The maritime industry is on the cusp of a significant shift, as the IMO’s Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW) has just agreed on draft interim generic guidelines for training seafarers working on ships powered by alternative fuels and new technologies. This move, agreed upon during their meeting in London from February 10 to 14, is a clear signal that the industry is gearing up for a future where traditional fuels may no longer be the norm. The draft guidelines, set to be submitted to the Maritime Safety Committee for approval in June 2025, are a double-edged sword: they provide a broad, industry-wide framework while also allowing for specific guidelines tailored to individual fuels and technologies.
The Sub-Committee has made it clear that these guidelines are not just about ticking boxes; they’re about ensuring that seafarers are equipped to handle the unique challenges posed by alternative fuels. As the industry moves towards a greener future, the need for specialized training becomes paramount. The Sub-Committee has already begun developing specific training guidelines for seafarers working on methyl/ethyl alcohol-fueled ships, with a Correspondence Group tasked with creating interim guidelines for a range of alternative fuels and technologies. This includes everything from ammonia and hydrogen to LPG and battery power.
The Correspondence Group’s work is far from trivial. They’re tasked with developing interim guidelines for training seafarers, including individual sets of guidelines for:• the use of methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel;• the use of ammonia as fuel;• hydrogen fuel cell powered ships;• the use of LPG as fuel;• the use of hydrogen as fuel; and• battery powered ships.These guidelines will take into account existing interim safety guidelines, ensuring that safety remains at the forefront of this transition.
The Sub-Committee also addressed several other matters, including the completion of Phase 1 of the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code, with a work plan agreed for Phase 2. They also discussed a draft MSC resolution on the accessibility of information on seafarer medical certificates and recognized medical practitioners, as well as the validation of revised model courses for seafarer training and reports on fraudulent certificates.
This news is a game-changer for the maritime industry. It signals a clear commitment to preparing seafarers for a future where alternative fuels and new technologies are the norm. The industry is not just paying lip service to sustainability; it’s rolling up its sleeves and getting to work. This move will likely accelerate the adoption of alternative fuels, as seafarers become more comfortable and competent in handling these new technologies. It also sets a precedent for other industries grappling with similar transitions, showing that with the right training and guidelines, even the most daunting challenges can be tackled head-on. The ball is now in the court of the Maritime Safety Committee, and the industry is watching with bated breath.