MPA updates seafarers’ training and certification requirements subject to the IGF Code

MPA Singapore issued a marine notice focusing on the training and certification requirements for seafarers on ships, subject to the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code).

Namely, the circular supersedes Shipping Circular no.6 of 2019,as it applies to shipowners, ship managers, masters, chief engineer officers, marine engineer officers, deck officers and ratings of Singapore registered ships subject to the IGF code.

To remind, the purpose of the International Code of Safety for Ship Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels is to provide an international standard for ships, other than vessels covered by the IGC Code, operating with gas or low-flashpoint liquids as fuel.

Training and certification requirements are as follows:

Officers and ratings who are responsible for designated safety duties associated with the care, use or in emergency response to the fuel on board ships subject to the IGF Code shall complete basic training in accordance with the provisions of section A-V/3 paragraph 1 of the STCW Code and hold certificate of proficiency (COP) in basic training for service on ships subject to the IGF Code.

Seafarers who hold valid COP, issued in accordance with regulation V/1-2 paragraphs 2 and 5 of the STCW Convention, for liquefied gas tanker cargo operations are considered to have met the requirements for basic training.

Advanced Training

In addition to the requirements of basic training in paragraph 3 or 4, Masters, engineer officers, and all other personnel with immediate responsibility for the care and use of fuels and fuel systems on IGF Code ships shall hold certificate of proficiency (COP) in advanced training for service on ships subject to the IGF Code completed the following:

1. an approved advanced training for service on ships subject to the IGF Code, meeting the standards of competence specified in section A-V/3 paragraph 2 of the STCW Code.
2. At least one month of approved sea service that includes a minimum of three bunkering operations on board ships subject to the IGF Code. Two of the three bunkering operations may be replaced by approved simulator training as part of the advanced training.

Officers who hold a valid COP, issued in accordance with regulation V/1-2 paragraphs 3 and 5 of the STCW Convention, in advanced training for liquefied gas tanker cargo operations are considered to have met the requirements of advanced training for service on ships subject to the IGF Code.

Application for COP

Holders of certificates of competency issued by MPA or those who have completed training in an approved institute in Singapore can apply for COPs at basic and advanced training for service on ships subject to the IGF Code through MPA’s website or MARINET. The cost for application and issuance of a COP is Singapore Dollar $25. COPs have a validity of 5 years.

Revalidation of COPs

Holders of COP in basic or advanced training for service on ships subject to the IGF Code, can apply for revalidation at intervals not exceeding 5 years. The requirements for revalidation are:

• have completed at least three months sea service in total in the preceding 5 years on board a ship subject to the IGF Code or on board liquefied gas tankers.
• have attended an approved refresher training in basic or advanced level for service on ships subject to the IGF Code.

Recognition of COP issued by Foreign Maritime Administrations

MPA will recognise COP in basic and advanced training for service on board Singapore registered ships subject to the IGF Code, issued by a foreign maritime administration whose certificates of competency are recognised by MPA.

List of countries whose certificates of competency are recognised by MPA is given in Shipping Circular No. 21 of 2017. It is not necessary for MPA to issue flag state endorsement for the recognition of COP.

Familiarisation Training

Company is responsible to ensure that seafarers serving on board ship subject to the IGF Code, receive appropriate ship and equipment specific familiarisation training as specified in regulation I/14 of the STCW Convention. Documentary evidence of such familiarisation training should be maintained on board.