MLC Amendments to enter into force in December 2024

The International Labour Organization (ILO) will introduce important changes to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) on December 23, 2024. These changes, first announced during the 110th International Labour Conference on June 6, 2022, will give more protection to seafarers working on ships.

The updated rules focus on improving working conditions, safety, and rights for seafarers. They will also help countries manage issues like abandoned crew members or deaths at sea. Here’s what these new rules will bring:

Key Changes to Support Seafarers

1. Clear Information About Financial Protection:
   Seafarers must be informed about their rights before they join a ship. This includes knowing what kind of financial help will be available if their employer fails to pay them or meet other promises.
2. Faster Repatriation for Abandoned Seafarers:
   If a crew member is abandoned in a foreign country, the new rules ensure they can return home quickly. It also guarantees the proper handling and return of the bodies of crew members who pass away on duty. Countries must record these incidents and report them yearly to the ILO.
3. Access to Food, Water, and Medical Help:
   Seafarers will receive enough healthy food and drinking water without extra cost. For serious injuries or illnesses that cannot be treated on the ship, they must be taken to medical facilities on land without delay.
4. Personal Protective Equipment and Social Facilities:
   Ships must provide protective equipment that fits each crew member properly. In addition, ships and ports should offer social spaces, including affordable Internet access, to improve the crew’s quality of life during their time at sea.
5. Financial Guarantees from Shipowners:
   Shipowners will need to provide financial guarantees, as stated under Rules 2.5 and 4.2 of the MLC, 2006, to cover the costs of repatriation and compensation. If the shipowner and the registered owner are different, the responsibility still falls on the registered owner to ensure these guarantees are in place.

Training seafarers for a decarbonized future

About the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping

Founded in 1913, the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) is a well-known organization that ensures safety and environmental standards for marine transportation. RS provides many services, including reviewing technical documents, inspecting ships, and certifying companies to meet global standards.

RS offers even more than standard certification. Its concept, called “More than class,” allows it to expand services like engineering consulting, technical documentation development, and warranty surveys. RS also inspects all types of containers, including those used for dangerous goods and offshore operations.

The organization plays a key role in ensuring the safe transport of goods by offering certification services for dangerous and bulk cargoes. It also works to make sure that ships and shipping companies meet international laws.

Why These Changes Matter

These new rules are important because they improve the safety, well-being, and dignity of seafarers. With better working conditions and faster support during emergencies, the new laws ensure that seafarers get the care and respect they deserve.

Countries and shipowners must now prepare to follow these new rules to stay in compliance with the MLC, 2006. The changes are expected to improve life for seafarers worldwide, making sure that those who work at sea are treated fairly and have access to basic needs like food, medical care, and communication.