STCW

The STCW Convention (originally 1978, comprehensively amended as STCW Manila 2010) sets the minimum training, certification and watchkeeping standards for seafarers on merchant ships engaged in international voyages.

STCW covers every officer rank (master, chief officer, second/third officer, chief engineer, etc.) and ratings, prescribing required theoretical training, practical experience (sea time), medical fitness, English proficiency, and revalidation requirements (typically every 5 years). Specialised certificates exist for tankers, ro-ro passenger ships, ECDIS, advanced fire fighting, GMDSS, medical first aid and others.

Crew management software tracks each crew member's STCW certificates, flags expiring credentials, manages refresher training, and ensures no crew member sails without valid documentation.