Regulation 7 Qualification as an officer

(1)

A seafarer must hold, in respect of the category and capacity in which that seafarer is on board listed in column 1 of the Table in Schedule 2 (categories of certificates of competency and criteria for issue)—

(a)

an appropriate certificate of competency; or

(b)

an appropriate certificate of equivalent competency.

(2)

The Secretary of State may issue a certificate of competency or a certificate of equivalent competency to a seafarer only if the Secretary of State is satisfied that the seafarer complies with the criteria in the STCW Regulations listed in column (2) of the Table in Schedule 2 in relation to the category and capacity listed in column (1) of that Table.

(3)

A certificate of competency required by this regulation—

(a)

must be issued and endorsed in accordance with this Part;

(b)

entitles the holder to act in the capacity specified in the certificate; and

(c)

entitles the holder to perform the functions required—

(i)

at the level of responsibility specified in the certificate;

(ii)

on a ship of the type, GT or power and means of propulsion indicated by the endorsement; and

(iii)

while engaged on the particular voyage concerned.

(4)

In the circumstances specified in paragraph (5), the Secretary of State may permit a seafarer who does not hold an appropriate certificate of competency, to act in a particular capacity on board a ship for a maximum period of three months.

(5)

The circumstances referred to in paragraph (4) are—

(a)

the seafarer holds a valid certificate issued by a third party State;

(b)

that certificate is appropriate for the capacity in which the seafarer is to perform; and

(c)

the seafarer has submitted an application to the Secretary of State under regulation 37 (recognition of a certificate issued by a third party State) or 38 (recognition of a party to the STCW Convention) for a certificate of equivalent competency.

(6)

Where a certificate of competency is required under this regulation, the Secretary of State may issue an alternative certificate if that certificate is in accordance with STCW Regulation VII (alternative certification).