Yacht Crew - New STCW ISPS Minimum Security Training Requirements Enforceable 1st January, 2014

Yacht owners, managers and captains should be aware that with effect from the 1st January, 2014 it is necessary for all yacht crew engaged or employed in any capacity on board a yacht to which the ISPS code applies to hold certain levels of mandatory security training and certification depending on their onboard role.

This follows the Manila Amendments (2010) to the Standards of Training, Certification Watch-keeping (STCW) Convention and Code having come into force for all seafarers on 1st January 2012. Port State Control Officers were however requested by IMO not to enforce this regulation until 1st January 2014 provided that the vessel otherwise complied with the ISPS Code.

The ISPS code applies to any commercially operated yacht over 500 GT engaged on international voyages.

There are 2 new levels of mandatory security training and certification required depending on the role of the crewmember.

• Proficiency in Security Awareness

All yacht crew who do not have specific security-related duties on board are required to hold a Proficiency in Security Awareness Certificate (PSA) and will need to take an approved course approximately 4 hours in length.

• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties

All yacht crew with designated security duties within the ship security plan will be required to hold a certificate of Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) and will need to take an approved course approximately 10 hours in length.

Oceanskies is working with MAST Yacht Security (www.mast-yachtsecurity.com) who are a leading provider of maritime security services who can provide the necessary training courses in addition to a full range of yacht security solutions for yachts of all sizes.

Please do not hesitate to contact Adrian Ogier here at Oceanskies for further information.

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