These Regulations, implementing section 539 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 2013, establish the national framework through which The Gambia implements the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW Convention), thus regulating the qualifications, certification, training, medical fitness, manning requirements, and watchkeeping standards of seafarers serving on Gambian ships. The Regulations also create mechanisms for: issuance and recognition of certificates; inspection and enforcement; quality assurance of maritime training; minimum safe manning standards; certification of deck officers, engineer officers, ratings, and radio operators; specialised training for tankers; fatigue management and watchkeeping requirement. The principal objectives of these Regulations are: ensuring that seafarers possess internationally recognised competencies and qualifications; promotion of maritime safety through: safety of life at sea, safe navigation, safe operation of machinery and radio communication; protection of marine environment, prevention of marine pollution and environmental damage; establishment of a national certification system; ensuring safe manning of ships; establishment of standards for the enhancement of seafarer competences, including: maritime training, practical sea service, assessments, medical competences, emergency preparedness.
Gambia · 2014-01-01