The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watch keeping for Seafarers (STCW) is a set of international regulations that establish minimum training, certification, and watch keeping standards for seafarers worldwide. The STCW convention was adopted in 1978 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and has been amended several times since then. The most recent amendments to the convention were adopted in 2010 and entered into force in 2012.
Differences between STCW iii/4 and iii/5:
STCW III/4 and III/5 are two sections of the STCW convention that deal with training and certification requirements for officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships. The following are the differences between STCW III/4 and III/5:
- Scope of Application
STCW III/4 applies to officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage (GT) and III/5 applies to officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 GT or more.
- Training Requirements
STCW III/4 requires officers in charge of a navigational watch to complete a Basic Training for Ships of Less Than 500 GT course. This course covers basic knowledge of navigation, seamanship, ship handling, and communication. STCW III/5 requires officers in charge of a navigational watch to complete an Advanced Training for Ships of 500 GT or More course. This course covers advanced knowledge of navigation, ship handling, and communication.
- Sea Service Requirements
STCW III/4 requires officers in charge of a navigational watch to have at least six months of sea service on ships of less than 500 GT before they can take the Basic Training course. STCW III/5 requires officers in charge of a navigational watch to have at least 12 months of sea service on ships of 500 GT or more before they can take the Advanced Training course.
- Competence Requirements
STCW III/4 requires officers in charge of a navigational watch to demonstrate competence in the following areas:
- Navigation and maneuvering of ships
- Watchkeeping
- Communication
- Knowledge of shipboard safety and pollution prevention
STCW III/5 requires officers in charge of a navigational watch to demonstrate competence in the following areas:
- Navigation and ship handling
- Watch keeping and use of bridge equipment
- Communication
- Knowledge of shipboard safety and pollution prevention
Conclusion:
In conclusion, STCW III/4 and III/5 are two sections of the STCW convention that establish minimum training, certification, and watchkeeping standards for officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships. The main differences between the two sections are the scope of application, training requirements, sea service requirements, and competence requirements.