The International Labour Organisation (ILO) Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) was introduced to help ensure that all seafarers, regardless of their nationality and the flag of the ships they work on, can enjoy decent working and living conditions.

What does MLC, 2006 require?

The Convention consists of five Titles:

  • Title 1: Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship.
  • Title 2: Conditions of employment.
  • Title 3: Accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering.
  • Title 4: Health protection, medical care, welfare and social security protection.
  • Title 5: Compliance and enforcement - on board complaint procedures.

These 5 titles contain the generic requirements of the MLC, but implementation for each individual flag State will be through its own national laws and regulations. These are summarised through a Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC) Part I, provided by the flag Administration upon request from the shipowner. It is then for the shipowner to prepare and implement a DMLC Part II, which needs to be verified and certified, following on board inspection, leading to the issue of a Maritime Labour Certificate1.

Recent and upcoming new requirements

Financial  security – 2016 amendments to the MLC 2006:

The 2016 amendments to MLC, 2006 will come into force on 8 January 2019. The amendments relate to protection of seafarers against shipboard harassment and bullying and to allow for an extension of the validity of flag state issued maritime labour certificates. See  Class News No.17/2018 for further guidance.

Financial  security – 2014 amendments to the MLC 2006:

The 2014 amendments to MLC, 2006 came into force on 18 January 2017. The amendments require the carriage of certificates, or other documentary evidence, of financial security with respect to the abandonment of seafarers and shipowners’ liability. See  Class News No.46/2016 for further guidance.

Protection of seafarers and certificate validity – 2016 amendments to the MLC 2006:

The 2016 amendments are expected to enter into force on 8 January 2019. These amendments will better protect seafarers against shipboard harassment and bullying. In addition, they will allow for an extension of the validity of maritime labour certificates in circumstances where ships have passed the renewal inspection but where a new maritime labour certificate cannot be immediately issued and made available on board. See Class News No.29/2017  for further guidance.

How can LR help?

LR is fully authorised by most flag States2  to conduct MLC verifications and issue Maritime Labour Certificates. We are also able to provide early reviews of your DMLC Part II in order to facilitate the inspection process on board.

In addition we provide a range of training courses to help you understand the requirements of the Convention and how to implement them. These courses can be tailored to suit your specific needs.

 [1]  Different requirements may apply to vessels below 500 grt.

 [2] Further detail available in via Class Direct or on request.