UK issues new edition of Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers

UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency has issued a new edition of Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP).

The COSWP serves as a comprehensive guide for ensuring health and safety on ships, covering regulatory frameworks, safety management principles, statutory obligations, and practical advice.

The latest edition of the COSWP was issued on March 28, 2024, following consultations with industry stakeholders.

Marine Guidance Note (MGN) 539 (M) Amendment 2:

This document includes the text and images from the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP) 2024 edition.

It does not match the published version and is intended for online reference only; it is not suitable for onboard use and inspection.

A digital version of the COSWP is available on gov.uk for informational purposes, but it's not suitable for onboard use. The fully designed published version can be purchased from tsoshop.co.uk.

Further details regarding the 2024 edition and its amendments are provided in Marine Information Note (MIN) 688 Amendment 2 COSWP 2024 edition.

Marine Information Note (MIN) 688 (M) Amendment 2:

This document provides details of the 2024 amendments to the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP).

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has modernized the COSWP to improve its structure, consistency, and clarity of language, making it more accessible and easier to understand.

Changes include the incorporation of recurring design elements for quicker reference, the addition of a glossary, and transitioning from loose-leaf to bound format to simplify updates and reduce administrative burdens.

While significant structural enhancements have been made, the essential safety guidance remains largely unchanged.

A digital version of the COSWP is available on gov.uk for informational purposes, with plans for further digital enhancements in progress.

The MCA proposes producing chapter summaries with updated information and links to relevant marine notices and legislation.

Regular reviews of the COSWP will continue to ensure its content remains current and applicable, with consultations with industry representatives scheduled over the coming year.

For additional inquiries or feedback, please contact seafarersafety@mcga.gov.uk.

All regulations can be found at legislation.gov.uk

For more information, please see the documents below (available only to subscribers):

Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP) 2024

MGN 539 (M) Amendment 2 - Carriage of the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP)

MIN 688 (M) Amendment 2 - Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers: (COSWP) 2024 Edition