Key aspects to consider before a surveyor’s inspection include the following:
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DMLC Documentation: Both parts of the DMLC, signed by the designated person ashore, must be onboard. Part 1 highlights inspection topics and relevant legislation, while Part 2 outlines the shipowner’s compliance measures. These documents should be prominently displayed for the crew’s access.
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Crew Complaint Procedures: Establish and maintain a transparent complaint procedure for seafarers. This should include records of complaints, addresses of relevant authorities, and ensure that seafarers can bring forth issues to the master or external agencies.
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Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEA): A signed SEA, aligned with MLC-2006 requirements, should be available for every crew member. This includes wage breakdowns, deductions, and terms regarding contract extensions.
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Collective Bargaining Agreements: Such agreements, usually established between the shipowner and a seafarers’ union, must be present on board, detailing terms related to pay and working conditions.
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Rest Hours Records: Proper documentation of seafarers’ rest hours, in accordance with flag state regulations, is crucial. Seafarers should typically have a minimum of 10 hours of rest daily, with specific provisions for younger crew members.
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Wage Records: Accurate records reflecting monthly payroll, including wage breakdowns and deductions, should be readily available.
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Mess Committee Records: Maintaining documentation of regular meetings regarding food quality and crew suggestions is a stipulation under MLC-2006.
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Qualifications of Catering Staff: Ensure that cooks and catering personnel possess valid certifications from recognized institutions.
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Crew Qualifications: All crew must have valid documentation pertaining to their qualifications and training, as per the STCW standards.
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Medical Certificates: Seafarers must possess valid medical certifications that meet international health standards.
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Safe Manning Certificates: The ship must conform to the safe manning certificate issued by the flag state, and this document should be available for the surveyor.
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Recruitment and Placement Certificates: Documentation detailing agreements with recruitment agencies must comply with MLC-2006 guidelines.
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Crew Interviews: Crew members will be directly interviewed during inspections to gauge their satisfaction regarding conditions onboard, demonstrating knowledge about their rights and responsibilities.
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Housekeeping Standards: Maintaining cleanliness in accommodations, galleys, and public areas is crucial for passing the inspection.
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Important Certificates: Ensure that all essential certificates, including those related to safety and health, are accessible for auditor review.
Preparing for an MLC-2006 survey involves rigorous attention to detail and continuous compliance with applicable regulations. Adhering to these guidelines not only enhances the working conditions for seafarers but also promotes the broader objectives of safety and welfare within the maritime industry.
