An ITF Guide For Seafarers To The ILO Maritime Labour Convention, 2006

THE MARITIME LABOUR CONVENTION
2006
An ITF Guide for Seafarers to the ILO

Maritime Labour Convention, 2006
Incorporating amendments in 2014 and 2016

The ITF (International Transport Workers’ Federation) is a global federation
representing nearly five million transport workers worldwide. Currently around
700 transport unions from 150 countries are affiliated to the ITF.
Cover Photo: Philip Apuang

The Maritime Labour Convention 2006
An ITF Guide for Seafarers to the ILO

Maritime Labour Convention, 2006
Incorporating amendments in 2014 and 2016
Published by:
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF)

49-60 Borough Road, London SE1 1DR, UK
Contents:
Terms & abbreviations i
1. About the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC) 1

Why was the Maritime Labour Convention adopted?
How and when did the MLC come into force?
Who is covered under the MLC? What vessels? Which seafarers?
Fundamental rights, workers’ rights and the MLC
Seafarers’ rights
How it works
Structure of the MLC
Substantial equivalence
Consultation with shipowners’ and seafarers’ organisations
MLC amendments in 2014 and 2016
2. Your rights under the MLC (Titles 1 - 4) 11

Title 1: Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship 11
Minimum age
Medical certificate
Training and qualifications
Recruitment and placement
How to tell if a manning agent or recruitment company is reliable
Title 2: Conditions of employment 16

Seafarers’ employment agreements
What must be in your employment agreement?
Wages
Overtime
Sending money home
Your entitlements
Hours of work and hours of rest
Entitlement to leave
Repatriation
Seafarer compensation for the ship’s loss or foundering
Manning levels
Career and skill development and opportunities for seafarers’ employment
Title 3: Accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering 27
Accommodation and recreational facilities
Food and catering
Title 4: Health protection, medical care, welfare and social 39

security protection
Medical care on board ships and ashore
On-board medical facilities
Shipowners’ liability
Health and safety protection and accident prevention
Young seafarers
Access to shore-based welfare facilities
Consulates
Social security
What is meant by ‘Social Security’?
3. Safeguarding your rights (Title 5) 51

Title 5: Compliance and enforcement 51
Flag State responsibilities
Declaration of maritime labour compliance
Maritime labour certificate
Certificates and related documents
When is a certificate not valid?
Inspection and enforcement
On-board complaints procedures
Maritime casualties
Port State responsibilities
Inspections in port
Onshore seafarer complaint-handling procedures
Labour-supplying responsibilities
4. List of conventions incorporated into the MLC 61
5. MLC Index – where to find what you’re looking for 63

Terms and abbreviations
Abandonment – failure by the shipowner to cover costs of repatriation or to
provide necessary maintenance and support , or unilateral severance of ties
with the seafarers including failure to pay wages for at least 2 months
CBA – collective bargaining agreement – an agreement on terms and

conditions of work negotiated by a union on behalf of a group of workers
Competent authority – the minister, government department or other

authority with the power to issue and enforce regulations or other legal
instructions regarding a provision of the Convention
Contractual claim – any claim relating to seafarers’ death or long-term

disability due to occupational injury illness or hazard as set out in national
laws, CBAs or SEAs
DMLC – Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance – a document attached to

a Maritime Labour Certificate, which must be carried on board ships that are
MLC certified
GT – gross tonnage
ICS – International Chamber of Shipping
ILO – International Labour Organization, founded in 1919 to promote social

justice and contribute to ‘universal and lasting peace’. The ILO includes
representatives of governments, employers’ and workers’ organisations
(in what is referred to as a ‘tripartite’ process). Over the years it has issued a
large number of international labour conventions and recommendations on
freedom of association, employment, social policy, conditions of work, social
security, industrial relations and labour administration, and child labour,
among others.
IMO – International Maritime Organization, established in 1948 and held its

first meeting in 1959. Its main task is to develop and maintain a
comprehensive regulatory framework for shipping, dealing with safety,
environmental concerns, legal matters, technical co-operation, maritime
security and shipping efficiency. Where the focus of the ILO is on workers,
that of the IMO is primarily on technical matters relating to ships.
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MARPOL – International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from
Ships, 1973 (and its protocols)
MLC – Maritime Labour Convention, 2006
No more favourable treatment – the concept which prevents ships flying flags
of States that haven’t signed the Convention from having an unfair advantage
over ships flying the flag of States that have
Recognised organisation (RO) – an organization (such as a classification

society) to which the competent authority has delegated certain tasks.
SEA – Seafarers’ Employment Agreement – includes a contract of

employment, articles of agreement and provisions in a CBA
Seafarers’ rights – your employment and social rights, including the right to a
safe and secure workplace, the right to fair terms of employment, the right to
decent living and working conditions and the right to health protection,
medical care, welfare measures and other forms of social protection
SOLAS – International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974
STCW – International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and

Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (amended 1995 and 2010)
Substantial equivalence – any law, regulation, collective agreement or other

measure used by a State to implement the requirements of the Convention.
The approach may be different from that set in the Convention so long as the
goals and purpose are fulfilled.
WHO – World Health Organization, the United Nations body with the
responsibility for co-ordinating international standards and guidance
relating to health. WHO produces the International Medical Guide for Ships,
which was first published in 1967.
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1. About the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006
Why was the Maritime Labour Convention adopted?
It is widely agreed that, given the global nature of the shipping industry,
seafarers need special protection, especially since you can be exempted
from national labour laws.
The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC), otherwise known as the

Seafarers’ Bill of Rights, incorporates and builds on sixty eight existing
About the Maritime Labour Convention

maritime labour conventions and recommendations, as well as more general
fundamental principles, to ensure decent working and living conditions for all
seafarers. A list of these conventions is included for reference at the end of this
book. Some important conventions not included are those relating to
seafarers’ identity documents (ILO 108 and 185) and pensions (ILO 71).
The MLC is designed to sit alongside regulation such as the International

Maritime Organization (IMO) standards on ship safety, security and quality ship
management (such as SOLAS, STCW and MARPOL). Where they deal more with
the vessel and its operation, the MLC deals more with your rights as a seafarer.
It should be remembered that the MLC sets out minimum requirements; many
flag States that ratify the Convention may have higher standards. States may
not reduce existing rights when they ratify a new convention.
Photo: Danny Cornelissen
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How and when did the MLC come into force?
The MLC was adopted in February 2006 with a ratification requirement of a

minimum of 30 countries representing at least one third of the world fleet in
gross tonnage. Twelve months after meeting this requirement, the Convention
came into force in August 2013.
There are some key features of the MLC that should make the Convention
relatively easy for governments to ratify and should enable its provisions to
be put into practice and fairly enforced.
Some parts of the Convention are compulsory, other parts take the form of
guidelines. The intention is to make sure that seafarers are protected without
being too specific as to how it is done. This is to encourage the maximum
number of States to ratify the Convention. The MLC provides a way of
enforcing the standards through a system of certification and inspection by
flag State and port State authorities. A key to enforcement will lie in the
ability to detain vessels if they are in breach of the Convention.
Who is covered under the MLC?
What vessels?
All ships are covered except:
● ships navigating exclusively in inland waters, close to the coast,

in sheltered waters or areas where port regulations apply
● fishing vessels
● ships of traditional build, such as dhows or junks
● warships and naval auxiliaries
Ships below 200 GT, that are not carrying out international voyages, can be
excluded by the flag State from some of the requirements if the seafarers
rights concerned are already covered by national laws, collective agreements,
or other measures.
Which seafarers?
Any person who is employed, engaged or working in any capacity on board a

ship to which the Convention applies. This includes riding gangs and hotel
staff on cruise ships – anyone working on board.
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If there is any doubt as to whether a category of ship or person is covered by
the Convention, the situation has to be clarified between the State authorities
in consultation with the shipowner and seafarer organisations concerned.
Fundamental rights, workers’ rights and the MLC
The MLC requires governments to make sure that their laws and regulations
respect certain fundamental rights relating to work.
These are:

● The right to freedom of association – your right to join a trade union
of your choice
● Effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining – the right
of your union to negotiate a CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement)
on your behalf
● Elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour – your right
to work of your own free will and to be paid for that work
● Effective abolition of child labour
● Elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation –
your right to be treated in the same way as your fellow seafarers doing
the same work regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender, or
political views
In brief, you have a right to a safe and secure workplace, where safety
standards are complied with, where you have fair terms of employment,
decent living and working conditions, including social protection such as
access to medical care, health protection and welfare.
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Seafarers’ rights
The rights referred to above are expanded in the requirements of the MLC
under four headings:
● Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship

● Conditions of employment
● Accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering
● Health protection, medical care, welfare and social security protection
Under these headings there are more details of the obligations of States
and shipowners to ensure that you have the same sort of protections
afforded to people working ashore, bearing in mind the particular
circumstances of life working at sea. This is broadly referred to as seafarers’
rights. If your rights are not respected there are processes to follow for
making complaints. If the problems are serious and repeated or a hazard to
your health, safety or security, this can result in the detention of the ship.
How it works
The minimum rights that you have under this Convention are put into place
either through national laws, regulations, CBAs or simply through good
practice. To make sure they are actually carried out, there is a strong
enforcement regime backed by a system of inspection and certification.
Every ship of 500 GT or above operating internationally has to have a

maritime labour certificate and a declaration of maritime labour
compliance, both issued by the flag State. Through these documents, the
flag State provides details of how the ship complies with the requirements
in the Convention. These details form the basis of the inspection regime in
that the Port State authorities can check against them for compliance. In
enforcing compliance with the MLC, the authorities have to make sure that
ships flying the flag of a State that hasn’t ratified the Convention don’t get
any advantages over those flying a flag that has. This is referred to as the
no more favourable treatment clause.
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Structure of the MLC
The MLC starts with a Preamble setting out the context in which the
Convention was adopted. Then come the Articles, covering general
obligations for the States ratifying the Convention, the fundamental rights
and principles and how the Convention works. After that, come the
Regulations and the Code. This part is divided into five parts:
● Title 1: Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship

● Title 2: Conditions of employment
Title 3: Accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering

●
● Title 4: Health protection, medical care, welfare and social
security protection
● Title 5: Compliance and enforcement
In each part there are Regulations, Standards and Guidelines. The Regulations
are general, non-negotiable points of principle. The Standards are referred to as
Part A, and the Guidelines are called Part B. Part A is mandatory, Part B contains
recommendations that set out in more detail how Part A can be put into practice,
and has to be given due consideration. Together Part A (the standards) and Part
B (the guidelines) are called The Code.
Substantial equivalence
The MLC allows for a certain amount of flexibility as to how it is put into practice.
If a flag State can prove that its approach is substantially equivalent to the MLC’s
requirement, ie, it covers the basic principles but in a different way from that set
out in the MLC, this can be acceptable for the Part A requirements in Titles 1 to 4.
For Title 5 there can be no substantial equivalence, the measures for compliance
and enforcement must be followed according to the Convention.
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Consultation with seafarers’ and shipowners’ organisations
Where there is any doubt over how compliance is to be achieved, the

Convention requires consultation with representatives of seafarers and
shipowners.
Photo: Albert Veloria

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Changes to the MLC in 2014 and 2016
2014 Amendments to Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006
Amendments to the MLC have been adopted by the ILO in 2014 for the
abandonment of seafarers and financial security requirements.
The amendments aim to give protection if you are abandoned and provide
financial security and compensation to you and your family in the unfortunate
case of your death or long-term disability.

The amendments came into force in January 2017.
So what does the new regulation mean for you?
It means that shipowners must have a form of financial security, which may be
insurance, directly accessible to crews, with sufficient funds to provide timely
financial assistance in the event of abandonment. It means no more seafarers
left for months without food, wages and unable to get home.
All ships whose flag states have ratified the MLC (at the time of writing
covering 91% of global tonnage) must have copies of the financial security
certification ‘posted in a conspicuous place’ on board in English.
If you think that you may be in danger of abandonment, don’t wait too long
to make a complaint and contact the insurer. The financial security can be
triggered by the following indicators of abandonment:
‘If the shipowner:
a) fails to cover the cost of the seafarer’s repatriation; or

b) has left the seafarer without the necessary maintenance and support; or
c) has otherwise unilaterally severed their ties with the seafarer,
including failure to pay contractual wages for a period of at least
two months’
The policy will cover you for up to 4 months, outstanding wages and other
entitlements as per your employment agreement or CBA. That’s why it’s
important not to leave it too late. If you wait 6 months to apply, you’ll only
get 4 months backpay.
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The financial security must also cover all reasonable expenses, including
repatriation costs, adequate food, clothing where necessary, accommodation,
drinking water, essential fuel for survival on board and any necessary medical
care. It will be applicable from the moment of abandonment to the time of
arrival back home.
Repatriation costs mean ‘appropriate and expeditious’ travel – normally by

air, and including all reasonable costs for the journey such as food,
accommodation and transport of personal effects.
The International Group of P&I clubs, who cover around 90% of global ocean-going
tonnage, have committed to provide 24-hour emergency helplines which you

will find in the certificates on board or on line – make sure you contact them
as soon as you notice that all is not well. Report it to the ITF too!
What do the amendments actually include?
Some major amendments have been applied to the Code dealing with
repatriation of seafarers as well for the shipowner’s liability.
2.5 Repatriation
Concerning the repatriation of seafarers the following amendments have

been implemented:
● A facility for you to have direct access to claim assistance quickly,

and directly, from the financial security provider.
● Food, accommodation, medical costs, wages (up to 4 months
outstanding) and other expenses reasonably incurred associated
with the abandonment, to be included in the financial security cover.
● An improved description of abandonment.
● A new Appendix A2-I has been implemented before Appendix A5-I.
This includes the format and content of the certificate of financial
security in relation to abandonment which is to be provided by the
financial security provider.
States must, after consultation with organisations representing shipowners

and seafarers, ensure that a financial security system is in place which covers
the following:
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Repatriation and related costs (Regulation 2.5)
● up to four months’ wages and entitlements

● repatriation costs
● essential needs such as food, accommodation and medical care
Regulation 4.2 for shipowner’s liability
With regards to shipowner’s liability the amendments contain:
● An obligation on the financial security provider to give prior

notification to the flag state and seafarers if financial security is
to be cancelled or not renewed.
● An obligation on the financial security provider to notify the flag state
and seafarer of future cancellation, upon cancellation and upon
non-renewal of the financial security.
● An obligation that evidence of financial security is to be posted in
crew accommodation.
● An extension of the financial security to cover contractual claims.
● A new Appendix A4-I has been inserted after Appendix A2-I which
provides the format and content of the certificate of financial
security in relation to death and long-term disability.
Shipowners' liability for contractual payments for death or long-term

disability due to an occupational injury, illness or hazard to be set out in the
employment agreement or collective bargaining agreement (Regulation 4.2):
● Contractual compensation must be paid in full and without delay

● If the extent of disability is unclear, an interim payment must be made
● Payment is without prejudice to other rights
● There must be no pressure to accept less than the contractual amount
● The seafarer shall have a right of direct action
● Must remain in force throughout the period of insurance unless
brought to an end by at least 30 days' notice to the flag state
The security must provide direct access and expedited financial assistance.
b) 4.2 Death and Long Term Disability
● An obligation on the financial security provider to give prior

notification to the flag state and seafarers if financial security is to
be cancelled or not renewed.
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● An obligation on the financial security provider to notify the flag
state and seafarer of future cancellation, upon cancellation and
upon non-renewal of the financial security.
● An obligation that evidence of financial security be posted in crew
accommodation.
● An extension of the financial security to cover contractual claims.
● The format and content of the certificate of financial security in
relation to death and long-term disability.
In case of doubt contact your union!

Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC): Proposed amendments 2016
The special tripartite committee on the MLC met at the ILO in February to look
at amendments to the MLC. Amendments agreed at the meeting included an
amendment highlighting the importance of health and safety onboard and
proposing the inclusion of the new ITF/ICS guidelines on eliminating bullying
and harassment at sea.
The new amendment to the convention will go to the ILO International Labour
Conference and is expected to enter into force in late 2018.
The meeting also agreed to establish a working group to draft proposals for a
future amendment to the MLC to protect seafarers' wages if they are held
captive as a result of piracy or armed robbery.
The working group is also to recommend improvements to the process for

preparing proposals for future amendments to the Code of the MLC, 2006.
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2. Your Rights under the Maritime Labour
Convention, 2006
TITLE 1: Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship
● Minimum age to work on a ship
Your Rights under the Maritime Labour Convention

● Medical certification for duties on board
● Training and qualifications
● Recruitment and placement
Minimum age
To ensure that no under-age persons work on a ship
If you are under the age of 16 you cannot be employed to work on a ship.
If you are under the age of 18 you cannot carry out ‘night work’ on board a
ship. The term ‘night’ depends on national law and practice, but it must be a
period of at least nine hours, starting no later than midnight and ending no
earlier than 5am.
Exceptions can be made but only for specific, approved training programmes
where duties must be performed at night.
If you are under the age of 18 you cannot be employed in work that would be
likely to jeopardise your health and safety, and special attention should be
given to the regulation of your working and living conditions.
Regulation 1.1
1. No person below the minimum age shall be employed or engaged or

work on a ship.
2. The minimum age at the time of the initial entry into force of this
Convention is 16 years.
3. A higher minimum age shall be required in the circumstances set out
in the Code.
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Medical certificate
To ensure that all seafarers are medically fit to perform their duties at sea
You cannot work on board a ship unless you are certified medically fit for
your duties.
Medical certificates must be issued by a qualified, independent medical

practitioner. In the event of a certificate being refused or restricted, you can seek
a second opinion from another qualified, independent practitioner or referee.
Certificates must meet with accepted international standards, such as those

issued to comply with the requirements of the International Convention on
Standards of Training and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). It is recommended
that they follow the ILO/WHO Guidelines for Conducting Pre-sea and Periodic
Medical Fitness Examinations for Seafarers. They must cover hearing, sight and
colour vision (if it affects your work).
They must confirm that you are not suffering from any condition that would:
a) be made worse by work at sea

a) make you unable to perform your job
a) make you a danger to others
Medical certificates are valid for a period of 2 years (1 year for seafarers under
the age of 18), colour vision certificates are valid for 6 years. If you have a recently
expired certificate, in urgent cases the competent authority may allow you to
work until the next port of call as long as this does not exceed a period of 3
months. For international voyages medical certificates must be in English.
If you are working on a ship that is covered by this Convention, but not
trading in international waters, the medical certification requirements
may be less strict.
Your company may have its own policy requiring more frequent
medical checks.
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Regulation 1.2
1. Seafarers shall not work on a ship unless they are certified as medically
fit to perform their duties.
2. Exceptions can only be permitted as prescribed in the Code.
Training and qualifications

To ensure that seafarers are trained or qualified to carry out their duties on
board ship
You must have completed the training necessary to carry out your duties on
board (as per IMO STCW). In addition you must have completed training for
personal safety on board.
Regulation 1.3
1. Seafarers shall not work on a ship unless they are trained or certified
as competent or otherwise qualified to perform their duties.
2. Seafarers shall not be permitted to work on a ship unless they have
successfully completed training for personal safety on board ship.
3. Training and certification in accordance with the mandatory instruments
adopted by the International Maritime Organization shall be considered
as meeting the requirements of paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Regulation.
4. Any Member which, at the time of its ratification of this Convention, was
bound by the Certification of Able Seamen Convention, 1946 (No.74),
shall continue to carry out the obligations under that Convention unless
and until mandatory provisions covering its subject matter have been
adopted by the International Maritime Organization and entered into
force, or until five years have elapsed since the entry into force of this
Convention in accordance with paragraph 3 of Article VIII, whichever
date is earlier.
Recruitment and placement
To ensure that seafarers have access to an efficient and well-regulated

seafarer recruitment and placement system
Crewing agencies offering recruitment services must not charge you for
finding you work. The only costs that can be charged to you are those for
obtaining your national statutory medical certificate, your national seafarers’
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book, your passport or similar personal travel documents. The cost of visas
must be paid for by the shipowner.
All private crewing agencies must be regulated and provide an efficient,

adequate and accountable system that protects and promotes your
employment rights.
The creation of blacklists that could prevent qualified seafarers from finding
work is forbidden.
Shipowners must use agencies that comply with these minimum requirements.
Depending on which country you come from, your union may offer recruitment
services under the terms of a collective bargaining agreement. The flag State
must make sure that if seafarers are recruited from a crewing agency in a country
that has not ratified the Convention, the shipowner recruiting them must ensure
that the agency meets with the MLC’s standards.
Where a manning agency is publicly operated, it must also be run in an

orderly way that promotes your employment rights.
There has to be a process in place to enable you to make a complaint if a

manning agency is not run properly and is in breach of the requirements of
this convention. Depending on the situation you may need to complain to the
authorities of your own country (for example for Filipino seafarers this could be
the POEA – Philippines Overseas Employment Agency), those of the flag State
or those of a port State. You can also contact your union or the ITF for advice.
This Convention covers the regulation of recruitment through public

and private agencies and through union hiring halls. It is also possible
to beemployed directly by a shipowner.
How to tell if a private crewing agent or recruitment company is reliable?
Crewing agencies must:
● Keep an up-to-date register of all their seafarer placements

● Keep up-to-date lists of ships and company contact details where
their seafarers are placed
● Inform you of your rights and duties under an employment agreement
and give you enough time to examine it before you sign up
● Give you a copy of the employment agreement
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● Make sure their agreements comply with applicable national laws
and CBAs
● Check your qualifications for the job
● Make sure that the shipowners or companies they work with are
financially secure so that you don’t get stranded in a foreign port
● Have an effective complaints procedure in place
● Have an insurance system in place in case they need to compensate

you for any failure to meet their obligations under the recruitment
and placement service, or if the shipowner fails to meet their
obligations under the SEA
As a matter of good practice they should also:
● Employ staff with relevant knowledge of the maritime industry

● Respect your right to privacy and the need to protect confidentiality
● Ensure that they can respond promptly and sympathetically to
requests for information and advice from your family while you’re at
sea – at no cost to you or your family
● Keep up-to-date lists of contact details in case of emergencies
● Inform you of any relevant shipping company policies, eg. dry ship
policies where no alcohol may be consumed on board
● Check that the labour conditions on ships where they supply crew
comply with all applicable CBAs, laws and regulations
Regulation 1.4
1. All seafarers shall have access to an efficient, adequate and

accountable system for finding employment on board ship without
charge to the seafarer.
2. Seafarer recruitment and placement services operating in a Member’s
territory shall conform to the standards set out in the Code.
3. Each Member shall require, in respect of seafarers who work on ships
that fly its flag, that shipowners who use seafarer recruitment and
placement services that are based in its countries or territories in which
this Convention does not apply, ensure that those services conform to
the requirements set out in the Code.
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TITLE 2: Conditions of Employment
● Seafarers’ employment agreements

● Wages
● Hours of work and hours of rest
● Entitlement to leave
● Repatriation
● Seafarer compensation in the event of a ship’s loss or foundering

● Manning levels
● Career and skill development opportunities
Seafarers’ employment agreements
To ensure that seafarers have a fair employment agreement
You are entitled to a fair employment agreement or contract setting out the
terms and conditions of your employment. It must be signed by you and your
employer, be easy to understand and legally enforceable. On the employer’s
side, it can be signed by the shipowner, the shipowner’s representative, or
another person acting as the shipowner, such as the ship manager, agent or
bareboat charterer. The shipowner is responsible for ensuring that your rights
under the employment agreement or contract are respected even if you are
also working for another company on the ship (eg. seafarers working as hotel
staff on cruise ships).
You must receive and keep a signed original of the agreement, a copy of
which must also be available on board. Make sure you fully understand your
rights and responsibilities. You have the right to seek advice before you sign.
Applicable CBAs are normally incorporated in the employment agreement.
All information on the terms and conditions of employment, including the

CBA, must be freely accessible to everyone on board and available for
inspection in port. If your employment agreement or CBA is not in English, for
ships operating in international waters, an English language version must be
available on board.
In addition to the employment agreement, you must receive a record of your

employment or discharge book – this will help you when seeking another job
or making a case for promotion. This record must not include reference to
performance or discipline issues it is simply a document of your service.
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What must be in your employment agreement?
● Your full name, date of birth/age and place of birth

● Shipowner’s name and address
● Place where and date when the agreement was signed
● Position on board eg. 3rd Engineer, Able Seaman, Cook
● Amount of your wages and how they are calculated

● Amount of paid annual leave
● Conditions for terminating the contract, including notice period
for agreements of indefinite length (this must not be less for the
shipowner than for the seafarer ie. you cannot be asked to give
two month’s notice if the shipowner only has to give one month)
● Expiry date – if the contract is for a fixed term you are entitled to
know when you will be discharged
● Port of destination – if the contract is for a specific voyage you should
know how long it will be after your arrival before you will be discharged
● Health and social security benefits provided by the shipowner
● Details of your entitlement to repatriation
● Reference to the CBA, if applicable
● Any other details required by national law
Regulation 2.1
1. The terms and conditions for employment of a seafarer shall be set

out or referred to in a clear written legally enforceable agreement
and shall be consistent with the standards set out in the Code.
2. Seafarers’ employment agreements shall be agreed by the seafarer
under conditions which ensure that the seafarer has an opportunity to
review and seek advice on the terms and conditions in the agreement
and freely accepts them before signing.
3. To the extent compatible with the Member’s national law and practice,
seafarers’ employment agreements shall be understood to incorporate
any applicable collective bargaining agreements.
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Wages
To ensure that seafarers are paid for their services
You have the right to be paid regularly and in full, at least monthly, and in
accordance with your employment agreement or CBA.
Your employer must provide you with a monthly account setting out payments due
and amounts paid, including wages additional payments and the rate of exchange
if the currency is different from that set out in the employment agreement.
Basic pay or wages means pay for normal hours of work, normally no more than 8
hours/day and not more than 48 hours/week. Basic pay should never be less than
the recommended minimum wage.
If you are a member of a trade union, your wage will often be negotiated between
your employer and your trade union on your behalf. The International Labour
Organization (ILO) sets a recommended minimum wage for Able Seafarers
based on a formula that takes into consideration changes in the cost of living
and exchange rates against the US dollar in a range of maritime countries. It is
used as a reference by shipowners and trade unions when agreeing wage scales.
No seafarer should be paid at a rate below the recommended ILO minimum. For
further information on the ITF interpretation of the recommended ILO minimum
see: www.itfseafarers.org
Overtime
If you are required to work more than your normal hours of work you should
get paid overtime. This should be covered by national law or your CBA and
the rate of pay should be at least one and one quarter times the basic rate. In
some agreements the basic pay and overtime is consolidated into one sum in
18
which case the same principles should apply. Overtime records should be kept by
the Captain and endorsed at least monthly by you. If you have to work on a day
that is specified a day of rest or a public holiday either by national laws or the terms
of your CBA, then you should be entitled to overtime payment or time off in lieu.
It is good practice to keep your own copy of overtime records in case

of disagreement.

Sending money home
Your employer must ensure that you are able to send all or part of your earnings
home. This could be by regular bank transfer of remittances agreed when you sign
the contract. Remittances should be sent on time directly to the person or account
nominated by you. You shouldn’t be expected to pay unreasonable charges for
such services. The exchange rate must be at the current market rate or at an
official published rate that is not unfavourable to you.
Your entitlements
● Seafarers on the same ship should be paid equal pay for equal work
without discrimination
● Seafarers’ employment agreements should be available on board
including details of rates of pay
● You should be paid in full any outstanding remuneration on
termination of engagement
● If the shipowner fails to pay any outstanding remuneration without
undue delay, contact your union representative or a representative
of the flag State or port State. There should be a system in place to
penalise owners that don’t pay their seafarers. Failure to pay wages
is a matter that is subject to ship inspection by flag States and port
States and may result in the detention of a ship
● No deductions can be made from your pay, including fees for
obtaining employment, unless expressly permitted by national
law or agreed in a CBA
● Any charges that are made, such as for services provided on board over
and above the terms of your agreement, should be fair and reasonable
● You are free to decide how to spend your wages
Regulation 2.2
1. All seafarers shall be paid for their work regularly and in full in
accordance with their employment agreements.
19
Hours of work and hours of rest
To ensure that seafarers have regulated hours of work or hours of rest
Hours of work and rest are regulated to avoid fatigue and to ensure that the
ship is operated safely.
Normal working hours are based on an eight-hour day with one day of rest
per week; how this is applied may vary according to your CBA or employment
agreement.
The flag State can decide whether to base the limits on maximum hours of
work or minimum hours of rest.
Maximum hours of work

● You must not work more than 14 hours in any 24-hour period
● You must not work more than 72 hours in any seven-day period
Minimum hours of rest

● You must have at least 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period
● You must have at least 77 hours rest in any seven-day period
The hours of rest can be divided into no more than two periods, one of which
must be at least 6 hours long.
You cannot work for more than 14 hours without taking rest.
Unfortunately most flag States use the calculation based on minimum

hours of rest, this gives the shipowner more flexibility as you can be
required to work up to 91 hours in any 7 day period.
In the event of an emergency where the safety of the ship and crew are in
danger, or to give assistance to other ships or persons in distress at sea, the
Captain can suspend the work schedule until the problem is resolved. If
normal working hours are disrupted by emergencies or unscheduled call-outs
you are entitled to an adequate compensatory rest period.
Musters and all other drills must take place with minimal disturbance to
periods of rest.
All ships have to display a table with shipboard working arrangements in the
working language of the ship and in English. It must include:
20
● Schedule of service at sea and service in port
● Maximum hours of work or minimum hours of rest required by
law or by applicable CBAs
Records must be kept of hours of work and hours of rest so that they can be
checked to ensure compliance with the regulations. You must receive an
endorsed copy of your hours or work/rest.

There are additional guidelines designed to ensure protection of young
seafarers. You should not have to work for more than eight hours a day and
40 hours per week. You should have enough time for meals, at least one hour
for the main meal of the day and 15-minute breaks after every two hours,
unless this interferes with agreed training programmes.
Regulation 2.3
1. Each Member shall ensure that the hours of work or the hours of rest for
seafarers are regulated.
2. Each Member shall establish maximum hours of work or minimum hours
of rest over given periods that are consistent with the provisions in the
Code.
Entitlement to leave
To ensure that seafarers have adequate leave
You are entitled to paid annual leave, and shore leave for the benefit of your
health and well-being.
Flag States have to determine minimum standards for annual leave, taking
into account your special needs as a seafarer. The annual leave entitlement is
calculated on the basis of 2.5 days for every calendar month of employment.
Justified absences from work, such as sickness or attendance at an approved
training course, cannot be considered annual leave. It is forbidden to deny or
buy off your entitlement to paid annual leave.
While you are on leave, all other contractual entitlements still apply;
when you have signed off, the contract ends.
21
The following should not be counted as annual leave:
● Public and customary holidays

● Time off for illness, injury or maternity
● Temporary shore leave
● Compensatory leave
You should have the right to take annual leave in your home country. You should
not be required to take leave in a place where you have no substantial connection
unless it is with your agreement. If you do have to take your leave from a different
place then you should be entitled to free transportation at the shipowner’s
expense to your place of recruitment as well as subsistence for the duration of the
journey. The travel time should not be deducted from your paid annual leave.
When you take your leave should be agreed between you and your employer.
You should be able to take all your leave at once, but sometimes it may be
divided into parts.
Regulation 2.4
1. Each Member shall require that seafarers employed on ships

that fly its flag are given paid leave under appropriate
conditions, in accordance with the provisions in the Code.
2. Seafarers shall be granted shore leave to benefit their health
and well-being and with the operational requirements of their positions.
22
Repatriation
To ensure that seafarers are able to return home
You have a right to be repatriated at no cost to yourself under the following

circumstances:

● your employment agreement expires while you are abroad
● the shipowner terminates your contract
● you terminate the contract for reasons that are justified
● you are unable to carry out your duties under the agreement for
reasons such as illness, injury, shipwreck, trading in a war zone
or if the shipowner fails to fulfil his/her legal obligations to you
● You are deemed to have been abandoned by the shipowner
The maximum period you can be expected to serve on board before being
entitled to repatriation at the shipowner’s expense is 12 months.
Shipowners are not allowed to ask you for a contribution nor can they make a
deduction from your wages towards the cost of repatriation, unless you have
seriously breached the terms of your employment agreement.
If the shipowner fails to pay for your repatriation, the flag State must take over
this responsibility. If, for any reason the flag State fails to do this, contact your
consulate or diplomatic mission. They should be able to arrange your
repatriation and claim the costs back from the flag State, who in turn can claim
against the shipowner. The port State should also help you to find a way home.
All ships flying flags of States that have signed the Convention must carry on
board and have available for seafarers a copy of the flag State’s provisions on
repatriation.
The shipowner should pay for the following costs:
● Passage to the place of repatriation, normally by air

● Accomodation and food for the duration of the journey
● Pay and allowances for the duration of the journey if specified by
CBAs or national laws
● Transportation of 30kg of your luggage
● Medical treatment where necessary to make you fit for travel
23
You should have the right to choose your preferred place of repatriation from
the following options:
● The place where you agreed to join the ship

● The place stated in a CBA
● Your country of residence
● Any other place agreed at the time of engagement
You should agree to whichever option you prefer at the time of engagement.
If you are under 18, have served at least 4 months on your first foreign-going
voyage, and find that you are not suited to a life at sea, you should be given
the opportunity of repatriation, at no expense to yourself, from the next
suitable port of call.
If the shipowner fails to cover the costs of your repatriation or you have been
left without necessary maintenance and support, or the shipowner has cut
contact with you and you haven’t been paid for two months, you are
considered abandoned.
There must be a financial security system in place that you can access directly
in this event, details of which must be clearly posted on board in English. You
or your representative has a right to receive prompt assistance on request
that covers:
● Outstanding wages and entitlements up to 4 months

● All reasonable repatriation expenses including adequate food,
accommodation, drinking water, fuel for survival on board and
necessary medical care
● Prompt repatriation normally by air including provisions for the
journey, accommodation and any reasonable expenses incurred
on the way from the vessel to your home
● Transport of personal belongings and any other costs due to the
abandonment
Regulation 2.5
1. Seafarers have a right to be repatriated at no cost to themselves in the

circumstances and under the conditions specified in the Code.
2. Each Member shall require ships that fly its flag to provide financial security
to ensure that seafarers are duly repatriated in accordance with the Code.
24
Seafarer compensation for the ship’s loss or foundering
To ensure that seafarers are compensated when a ship is lost or has

foundered
You are entitled to adequate compensation in case of injury, loss or unemployment

due to the ship’s loss or foundering. This must be paid to you by the shipowner,

and shouldn’t prevent you from asserting any other rights to claim you may have
under relevant national law. For the period that you are unemployed, you should
be paid the same amount as you would have received under your contract, but
the total may be limited to 2 months’ wages.
Regulation 2.6
1. Seafarers are entitled to adequate compensation in the case of injury,

loss or unemployment arising from the ship’s loss or foundering.
Manning levels
To ensure that seafarers work on board ships with sufficient personnel for
the safe, efficient and secure operation of the ship
You have a right to work on a safely and securely operated ship. There must be
adequate crew on board, in terms of number and qualifications, to ensure the
safety and security of the ship and all those on board under all operating conditions.
The manning levels have to take into account the need to avoid excessive hours of
work, ensure sufficient rest and limit fatigue. They also have to take into account the
requirement for seafarers working in catering and food services.
Manning levels also have to take into account the nature and conditions of
the voyage.
If you think that your vessel is operating with insufficient manning, report it to
your union or to ITF London. There should be a complaints procedure in place
to allow concerns to be raised with the flag State.
Regulation 2.7
1. Each Member shall require that all ships that fly its flag have a sufficient
number of seafarers employed on board to ensure that ships are operated
safely, efficiently and with due regard to security under all conditions, taking
into account concerns about seafarer fatigue and the particular nature and
conditions of the voyage.
25
Career and skill development and opportunities
for seafarers’ employment
To promote career and skill development and employment opportunities

for seafarers
Everyone concerned with the maritime industry has an interest in ensuring

that the sector has a competent workforce. You should have the opportunity
to strengthen your competencies, qualifications and employment
opportunities.
Regulation 2.8
1. Each Member shall have national policies to promote employment in the

maritime sector and to encourage career and skill development and greater
employment opportunities for seafarers domiciled in its territory.
Photo: Celina Diaz
26
TITLE 3: Accommodation, Recreational Facilities, Food and Catering
● Accommodation and recreational facilities

● Food and catering
Accommodation and recreational facilities

To ensure that seafarers have decent accommodation and recreational
facilities on board
You are entitled to safe and decent living and recreational facilities on board.
Flag States have to pass laws and regulations obliging ships flying their flag
to comply with a set of standards that must be inspected for compliance.
Inspections have to be carried out when a ship is registered, re-registered
or when substantial structural changes are made to the accommodation
on board.
The laws and regulations on accommodation and recreational facilities must

also take into account the Convention’s requirements for health and safety
protection and accident prevention (see page 39).
When setting standards, particular attention must be given to:
● The size of rooms and other accommodation spaces

● Heating and ventilation
● Noise, vibration and other ambient factors
● Sanitary facilities
● Lighting
● Hospital accommodation
27
The following tables set out the minimum requirements that flag States
must ensure are fulfilled on their ships. However, provisions relating to
ship construction and fixed equipment don’t apply to ships built before the
Convention obligations come into force (ie. when the Convention’s ratification
requirements have been met and the flag State in question has signed up).
(Text in italics in the table below indicates that the provision is from the guidelines, part B of the code.)
General Requirement Exemptions & Allowances

Bulkheads Watertight, gas-tight and
constructed from materials that
are fit for purpose
Headroom Adequate and not less than Limited reduction can be

203cm permitted by the authorities
responsible for regulation if
reasonable and if seafarers are
not discomforted
Insulation Adequate
Lighting and Adequate

drainage
Heating in ships Adequate heating systems. Where ship is trading

Heating systems should be able exclusively in tropical climates
to maintain a satisfactory
temperature in the normal
conditions of the trading area
Ventilation in ships Air conditioning for seafarer Where ship is regularly trading
accommodation, radio rooms in a temperate climate
and central machinery control
rooms. The ventilation and air
conditioning system should at
all times maintain comfortable
conditions for crew
28
Health and safety Health and safety protection and
protection and accident prevention
accident requirements apply to
prevention accommodation and recreational
and catering facilities. They must
prevent the risk of exposure to
hazards and provide acceptable

occupational and onboard living
environment for seafarers
Prevention of Reasonable precautions must be

noise, vibration, taken to prevent the risk of
other ambient exposure to hazardous levels of
factors and noise, vibration, other harmful
chemicals ambient factors and chemicals.
Accommodation and recreational
and catering facilities should be
located as far as practicable from
the engines, steering gear rooms,
deck winches, ventilation,
heating and air-conditioning
equipment and other noisy
machinery and apparatus.
There should be adequate sound
proofing and insulation against
engine room noise.
Limits for noise levels in working
and living spaces should be in
line with ILO and IMO
international guidelines, copies
should be available and
accessible to seafarers on board,
No accommodation, recreational
or catering facilities should be
exposed to excessive vibration
Ships trading Fitted with appropriate devices

regularly to
mosquito-infested
ports
29
Hospital Separate hospital May be relaxed for ships
accommodation accommodation to be used engaged in coastal trade
exclusively for medical purposes,
on ships with 15 or more
seafarers, on voyages of more
than three days.
The accommodation should be
comfortable and designed for

medical consultations, first aid
and to prevent the spread of
infectious diseases.
There should be separate
sanitary facilities, at least one
toilet, one wash basin and one
tub/shower
Mess rooms Located separate from sleeping Ships of less than 3,000 GT may
rooms, close to the galley be exempt following consultation
Adequate for the number of crew. with shipowners’ and seafarers’
Where there is more than one representatives
mess room, one should be for
the master and officers, separate
facilities should be provided for
all other seafarers.
Floor area per person should be Recommended floor area may be
at least 1.5 square metres. less on passenger ships
Mess rooms should be equipped
with sufficient tables and seats.
There should be facilities for hot
beverages, cool water and a
conveniently situated refrigerator
available at all times.
Shipowner should provide good
quality plates, cups and other
mess utensils
30
Recreational Appropriate to meet the needs of
facilities, all seafarers living and working
amenities on board.
Taking into account health and
safety protection and accident
prevention.
Ideally, some or all of the

following should be provided:
smoking room and bars, TV,
radio, video, CD, DVD and PC
equipment, sports and
swimming facilities, table and
deck games, library, facilities for
practising handicrafts,
communication facilities
including email and internet
access
Laundry facilities Appropriately situated and Ships of less than 200 GT may
furnished be exempt following
Laundry facilities should include consultation with shipowners’
washing machines, drying and seafarers’ representatives
machines or drying rooms and
irons and ironing boards
Other facilities Changing rooms (if they exist)

for engine department
personnel should be easily
accessible but outside the
machinery space.
They should be fitted with
individual lockers, tubs/showers
and wash basins with hot and
cold running fresh water
Deck space Open deck space accessible to

off-duty seafarers
Ship’s office(s) For use by deck and engine Ships of less than 3,000 GT
departments may be exempt following
consultation with shipowners’
and seafarers’ representatives
31
Inspections Master should be required to
oversee frequent inspections
to ensure decent, clean, well-
maintained conditions on
board Results to be recorded
for review
Variations for Variations for Unless they result in facilities

religious/social religious/social practices that are less favourable overall
practices
Sleeping
Requirement Exemptions & Allowances
Accommodation
Situation of sleeping Above the load line, In exceptional cases sleeping
rooms on vessels amidships or aft rooms may be located in the
fore part of the ship, never
forward of the collision
bulkhead
Situation of sleeping As above May be below the load line if

rooms on passenger lighting and ventilation is
ships and special satisfactory, but never
purpose ships immediately beneath working
alleyways
Access to sleeping No direct openings from

rooms cargo and machinery
spaces, galleys,
storerooms, drying rooms
or communal sanitary
areas
Lighting in sleeping Natural light and adequate Special arrangements may be

rooms and mess artificial light. permitted in passenger ships
rooms Sidelights in sleeping rooms
should have curtains.
Each berth should be
provided with a reading
lamp
32
Sleeping
Accommodation
Ventilation and heating Adequate
in sleeping rooms and
mess rooms
Sleeping rooms on Individual rooms. Ships of less than 3,000 GT and

vessels other than In case of exemptions, a special purpose ships may be
passenger ships maximum of two seafarers exempt following consultation
to one room is allowed, with shipowners’ and seafarers’
and the room must be at representatives
least 7 square metres
Sleeping rooms Separate rooms for men

and women.
Adequate size and
properly equipped.
Separate berths.
Where possible sleeping
rooms should be planned
and equipped with a private
bathroom, including a toilet.
They should be fitted with a
mirror, cabinet for toiletries,
book rack and coat hooks.
They should be arranged so
that seafarers working
during the day don’t have to
share a room with
watchkeepers
Floor area: single berth 4.5 (7.5 for Officers*) Reduced area may be permitted
rooms in ships less square metres in order to provide single berth
than 3,000GT rooms on ships below 3,000 GT,
passenger ships and special
purpose ships.
Ships of less than 200 GT may
be exempt following
Floor area: single berth 5.5 (8.5 for Officers*) square

rooms in ships 3,000- metres
10,000 GT
33
Sleeping
Accommodation
Floor area: single berth 7 (10 for Officers*) square
rooms in ships over metres
10,000 GT
Sleeping rooms on 7.5 square metres in rooms Ships of less than 200 GT may
passenger ships and for two people, 11.5 square be exempt following
special purpose ships metres in rooms for three consultation with shipowners’
people, 14.5 square metres and seafarers’ representatives
in rooms for four people
Special purpose ships May have more than four Ships of less than 200 GT may
people to a room, minimum be exempt following
of 3.6 square metres consultation with shipowners’
required per person and seafarers’ representatives
Master, chief engineer, Sitting room/day room in Ships of less than 3,000 GT may
chief navigating officer addition to sleeping quarters be exempt following
*Applies for officers where no private sitting room or day room is provided
Berths Minimum inside dimension:
198cm x 80cm. Berths should
be as comfortable as possible
for the seafarer and partners
who may accompany them.
Berths should be fitted with a
comfortable mattress.
Berths should be no more
than two-tier and should not
obstruct sidelights.
Bedding and other Clean bedding, towels, soap

provisions and toilet paper should be
supplied by the shipowner
Furniture per sleeping Table/desk.

room Comfortable seating
Furniture per person Lockable clothes locker (min

475 litres).Drawer (min 56
litres).If combined, min total
volume of 500 litres)
34
Sanitary Facilities Requirement Exemptions & Allowances
Easily accessible for all seafarers
on board, meeting standards of
health, hygiene and comfort.
Separate facilities for men and
women.
Additional facilities in easy reach Ships of less than 3,000 GT

of the navigating bridge and the
engine room control centre.
Ventilation to the open air
All ships Minimum of one toilet, one wash

basin, and one tub/shower per
max six persons without private
facilities.
Toilets should have flushing
mechanisms.
Toilets should be separate from,
but convenient for sleeping and
wash rooms.
All sanitary facilities should have
sufficient lighting, heating and
ventilation
All sleeping rooms Washbasin with hot and cold Unless a private bathroom
other than on running fresh water is provided.Passenger ships
passenger ships normally engaged on voyages
of no more than 4 hours may
make special arrangements.
Ships of less than 200 GT,
may be exempt following
consultation with
shipowners’ and seafarers’
representatives
All wash places Hot and cold fresh running

water
35
ACCOMMODATION TABLE
All ships Passenger Special Ships Ships below
above ships purpose below 200 gt
3,000 gt ships 3,000 gt
Individual sleeping Yes No May be May be

rooms
Separate sleeping Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

rooms for men and
women
Separate bed Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

1.98 x 80 cm
Headroom 203 cm Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Min floor area in 5.5 sq. m 4.5 sq.m 4.5 sq.m 4.5 sq.m
single berth ships less possible possible possible
sleeping room than reduction reduction reduction
10,000 gt,
7 sq.m ships
more than
10,000 gt
Two seafarers No May be May be Yes 7 sq.m

/sleeping room or more
floor area
Three or four No May be May be No

seafarers/
sleeping room
More than four No No Yes, at No

ratings / least 3.6
sleeping room sq.m per
person
36
ACCOMMODATION TABLE
All ships above Passenger Special Ships Ships
3,000 gt ships purpose below below
ships 3,000 gt 200 gt
Min floor area for 8.5 sq.m in ships junior officers: 7.5 sq.m 7.5 sq.m

officers in sleeping less than 10,000 senior officers: 8.5 sq.m
room where no gt; 10 sq.m in
private sitting room ships more than
provided 10,000 gt
Min floor area for (i)7.5 sq.m in rooms

ratings in sleeping accommodating two
room persons;
(ii) 11.5 sq.m in rooms
accommodating three
persons;
(iii)14.5 sq.m in rooms
accommodating four
persons
Adjoining sitting Yes Yes May be

room for the master,
the chief engineer
and the chief
navigating officer
37
Food and catering
To ensure that seafarers have access to good quality food and drinking
water provided under regulated hygienic conditions
Ships must carry sufficient quantities of good quality food and drinking water
and supply it free of charge during your period of engagement. Food provided
has to be nutritious and varied and prepared and served in hygienic
conditions. Religious and cultural differences also have to be considered.
Frequent inspections have to be carried out and recorded by the Captain or

someone under his/her authority. The following has to be checked:
● Supplies of food and drinking water

● Spaces and equipment use for storing and handling food and
drinking water
● Galley and food preparation areas
Ships’ cooks have to be over 18 and appropriately trained and qualified for
the job. However, on ships with less than 10 crew or in exceptional cases for a
period no longer than one month, the cook does not have to be fully qualified,
but all those responsible for handling food, must be trained in matters
relating to hygiene, food and its storage on board.
38
TITLE 4: Health Protection, Medical Care, Welfare and Social Security
Protection
● Medical care on board ship and ashore

● Shipowners’ liability
● Health and safety protection and accident prevention
● Access to shore-based welfare facilities

● Social security
Medical care on board ship and ashore
To protect the health of seafarers and ensure their prompt access to medical
care on board ship and ashore
Whilst you are on board you must be able to protect your health and have
prompt access to medical care, including dental care, should you need it. The
flag State is responsible for standards of health protection on the vessel and
for promoting health education programmes on board.
You should not be worse off than people working ashore. This means you
should have prompt access to necessary medicines, medical equipment and
facilities for diagnosis and treatment as well as medical information and
expertise.
All States that have signed the Convention must give you access to medical
care if you are in urgent need of it whilst in their territory. When in port you
should be able to visit a doctor or dentist without delay. You should be able to
get medical care and health protection free of charge, though the level of
provision may vary according to national law.
You should have access to:
● Outpatient treatment for sickness and injury

● Hospitalisation if necessary
● Facilities for dental treatment, especially in cases of emergency
● Hospitals and clinics for the treatment of disease
You should be admitted promptly regardless of nationality or religious belief

and, where possible and necessary, you should receive continuing treatment.
Ships’ Captains and medical personnel on board and ashore must use a
standard medical report form which must be kept confidential
39
On-board medical facilities
All ships have to have a medical chest, medical equipment and a medical
guide on board.
The contents of medical chests and the equipment on board should be

determined by national medical guides taking into account the latest edition
of the WHO/ILO/IMO International Medical Guide for Ships. Inspections

should be carried out at least every 12 months and should look at labelling, expiry
dates, condition of storing medicine and the correct functioning of equipment.
Whenever dangerous goods are carried on board, you should be informed of all
necessary information on the nature of the substances, including risks, necessary
measures for personal protection, relevant medical procedures and antidotes.
Any such antidotes should be carried on board along with protective devices.
For ships carrying 100 or more people, on international voyages of more than
three days, there must be a qualified medical doctor on board. National laws
may require other ships to carry a doctor depending on the nature and
conditions of the voyage.
Where there is no doctor on board, at least one seafarer must be in charge of

medical care as part of their regular duties, or able to provide medical first aid.
Appropriate training must be completed as specified in the STCW convention.
Training should be based on the contents of the following publications as well
as any national guidance:
● International Medical Guide for Ships

● Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving
Dangerous Goods
40
● Document for Guidance – An International Maritime Training Guide
● International Code of Signals (medical sections)
Normally seafarers with medical responsibilities should go on refresher

courses every 5 years to maintain their knowledge and keep up to date with
new developments.

There must be arrangements for sending medical queries and receiving
medical advice by radio or satellite communication 24 hours/day, free of
charge. Ships should carry a complete, up-to-date list of radio stations and
coast earth stations that can be contacted for the purpose.
If you are the person responsible for medical care on board, you
should have had:
● instruction in the use of the ship’s medical guide and the medical
section of the most recent edition of the International Code of Signals
● training in medical care and first aid in line with STCW and
requirements and national laws, including practical training and
training in life-saving techniques
You should be able to demonstrate that you can:
● provide satisfactory medical care to people who become sick or

are injured during the period they are likely to remain on board
● understand the type of information needed by an advising doctor
as well as the advice received
41
Shipowners’ liability
To ensure that seafarers are protected from the financial consequences of

sickness, injury or death occurring in connection with their employment
Shipowners are responsible for any costs resulting from sickness, injury or
death connected to your employment, from the date you start a contract until
you have been repatriated, or you can claim medical benefits under an
insurance /compensation scheme. This could be a State, or private
sickness/accident insurance, or a workers’ compensation scheme.
If you need medicine, medical treatment, or have to stay away from home while
your condition is treated, the shipowner has to pay any bills until you have
recovered or you have been signed off as permanently disabled. The shipowner’s
responsibility for paying these costs may be limited to 16 weeks from the day of
injury/sickness, if stated in national law/regulation.
If you are unable to work as a result of the injury/illness you should get full wages
so long as you are on board. When you get home national laws and CBAs apply
which will determine whether you get full pay, part pay or a cash settlement.
These payments may be limited to 16 weeks from the day of injury/sickness.
In the event of your death or long-term disability due to an occupational illness or

injury, shipowners must provide compensation as set out in national law, your
employment agreement or your CBA. Shipowners are also liable for any burial
expenses if you die, whether on board or ashore, during the period of engagement.
When is the shipowner not liable?
● If you were injured whilst not in the service of the ship

● If you were injured or became sick as a result of wilful misconduct
● If you intentionally hid the fact you were sick when you were engaged
You have a right to receive contractual compensation according to your

employment agreement. It should always be paid in full and without delay. Don’t
be pressured into accepting anything less than the contractual amount.
If an assessment is needed to determine long term disability you are entitled to

receive an interim payment to avoid undue hardship. This payment may be offset
against other damages arising from the same incident but it cannot prejudice any
other legal rights you may have.
42
Claims can be made by you, your next of kin or a representative.
Details of the certificate or policy must be clearly posted on board in English. You
have a right to be informed if a shipowners financial security is to be cancelled or
terminated.
43
Health and safety protection and accident prevention
To ensure that seafarers’ work environment on board ships promotes

occupational safety and health
You are entitled to live and work in a safe and hygienic environment where a
culture of safety and health is actively promoted.
Safety and health on board has to be regulated by the laws of the flag State,
taking into account international standards.
The following has to be on board:
● A health policy and programme, including risk evaluation and training

● Precautions to prevent accidents, injuries and the spread of disease,
including the effects of handling chemicals and the use of machinery
and equipment on board
● Involvement of seafarers’ representatives in programmes to improve
occupational safety and health and accident prevention
● A process for inspecting, reporting and correcting unsafe conditions
and for investigating and reporting on-board accidents (ref. ILO ‘Accident
prevention on board ship at sea and in port’, 1996)
● Investigation and reporting must ensure that your
personal data is protected
Seafarers and shipowners have an obligation to comply with standards set for
occupational safety and health on board, these must be clearly specified along
with the duties of the Captain or the person made responsible by the Captain for
safety and health on board. Your attention must be drawn to any safety regulation
or procedures to be followed on board and information should be clearly posted.
There should also be ongoing publicity campaigns advising on health protection
and accident prevention.
If you are on a ship with five or more seafarers, you have to have a seafarers’
safety representative elected or appointed by the crew to participate in the
ship’s safety committee.
The ITF has guidance on the role of the onboard safety representative,
see www.itfseafarers.org or contact an ITF inspector.
44
There are international standards that set out requirements on acceptable
levels of exposure to workplace hazards as well as how to develop and put
into practice ships’ occupational safety and health policies. The MLC doesn’t
specify details; instead it sets out what matters should be addressed in the
flag State regulations. It is the shipowners’ responsibility to put them into
practice.

What should be covered by occupational safety and health
procedures and practice on board?
● Structural features of the ship including access and asbestos

related risks
● Machinery
Where necessary, employers are under an obligation to provide
appropriate guards for machinery. You should not operate
machinery if the guards are not provided.
● Effects on surfaces of extremely high and low temperatures
● Effects of noise in working and living spaces
Including instruction on the danger, provision of protective
equipment, risk assessment and reduction of exposure levels
● Effects of vibration in working and living spaces
Including instruction on the danger, provision of protective
equipment, risk assessment and reduction of exposure levels
● Effects of ambient factors, including tobacco smoke
● Special safety measures on deck and below
● Manual handling of loads and loading and unloading equipment
● Fire prevention and fire fighting
● Anchors, chains and lines
● Dangerous cargo and ballast
● Personal protective equipment
● Work in enclosed spaces
● Physical and mental effects of fatigue
● Effects of drug and alcohol dependency
● HIV/AIDS protection and prevention
● Emergency and accident response
45
Young Seafarers
Young seafarers should not be expected to carry out high risk work without
supervision, or night work unless for training purposes.
The ITF and ICS have produced guidance on the elimination of shipboard
harassment and bullying, see
http://www.itfglobal.org/en/resources/reports-publications/ics-itf-
bullying-and-harassment-guide
46
Access to shore-based welfare facilities
To ensure that seafarers working on board a ship have access to

shore-based facilities and services to secure their health and well-being
The Convention encourages the establishment of port-based welfare

facilities. They should be easily accessible to you regardless of your

nationality, race, colour, sex, religion, political opinion, social class and the
flag of your ship. Ideally they should include meeting and recreation rooms
and facilities for sport, education, religious needs and personal counselling.
In the interests of your health and well-being, every effort should be made by
the people responsible in port and on board your ship to allow you to take
shore leave as soon as possible after arrival in port.
You should be informed of the facilities available to and be advised of any

local laws or customs that, if broken, could endanger your freedom. There
should be welfare boards to make sure that the welfare services provided are
adequate.
Consulates
In case you get into difficulty in a foreign port, you should have access to
your consul (if there is one) and there should be good cooperation between your
consulate and the local authorities. If you are detained, your case should be dealt
with promptly and lawfully. You can seek assistance and protection either from the
country of your nationality or from the flag State of your vessel, so you should
make sure both are immediately informed if you are detained abroad.
47
Social security
To ensure that measures are taken with a view to providing seafarers with
access to social security protection
You and your dependants have a right to have access to social security
protection as far as they are provided in national law.
In some countries social security is provided by the State through taxation. In

other countries it is a matter for private individuals to take out personal insurance
or to make arrangements through a company scheme. As a seafarer you may
come under the law of your home country or that of the flag State, either way,
the provisions should be no worse than for a shore-based worker in that State.
What is meant by ‘Social Security’?
The following list shows the different areas that you need to consider when
checking what you’re covered for:
● Medical care
● Sickness benefit
● Unemployment benefit
● Old-age benefit
● Employment injury benefit
● Family benefit
● Maternity benefit
● Invalidity benefit
● Survivors’ benefit
The MLC aims to encourage wider social security protection for seafarers.
States signing up to the Convention have to provide at least three from the
above list, the three recommended areas are: medical care, sickness
benefit and employment injury benefit. Normally this should be done by
the authorities in the country where you live, but it may be arranged through
agreement with the flag State or through your employer or union. You may
have to contribute financially to the scheme. The point is that you should
not be worse off, in terms of social security, on account of choosing a
career at sea.
48
In the event of any dispute over social security provisions, there has to be a fair
and effective settlement procedure.
Your employment agreement should clearly set out any aspects of social
security protection provided by the shipowner, any statutory deductions that are
to come out of your wages (to be paid into a State scheme) and any
contributions that the shipowner has to pay on your behalf.

Where the shipowner has responsibilities for making social security payments
on your behalf, the flag State must ensure compliance.
49
50
3. Safeguarding your rights
TITLE 5: Compliance and Enforcement
● Flag State responsibilities

● Port State responsibilities
● Labour-supplying responsibilities
There are several ways to address problems of non-compliance with the MLC.
If the problem is with the flag State, ie, It has not put in place adequate regulations
to implement the Convention, the issue should be referred to the ITF to be raised
with the International Labour Organization through official channels (see onshore
complaint handling procedure pg59). If the problem is with a shipowner then the
matter can be raised with the flag State or with the port State. There is a
Safeguarding your rights

mechanism for Flag State inspectors and another for Port State Control (PSC)
Officers, these are regular official requirements to ensure initial and ongoing
compliance. In addition, as a seafarer you can make a complaint on board either
to a senior officer, to the Captain or, for that matter, to the shipowner or to the
flag State. You can also make a complaint to a PSC officer/labour inspector. You
don’t have to make the complaint directly, someone else (for example, an ITF
inspector or a welfare worker) can make it for you. Care must be taken to ensure
that you cannot be victimised for making a complaint, confidentiality must be
respected at all times.
Flag State responsibilities
To ensure that each Member implements its responsibilities under this

Convention with respect to ships that fly its flag
Every flag State that has ratified the Convention is responsible for ensuring
that the MLC’s requirements are implemented on board ships flying its flag.
Whenever the Convention refers to a Member’s responsibility, that State has to make
sure that it has national laws, regulations or some other measure in place that fulfil
the requirement. For example taking the minimum age for seafarers, a State may
advise of compliance with this requirement through a national law prohibiting anyone
under the age of 16 to work. Taking the requirement to ensure provision of a minimum
of three forms of social security protection, if a State had nothing in its national law
referring to social security, or failed to cover the minimum required, it would have to
pass laws, amend its regulations or come up with some other measure to ensure
compliance with this provision of the MLC.
51
Each flag State will decide for itself how to comply with the Convention so
conditions will vary from flag State to flag State. This is permitted so long as
the Convention’s requirements are met and the ship complies with the flag
State’s standards, which must be set out in the Maritime Labour Certificate
and the Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance.
Ships flying the flag of a State that has signed the Convention must also
have a copy of the Convention available on board.
Maritime labour certificate
Each ship over 500 GT, operating in international waters or between ports of different
coutries, has to have a maritime labour certificate issued either by the flag State or by
the recognized organization working on its behalf. The certificate can be valid for a
period of no more than five years. The certificate confirms that the vessel complies
with the Convention requirements and the following points have to be addressed:
● Minimum age
● Medical certification
● Qualifications of seafarers
● Seafarers’ employment agreements
● Use of any licensed or certified or regulated private
recruitment and placement service
● Hours of work or rest
● Manning levels for the ship
● Accommodation
● On-board recreational facilities
52
● Food and catering
● Health and safety and accident prevention
● On-board medical care
● On-board complaint procedures
● Payment of wages
● Financial security for repatriation
● Financial security relating to shipowners’ liability
The ship must be inspected to check the ongoing validity of the certificate
and to renew it at the end of the period for which it is valid. If the certificate
is valid for five years, there must be at least one intermediate inspection
between the second and third year of that term.
Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC)

Attached to the Maritime Labour Certificate must be a Declaration of Maritime
Labour Compliance. The DMLC has two parts: Part I lists the way in which the
flag State’s regulation complies with the Convention, Part II is drawn up by the
shipowner to show how the vessel is compliant with Part I. The DMLC must be
certified by an authorised representative of the flag State (or a recognised
organisation on behalf of the flag State, such as a classification society).
Certificates and related documents
The results of inspections, including deficiencies and actions taken to resolve

them, have to be noted with the date and kept on board. The DMLC, the
maritime labour certificate and any documents relating to maritime labour
inspections must be available and accessible for you to look at, as well as
for inspection by flag and port State officials, shipowners’ and seafarers’
representatives. If the originals are not in English and your ship is operating
internationally, there must also be an English translation of the documents.
When is a certificate not valid?
A maritime labour certificate ceases to be valid when:
● Inspections are not carried out within the specified period of time
● The certificate is not endorsed by the flag State or by its
recognised organization
● A ship changes flag
● A ship changes owner
● Substantial changes have been made to the structure or
equipment of the vessel
53
Inspection and enforcement
All the requirements of the MLC relating to the working and living conditions of
seafarers must be inspected, even on ships that are not required to carry a
Maritime Labour Certificate. If a ship is deficient and in serious contravention of the
requirements of the Convention, there are two ways in which this can come to light
and be addressed. One way is through the regular inspections, the other is through
the complaints procedures. The flag State inspector is responsible for the thorough,
initial inspection for compliance and the port State inspector should make sure that
everything is order when the ship comes to port.
The flag State has to operate an effective system for inspecting your working and
living conditions on board ships flying its flag. It also has to investigate any well-
founded complaint. There should be a policy on compliance and enforcement that
should be made available to you.
If a flag State inspector finds a serious breach of the Convention’s requirements,

he/she can prohibit the ship from leaving port until the problem is solved. Issues that
qualify as a serious breach are seafarers’ rights (for example, non-payment of wages)
and situations in which there is a significant danger to your safety, health or security.
In cases not involving a serious breach, the inspector may order the
deficiency to be rectified by a set date. Where a vessel has a good history
and the inspector considers the breach not to be serious, he/she may give
advice instead of taking action. Decisions over what course of action to
take will ultimately depend on the professional judgement of the inspector.
If you report a problem or grievance to an inspector, he/she must not tell the
shipowner or their representative that the information came from you. If, as a
result, an inspection is carried out on board he/she must not make it known
that this was as a result of a complaint. Under no circumstances should you
be vicitimised on account of making a complaint.
Flag State inspectors have to be independent with no vested interests that

could interfere with their duties. Reports of inspections must be sent to the
flag State with a copy given to the Master and a copy posted on board. The
reports have to be in English or in the working language of the ship. The flag
State has to keep records of the inspections of conditions for seafarers on
board and must publish annual reports on inspection activities. The flag
Stat-e has a responsibility to ensure that the breaches are rectified and to
decide on any system of penalties.
54
Reports on major incidents have to be submitted within one month of
investigation.
On-board complaint procedures
There must be a procedure in place on board your ship enabling you to make
a complaint about breaches of the Convention and your rights, including the
right to live and work in decent conditions. It must be handled fairly,
effectively and promptly. Make sure you get a clear understanding of the time
limits for dealing with your complaint, especially if the matter is serious.
To start with you should try to resolve problems at the lowest possible
level, but you do have the right to go directly to the master, or to external
authorities such as a representative of the flag State. At all times you have
the right to be accompanied by a representative or a fellow seafarer and

under no circumstances can you be victimised for making a complaint. If the
complaint cannot be resolved on board you should refer the matter ashore,
either to the shipowner or to the authorities of the flag State, the port State
visited by your ship or those in your own country.
When you join the ship you will get a copy of the on-board complaints
procedure. This will give you contact details of the responsible person from
the flag State and from your country’s administration (if different). It will also
identify the person or people on board to whom you can go for advice and
assistance in making a complaint.
Photo: Ryan Paez
55
Making a Complaint On-Board
COMPLAINT
HEAD OF DEPARTMENT/SUPERIOR OFFICER

(OR DIRECT TO CAPTAIN OR EXTERNAL AUTHORITIES
IF PREFERRED)
COMPLAINT RECORDED COPY PROVIDED TO SEAFARER

ATTEMPT TO RESOLVE THE MATTER TO THE

SEAFARER’S SATISFACTION
YES NO
CASE CLOSED DECISION

RECORDED COPY PROVIDED TO DECISION RECORDED COPY
SEAFARER PROVIDED TO SEAFARER
IF COMPLAINT WAS FIRST MADE TO HEAD

OF DEPT./OFFICER, SEAFARERS THEN REFER
COMPLAINT UP TO THE CAPTAIN OR TO
‘APPROPRIATE’ EXTERNAL AUTHORITIES
RESOLUTION NON-RESOLUTION
CASE CLOSED DECISION

RECORDED COPY PROVIDED TO MATTER TO BE REFERRED
SEAFARER TO SHIPOWNER ASHORE OR
CONSIDER WHETHER THE
ON-SHORE COMPLAINT PRO-
CEDURE (SEE PAGE 59)CAN
HELP YOU
56
Maritime casualties
If an incident occurs involving serious injury or loss of life, an official inquiry

must be held.
Port State responsibilities
To enable each Member to implement its responsibilities under this

Convention regarding the international cooperation in the implementation
and enforcement of the Convention standards on foreign ships
Inspections in port

While the flag State is responsible for ensuring that vessels flying its flag
comply with the Convention, the port State inspections provide an ongoing
mechanism for checking compliance. Normally a Port State Control inspector
will go on board and just check that the maritime labour certificate and the
declaration of maritime labour compliance are in order.
A more detailed inspection can be carried out under the following

circumstances:
● the documents are not produced, are invalid or have been falsified
● the inspector has grounds for believing that the working and living
conditions are substandard in terms of the Convention
● the ship has changed flag in an attempt to avoid compliance with
the Convention
● a specific complaint has been made about the working/living
conditions on board by a seafarer, a trade union, or any person with
an interest in the safety and health of seafarers and their ship
Where deficiencies are found, the inspector should bring them to the attention
of the master and give him/her a deadline to fix them. If the conditions on
board are found to be hazardous to your safety, health or security or there has
been a serious or repeated breach of the Convention requirements, the ship
can be detained until the problems have been rectified. Seafarers’ and
shipowners’ organisations have to be informed of significant complaints or
deficiencies found in the course of inspections in port.
57
Examples of circumstances that may require detention of the ship
The following list is taken from the Guidelines for port State control officers
carrying out inspections under the MLC, 2006. They are examples of the kinds of
circumstances which could warrant a decision to keep the ship in port, either
because they are repeated or because of the seriousness of a single instance:
● The presence of any seafarer on board under the age of 16

● The employment of any seafarer under the age of 18 in work likely to
jeopardise their health or safety
● Insufficient manning (including that caused by the removal of underage
seafarers)
● Any other deficiencies constituting a violation of fundamental rights and
principles or seafarers’ employment and social rights (see pg 3)
● Any non-conformity applied in a way that violates those fundamental

rights (for example the attribution of substandard accommodation based
on the race or gender or trade union activities of the seafarers concerned)
● Repeated cases of seafarers without valid certificates confirming medical
fitness for duties
● Seafarers on board the same ship repeatedly not in possession of valid
seafarers’ employment agreements (SEAs) or seafarers with SEAs
containing clauses constituting a denial of seafarers’ rights
● Seafarers repeatedly working beyond maximum hours of work or having
less than the minimum hours of rest
● Ventilation and/or air conditioning and/or heating that is not working
adequately
● Accommodation, including catering and sanitary facilities, that is
unhygienic or where equipment is missing or not functioning
● Quality and quantity of food and drinking water not suitable for the
intended voyage
● Medical guide or medical chest or medical equipment, as required, not on board
● No medical doctor for passenger ships engaged in international voyages of
more than three days, carrying 100 persons or more, or no seafarer in
charge of medical care on board
● Repeated cases of non-payment of wages or the non-payment of
wages over a significant period or the falsification of wage accounts
or the existence of more than one set of wage accounts
● The certificate or documentary evidence of financial security for
repatriation, issued by the financial security provider, is missing
● The certificate or documentary evidence of financial security relating
shipowners’ liability, issued by the financial security provider, is missing.
58
On-Shore Complaint Handling Procedure
COMPLAINT
PORT STATE CONTROL

INSPECTOR
UNDERTAKES INVESTIGATION
CHECK IF ON-BOARD
PROCEDURE FOLLOWED

TRIES TO RESOLVE DEFICIENCIES
AT SHIP-BOARD LEVEL
PROBLEM
SUCCESSFULLY
RESOLVED PROBLEMS NOT RESOLVED
PROBLEMS NOT RESOLVED, HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS
BUT ARE NOT CONSIDERED ON BOARD SERIOUS/RE-
SEVERE E NOUGH TO PEATED BREACH OF THE
REQUIRE DETENTION OF CONVENTION INCLUDING
SEAFARER INFORMED THE VESSEL BREACH OF SEAFARERS’
’
OF ACTIONS TAKEN RIGHTS
DECISION RECORDED COPY
PROVIDED TO SEAFARER
CASE CLOSED
INSPECTOR NOTIFIES INSPECTOR CAN HAVE SHIP
FLAG STATE AND REQU IRES DETAINED UNTIL SUCH
A CORRECTIVE PLAN TIME AS THE DEFICIENCIES
OF ACTION SETS A ARE RESOLVED OR HE/SHE
PRESCRIBED DEADLINE IS SATISFIED THAT THERE
FOR RESOLVING THE IS AN ADEQUATE PLAN FOR
PROBLEMS RECTIFICATION
IF THE PROBLEMS
ARE STILL NOT RESOLVED FLAG STATE
REPORT SENT TO NOTIFIED SHIPOWNERS’
DIRECTOR GENERAL OF AND SEAFARERS’
THE ILO. SEAFARERS’ ORGANISATIONS
AND SHIPOWNERS’ INFORMED
ORGANISATIONS INFORMED
59
Labour-supplying responsibilities
These ensure that each Member implements its responsibilities under this
Convention as pertaining to seafarer recruitment and placement and the
protection of its seafarers
States that sign up to this Convention may have responsibilities on three

counts, firstly as a flag State, secondly as a port State and thirdly as the
State from which you, the seafarer comes. Labour-supply States have to
make sure that recruitment and placement services through which your
labour is contracted are properly regulated. They may also have
`responsibility for the provision of social security.
60
4. Conventions incorporated into the MLC
Minimum Age (Sea) Convention, 1920 (No.7)
Unemployment Indemnity (Shipwreck) Convention, 1920 (No.8)
Placing of Seamen Convention, 1920 (No.9)
Medical Examination of Young Persons (Sea) Convention, 1921 (No.16)
Seamen’s Articles of Agreement Convention, 1926 (No.22)
Repatriation of Seamen Convention, 1926 (No.23)
Conventions incorporated into the MLC

Officers’ Competency Certificates Convention, 1936 (No.53)
Holidays with Pay (Sea) Convention, 1936 (No.54)
Shipowners’ Liability (Sick and Injured Seamen) Convention, 1936 (No.55)
Sickness Insurance (Sea) Convention, 1936 (No.56)
Hours of Work and Manning (Sea) Convention, 1936 (No.57)
Minimum Age (Sea) Convention (Revised), 1936 (No.58)
Food and Catering (Ships’ Crews) Convention, 1946 (No.68)
Certification of Ships’ Cooks Convention, 1946 (No.69)
Social Security (Seafarers) Convention, 1946 (No.70)
Paid Vacations (Seafarers) Convention, 1946 (No.72)
Medical Examination (Seafarers) Convention, 1946 (No.73)
Certification of Able Seamen Convention, 1946 (No.74)
Accommodation of Crews Convention, 1946 (No.75)
Wages, Hours of Work and Manning (Sea) Convention, 1946 (No.76)
Paid Vacations (Seafarers) Convention (Revised), 1949 (No.91)
Accommodation of Crews Convention (Revised), 1949 (No.92)
Wages, Hours of Work and Manning (Sea) Convention (Revised), 1949 (No.93)
61
Wages, Hours of Work and Manning (Sea) Convention (Revised), 1958 (No. 109)
Accommodation of Crews (Supplementary Provisions) Convention, 1970 (No.133)
Prevention of Accidents (Seafarers) Convention, 1970 (No.134)
Continuity of Employment (Seafarers) Convention, 1976 (No.145)
Seafarers’ Annual Leave with Pay Convention, 1976 (No.146)
Merchant Shipping (Minimum Standards) Convention, 1976 (No.147)
Seafarers Welfare Convention, 1987 (No.163)
Conventions incorporated into the MLC
Health Protection and Medical Care (Seafarers) Convention, 1987 (No.164)

Social Security (Seafarers) Convention (Revised), 1987 (No.165)
Repatriation of Seafarers Convention (Revised), 1987 (No.166)
Labour Inspection (Seafarers) Convention, 1996 (No.178)
Recruitment and Placement of Seafarers Convention, 1996 (No.179)
Seafarers’ Hours of Work and the Manning of Ships Convention, 1996 (No.180)
62
5. MLC Index – where to find what you’re
looking for
INDEX Articles, Regulations, Page Ref
Standards and Guidelines
Accident prevention Regulation 4.3 44

Standard A4.3 44
MLC Index – where to find what you’re looking for

Guideline B4.3 44
Accommodation and recreational facilities Regulation 3.1 27

Standard A3.1 27
Guideline B3.1 27
Amendment of this Convention Article XIV -
Amendments to the Code Article XV -
Amendments to the MLC,2006 (2014) 7
Amendments to the MLC,2006 (2016) 10
Annual leave, taking of Guideline B2.4.2 21
Authoritative languages Article XVI -
Bedding, mess utensils and miscellaneous Guideline B3.1.10 34,30

provisions
Calculation and payment (wages) Guideline B2.2.2 18
Calculation of entitlement (leave) Guideline B2.4.1 21
Calculation of indemnity against Guideline B2.6.1 24

unemployment (ship’s loss or foundering)
Career and skill development and Regulation 2.8 26

opportunities for seafarers’ employment Standard A2.8 26
Guideline B2.8 26
Career and skill development, Guideline B2.8.1 26

Measures to promote
Casualties, Marine Regulation 5.1.6 57
Certification Title 5 52
63
Complaints procedures, On-board Regulation 5.1.5 56

Standard A5.1.5 56
Guideline B5.1.5 56
Complaints procedures, On-shore Regulation 5.2.2 55,59

Standard A5.2.2 55,59
MLC Index – where to find what you’relooking for
Guideline B5.2.2 55,59
Compliance and enforcement Title 5 49
Conditions of employment Title 2 16
Declaration of Maritime Labour Appendix A5-II 53

Compliance – Part I, form
Declaration of Maritime Labour Appendix A5-II 53

Compliance – Part II, form
Declaration of Maritime Labour Appendix B5-I -

Compliance Part II, sample
Declaration of maritime labour Regulation 5.1.3 53

compliance, Maritime labour certificate Standard A5.1.3 53
and Guideline B5.1.3 53
Deficiencies, Rectification of Title 5 53,57
Definitions and scope of application Article II 2
Definitions, Specific (wages) Guideline B2.2.1 18
Denunciation Article IX -
Dependants of seafarers (medical care) Guideline B4.1.5 -
Depositary functions Article XI -

Article XII -
Design and construction (accommodation) Guideline B3.1.1 28
Diseases, Provisions on Guideline B4.3.1 44
Dispute settlement (manning levels) Guideline B2.7.1 25
64
Enforcement, Compliance and Title 5 49
Enforcement, Inspection and Regulation 5.1.4 52
Entry into force Article VIII 2

Entry into force, Effect of Article X 1
Explanatory note to the Regulations and 4

Code of the Martitime Labour Convention
Facilities, Other Guideline B3.1.9 -
Flag State responsibilities (compliance Regulation 5.1 49

and enforcement)
Food and catering Regulation 3.2 38

Standard A3.2 38
Guideline B3.2 38
Foreign port, Seafarers in a Guideline B4.4.6 47
Fundamental rights and principles Article III 3
General obligations Article I 4
Health and safety protection Regulation 4.3 44

Standard A4.3 44
Guideline B4.3 44
Health protection Title 4 44
Heating (accommodation) Guideline B3.1.3 28
Hospital accommodation Guideline B3.1.8 30
Hours of work and hours of rest Regulation 2.3 20

Standard A2.3 20
Guideline B2.3 20
Implementation and enforcement Article V 49

responsibilities
65
Implementation by Members (repatriation Guideline B2.5.2 23

Indemnity
Injuries, Provisions on Guideline B4.3.1 44
Inspection and enforcement Regulation 5.1.4 54

Standard A5.1.4 54
Guideline B5.1.4 54
Inspection by the flag State, List of areas for Appendix A5-I 50
Inspection by the port State, List of areas for Appendix A5-III -
Inspection, education, research and Guideline B3.2.1 38

publication (food and catering)
Inspections in port Regulation 5.2.1 57

Standard A5.2.1 57
Guideline B5.2.1 57
Interim Maritime Labour Certificate, form Appendix A5-II -
International cooperation (occupational Guideline B4.3.11 -

safety and health protection and accident
prevention)
Investigations (occupational accidents, Guideline B4.3.6 44

injuries and diseases)
Labour-supplying responsibilities (seafarer Regulation 5.3 -

recruitment and placement) Standard A5.3 -
Guideline B5.3 -
Leave, Division and accumulation of Guideline B2.4.3 21
Leave, Entitlement to Regulation 2.4 21

Standard A2.4 21
Guideline B2.4 21
Lighting (accommodation) Guideline B3.1.4 28,32
Mail Guideline B3.1.11 -
66
Manning levels Regulation 2.7 25

Standard A2.7 25
Guideline B2.7 25
Marine casualties Regulation 5.1.6 57

Maritime labour certificate and declaration Regulation 5.1.3 52
of maritime labour compliance Standard A5.1.3 52
Guideline B5.1.3 52
Maritime labour certificate, form Appendix A5-II -
Medical assistance to other ships and Guideline B4.1.4 -

international cooperation
Medical care Title 4 39
Medical care ashore Guideline B4.1.3 39
Medical care on board ship and ashore Regulation 4.1 39

Standard A4.1 39
Guideline B4.1 39
Medical care, Provision of Guideline B4.1.1 39
Medical certificate Regulation 1.2 13

Standard A1.2 12
Guideline B1.2 12
Medical report form Guideline B4.1.2 -
Mess rooms Guideline B3.1.6 30
Minimum age Regulation 1.1 11

Standard A1.1 11
Guideline B1.1 11
Minimum monthly basic pay or wage Guideline B2.2.4 18

figure for able seafarers
Minimum requirements for seafarers to Title 1 11

work on a ship
67
Minimum wages Guideline B2.2.3 18
National Declaration, sample Appendix B5-I -
National protection and prevention Guideline B4.3.7 -

programmes
Noise and vibration, Prevention of Guideline B3.1.12 29
Noise, Exposure to Guideline B4.3.2 29
Obligations of shipowners (accident Guideline B4.3.4 45

prevention and health protection)
Occupational accidents, Provisions on Guideline B4.3.1 44

Occupational safety and health protection Guideline B4.3.9 44
and the prevention of occupational
accidents, Instruction in
On-board complaints procedures Regulation 5.1.5 55,56

Standard A5.1.5 55,56
Guideline B5.1.5 55,56
59
Onshore seafarer complaint-handling Regulation 5.2.2 59
procedures Standard A5.2.2 59
Guideline B5.2.2
10
Organisational and operational guidelines Guideline B1.4.1
(recruitment and placement)
57
Port State responsibilities (compliance and Regulation 5.2
enforcement)
-
Preamble -
Protection and prevention programmes, Guideline B4.3.8
Content of
-
Protection and prevention programmes, Guideline B4.3.7
National
-
Recognised organisations, authorization of Regulation 5.1.2 -
Standard A5.1.2 -
Guideline B5.1.2
68
Recreational facilities Guideline B3.1.11 27, 31
Recruitment and placement Regulation 1.4 15

Standard A1.4 13
Guideline B1.4 13

Register of seafarers Guideline B2.8.2 -
Regulations and Parts A and B of the Code Article VI 4
Repatriation Regulation 2.5 24

Standard A2.5 23
Guideline B2.5 23
Repatriation, Entitlement to Guideline B2.5.1 23
Reporting and collection of statistics Guideline B4.3.5 -
Safety and health education of young Guideline B4.3.10 -

seafarers
Sanitary accommodation Guideline B3.1.7 35
Seafarers employment and social rights Article IV 3
Seafarers’ employment agreements Regulation 2.1 17

Standard A2.1 16
Guideline B2.1 16
Seafarers’ organisations, Consultation with Article VII 5
Ship visit arrangements Guideline B3.1.11 -
Ship’s loss or foundering, seafarer Regulation 2.6 25

compensation for Standard A2.6 24
Guideline B2.6 24
Shipowners’ liability Regulation 4.2 43

Standard A4.2 42
Guideline B4.2 42
Shipowners’ organisations, Consultation Article VII 5

with
69
Ships’ cooks Guideline B3.2.2 38
Shore-based welfare facilities, Access to Regulation 4.4 47

Standard A4.4 47
Guideline B4.4 47
Shore-based welfare facilities, Guideline B4.4.5 -

Dissemination of information and
facilitation measures
Shore-based welfare facilities, Guideline B4.4.1 47

Responsibilities of Members
Sleeping rooms Guideline B3.1.5 32
Social security Regulation 4.5 49

Standard A4.5 48
Guideline B4.5 48
Social security protection Title 4 48
Special Tripartite Committee Article XIII -
Statistics, Reporting and collection of Guideline B4.3.5 -
Training and qualifications Regulation 1.3 13
Ventilation (accommodation) Guideline B3.1.2 28, 33
Vibration, Exposure to Guideline B4.3.3 28, 29
Wages Regulation 2.2 19

Standard A2.2 18
Guideline B2.2 18
Welfare Title 4 39, 47
Welfare boards Guideline B4.4.3 47
Welfare facilities ashore, Access to Regulation 4.4 47

Standard A4.4 47
Guideline B4.4 47
70
Welfare facilities, Financing of Guideline B4.4.4 47
Young seafarers (hours of work and hours Guideline B2.3.1 21

of rest)
Young seafarers (leave) Guideline B2.4.4 -

Young seafarers, safety and health Guideline B4.3.10 46
education
71
INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT
WORKERS’ FEDERATION
49-60 Borough Road

London SE1 1DR, UK
Tel: +44 20 7403 2733
Fax: +44 20 7357 7871
Email: mail@itf.org.uk
www.itfglobal.org
www.itfseafarers.org
ISBN: 1-904676-34-0

An ITF Guide For Seafarers To The ILO Maritime Labour Convention, 2006

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THE MARITIME LABOUR CONVENTION

An ITF Guide for Seafarers to the ILO

Incorporating amendments in 2014 and 2016

Cover Photo: Philip Apuang

An ITF Guide for Seafarers to the ILO

Incorporating amendments in 2014 and 2016

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF)

1. About the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC) 1

2. Your rights under the MLC (Titles 1 - 4) 11

Title 2: Conditions of employment 16

Title 4: Health protection, medical care, welfare and social 39

3. Safeguarding your rights (Title 5) 51

4. List of conventions incorporated into the MLC 61

5. MLC Index – where to find what you’re looking for 63

CBA – collective bargaining agreement – an agreement on terms and

Competent authority – the minister, government department or other

Contractual claim – any claim relating to seafarers’ death or long-term

DMLC – Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance – a document attached to

ICS – International Chamber of Shipping

ILO – International Labour Organization, founded in 1919 to promote social

IMO – International Maritime Organization, established in 1948 and held its

MLC – Maritime Labour Convention, 2006

Recognised organisation (RO) – an organization (such as a classification

SEA – Seafarers’ Employment Agreement – includes a contract of

SOLAS – International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974

STCW – International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and

Substantial equivalence – any law, regulation, collective agreement or other

The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC), otherwise known as the

About the Maritime Labour Convention

The MLC is designed to sit alongside regulation such as the International

Photo: Danny Cornelissen

The MLC was adopted in February 2006 with a ratification requirement of a

Who is covered under the MLC?

All ships are covered except:

● ships navigating exclusively in inland waters, close to the coast,

Any person who is employed, engaged or working in any capacity on board a

Fundamental rights, workers’ rights and the MLC

About the Maritime Labour Convention

Photo: Danny Cornelissen

● Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship

Every ship of 500 GT or above operating internationally has to have a

● Title 1: Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship

About the Maritime Labour Convention

Where there is any doubt over how compliance is to be achieved, the

Photo: Albert Veloria

2014 Amendments to Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006

About the Maritime Labour Convention

So what does the new regulation mean for you?

‘If the shipowner:

a) fails to cover the cost of the seafarer’s repatriation; or

Repatriation costs mean ‘appropriate and expeditious’ travel – normally by

tonnage, have committed to provide 24-hour emergency helplines which you

What do the amendments actually include?

Concerning the repatriation of seafarers the following amendments have

● A facility for you to have direct access to claim assistance quickly,

States must, after consultation with organisations representing shipowners

● up to four months’ wages and entitlements

Regulation 4.2 for shipowner’s liability