STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) is the foundation of every maritime career. Whether you are a cadet just starting out or a senior officer managing your renewals, understanding the STCW framework saves you time, money, and stress.

What is STCW?

The STCW Convention was adopted by IMO in 1978 and has been amended several times, most significantly in 2010 (the Manila Amendments). It sets qualification standards for masters, officers, and watchkeeping personnel on commercial vessels.

Certificate structure

Basic Safety Training (BST)

Required for everyone going to sea. Four modules:

1. Personal Survival Techniques — life rafts, survival suits, signaling
2. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting — using extinguishers, breathing apparatus, team firefighting
3. Elementary First Aid — CPR, wound care, emergency procedures
4. Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities — shipboard hazards, emergency procedures, pollution prevention

Renewal: every 5 years. Most training centers offer refresher courses of 2-3 days.

Security Awareness (ISPS)