Explanatory note

These Regulations correct deficiencies in the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1997 and the Merchant Shipping (Safe Manning, Hours of Work and Watchkeeping) Regulations 1997, which implemented the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), 1978, as amended on 7th July 1995.

They apply those Regulations to pleasure vessels which are over 24 metres and 80 gross tons in size.

In the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1997 the maximum length of adaptation periods (for assessing the competency of applicants for certificates of equivalent competency who are nationals of member States of the European Economic Area) is specified as three years (pursuant to Council Directive 89/48/EEC (OJ. No. L19, 24.1.89, p.16) on a general system of the recognition of higher education diplomas awarded on completion of professional education and training of at least three years' duration; and to Council Directive 92/51/EEC (OJ. No. L209, 24.7.92, p.25) on a second general system for the recognition of professional education and training to supplement Directive 89/48/EC).

In the Merchant Shipping (Safe Manning, Hours of Work and Watchkeeping) Regulations 1997 certain other amendments are made. In particular an offence and penalty is prescribed for employers who become subject to the duty under regulation 9 to produce schedules of work, but contravene that duty.