Training of Trainers and Maritime Inspectors on the application of the MLC, 2006
Photo © ILO/M. Crozet
Training of Trainers and Maritime Inspectors on the application of the MLC, 2006
7 April–9 May 2025
The course is available in English
Introduction to the course
Working and living conditions of seafarers have always been of special concern to the International Labour Organization (ILO). In February 2006 the Maritime Labour Convention, (MLC, 2006) was adopted by government, employer and worker representatives at a special ILO International Labour Conference to provide international standards for the world's first global industry. Widely known as the "seafarers' bill of rights" it is unique in its effect on both seafarers and quality ship owners. This comprehensive Convention sets out in one place seafarers' rights to decent conditions of work on almost every aspect of their working and living conditions including, among others, minimum age, employment agreements, hours of work or rest, payment of wages, paid annual leave, repatriation at the end of contract, onboard medical care, seafarers' complaint handling and so on. It was designed to be applicable at global level, easy to understand, updatable and enforced. The MLC, 2006 as amended is the "fourth pillar" of the international regulatory regime for quality shipping, complementing the key Conventions of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It also contains important compliance and enforcement components based on flag State inspection and for port State control. In particular, the role of shipowners and seafarers in the enforcement process is very important. Since its entry into force in 2013, the MLC, 2006 as amended, can by all be considered a success. As of 2024, n. 105 member states have ratified the Convention, covering 96,6 percent of the tonnage shipped. Despite the high level of ratification challenges remain in the concrete application of the rights and obligations provided for the Convention. In this context, the maritime labour inspectors play and important role in the respect of the MLC, 2006 application. The proper application of labour legislation depends on an effective labour inspectorate. Labour inspectors examine how national labour standards are applied in the workplace and advise employers and workers on how to improve the application of national law in such areas as working time, wages, occupational safety and health, and child labour. In addition, labour inspectors bring to the notice of national authorities gaps and defects in national law. They play an important role in ensuring that labour law is applied equally to all employers and workers.
Who attends this course?
Labour inspectors with experience of maritime inspection (maritime labour inspectors),trainers of maritime inspectors, surveyors from classification societies that carry out maritime labour inspections, representatives of seafarers' and shipowners' organizations.
Why should I join?
The online course aims to share information and good practices in the implementation of MLC 2006 as amended, in order to:
- promote a sound application of the Convention at national and regional level;
- strengthen the capacity of Competent Authorities to implement the MLC, 2006 by training a core group of inspectors and trainers with a good level of understanding of the Convention and of inspection techniques;
- enhance cooperation and networking.
What will I gain from the course?
At the end of the online course, participants should be able to:
- demonstrate a good level of understanding of the MLC, 2006 as amended and explain its key concepts, related implications and practical application in the professional activity of maritime labour inspectors;
- apply effectively the ILO Guidelines for Flag State inspections and Port State Control carrying out inspections under the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006;
- implement practical skills to detect deficiencies;
- apply active learning methods in running workshops for maritime labour inspectors;
- adapt the training materials to their own national laws and organize, facilitate, and evaluate training activities for maritime labour inspectors in their own country
What topics does this course cover?
- The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 and its Amendments:
- Review of the relevant Articles,
- Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship,
- Conditions of employment,
- Accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering,
- Health protection, medical care, welfare and social security protection,
- Compliance (including on-board and onshore complaint procedures).
- Certification and inspection systems under the MLC, 2006;
- Factors to be inspected: working/living conditions (facilities, and equipment, ventilation, lighting, food and catering - seafarers’ minimum age, hours of work or rest, training, wages, medical care, occupational safety and health);
- Training methodology and interactive strategies and presentation skills.
How is the course organized?
The blended training course will be structured as follows:
- Self-paced learning PHASE: from 13 to 31 May 2024. This phase will be a distance on the ITCILO E-Campus and will require approximately 5 hours each week.
- Face-to face training (at the ITCILO Campus) PHASE: from 03 to 07 June 2024.
Participants will have access to:
a. the self-paced learning Modules (including exercises, case studies and evaluation);
b. a dedicated Forum;
c. the E –Library;
d. no. 2 live thematic Webinars in ZOOM platform.
What is the language of the course?
The course is offered in English. A good command of the working language is required.
What methods and materials will be used?
Throughout the programme, active learning methods will allow the participants to step back from their daily professional life and reflect on recent case studies.
Who are the resource persons?
Experts from the International Labour Office and trainers from the ITCILO.
