Updated security training requirements for seafarers on Liberian-flagged vessels

Eda Zenic -

The Marine Operations Note 04/2024 issued by the Liberia Maritime Authority provides updated policies and requirements for security-related training for seafarers under the 2010 Manila Amendments to the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) Convention. This update, effective from November 5, 2024, supersedes previous guidance (Marine Operations Note 01/2013) and emphasizes the Liberian Administration’s requirements for seafarers on ships that comply with the ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code.

1. Security Familiarization Training

  • Who Requires It: All personnel employed or engaged in any role on board a ship subject to ISPS Code compliance.
  • Purpose: To ensure each crew member is prepared to address ship-specific security concerns, including how to respond to security incidents or threats like piracy or armed robbery.
  • Content: The training covers essential security protocols, including:
    • Reporting security incidents.
    • Procedures for identifying and reacting to threats.
    • Participating in security drills for emergency situations.
  • Documentation: While formal certification from the Administration is not required, this training must be logged in the seafarer’s or ship’s official training records.

2. Security Awareness Training

  • Requirement: All seafarers working on ISPS-compliant vessels must complete security awareness training that meets the competence standards specified in STCW Table A-VI/6-4.
  • Certificate of Proficiency (COP): Seafarers must hold a COP issued by a "white-listed" country (i.e., a country approved by the Liberian Administration), demonstrating that they meet international security awareness standards.
  • Special Qualification Certificate (SQC): The Liberian Administration offers an optional SQC for seafarers who can provide evidence of their security competence. The SQC is available either as an endorsement on existing documentation or as a separate certificate, depending on how the training was completed.

3. Designated Security Duties

  • Applicability: Seafarers assigned to security-specific duties, such as anti-piracy and anti-armed robbery roles, must have additional specialized training.
  • Standards: These seafarers must be trained and competent in line with STCW standards (Section A-VI/6, paragraphs 6-8) for handling security responsibilities onboard.
  • Certificate of Proficiency (COP): They must hold a COP from a recognized white-listed country or demonstrate that they have completed equivalent training.
  • Optional SQC: The Liberian Administration also offers an optional SQC for these seafarers. It can be provided as an endorsement or as a standalone certificate.

4. Administration’s SEA System Requirements

  • Proof of Competency: For any seafarer applying for a new or renewed Liberian Seafarer Identification Book, evidence of completion of the required security-related training (STCW Regulation VI/6) must be submitted in the SEA System, in addition to Basic Training (STCW Regulation VI/1).
  • Recognition of Foreign COPs: The Liberian Administration will accept security-related COPs issued by other administrations if they are in compliance with the STCW Convention.