Simulator Training: the Ongoing STCW Review
The comprehensive STCW review is in its revision phase: simulator use is under consideration, but no new universal substitution of sea service is in force without an IMO instrument and Administration requirements.
Operational Explanation
HTW has started phase 2 of the comprehensive review, with draft amendments still being developed. Public official sources do not document as an agreed outcome the claims of 37 flag States, up to three months, or the II/1–III/1–III/6 list. A submission or proposal is not a Sub-Committee decision.
Regulatory Reference
Current STCW Convention and Code; IMO Comprehensive Review FAQs, HTW 12 outcomes and future adopted reports/instruments. Administration requirements remain decisive for recognised programmes and sea service.
Simulator requirements already exist: STCW I/12 and A-I/12 govern relevant uses for mandatory training, assessment and demonstration of proficiency; I/6 and A-I/6 address instructors and assessors. Define objectives, familiarisation, briefing, assessment criteria, recording and debriefing. Course attendance does not automatically establish demonstrated competence or sea-service credit. AMSA: STCW training and simulators.
The comprehensive review is a multi-year process, not a five-year certificate-renewal cycle. HTW 12, February 2026, initiated phase 2; proposals and drafts do not themselves change current certification routes. IMO HTW 12.
Scope of Application
Training providers, candidates, Companies and Administrations. No candidate reduces sea service on the basis of an unadopted proposal.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- Identify current STCW and Administration requirement for the CoC concerned.
- Verify programme approval, simulator standard, assessment and records.
- Count sea service and simulator credit only as formally recognised.
- Label submissions and working proposals as such, with document and paragraph.
- Update the route only after applicable adoption, entry into force and national implementation.
Practical Example
A course advertises three months' credit from an HTW discussion: the candidate does not use it until the Administration and approved programme formally recognise it.
What Typically Goes Wrong
Presenting 37 States, three months and specific Regulations as a Committee outcome without the exact primary document and paragraph.
Common Mistakes Mistake Library
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Presenting 37 States, three months and specific Regulations as a Committee outcome without the exact primary document and paragraph. | Incorrect operational decision or regulatory status | Use the primary reference and ship-specific procedure |
What the PSCO Checks
Operational Tips
- Distinguish proposal, agreed draft, adopted amendment and national implementation.
- Keep the precise reference for any future credit.
- Do not promise candidates reductions before formal recognition.
Preparation checklist
- Current STCW route checked
- Administration requirements applied
- Simulator programme approved
- Sea service not reduced by proposal
- Status communicated accurately
- Evidence retained
FAQ
Related Topics
Last substantive revision of this page: 15 September 2026 · page fingerprint e7e130777315