Recent amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW Convention) require Masters, chief mates and deck officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships operating in polar waters and subjected to the requirements of the Polar Code to have additional training and hold a Certificate of Proficiency (COP) to qualify them to navigate in polar waters. Marine engineer officers and ratings do not require additional certificates.
Deck officers at the operational level are required to undergo basic training and hold a COP in basic training, while masters and chief mates should have additional training and at least two months of sea service in polar waters to qualify for a COP in advanced training.
MPA will recognise COPs in basic and advanced training, and COPs issued by maritime administrations whose certificates of competency are recognised by MPA. MPA is working with Singapore Maritime Academy to commence the additional training in Singapore.
For more information, please refer to
MPA's Shipping Circular No. 17 of 2018 .