The Paris MOU and Tokyo MOU have announced a joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on Crew Wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEA). This campaign, set to run from September 1 to November 30, 2024, aims to verify compliance with MLC requirements. It focuses on the basic rights of seafarers, including accurate information and contracts. The maritime industry must prepare for this upcoming paris mou cic 2024 to ensure crew wages compliance and proper seafarer agreements are in place.
The CIC will focus on ship owners' responsibility to ensure seafarers' basic rights onboard in accordance with the MLC. A 10-question checklist has been developed to facilitate preparation for the inspection. It covers topics such as timely payment of wages, proper documentation of Seafarers' Employment Agreements (SEA), and financial security certificates. Deficiencies in compliance may lead to ISM-related deficiencies and potential detention, making it crucial for the maritime industry to prioritize compliance in advance of the inspection period.
To aid in preparing for paris mou inspection, DNV is offering a complimentary webinar on the CIC on August 20, 2024. They will also include the additional questionnaire for the CIC in their PSC Planner by the end of August 2024. It is recommended that industry professionals participate in the webinar and utilize DNV's PSC Planner to ensure their vessels are adequately prepared for the upcoming inspection campaign. By taking proactive steps to ensure compliance with crew wages and seafarer agreements, the maritime industry can demonstrate its commitment to the well-being and basic rights of its seafarers.
Key Takeaways
Paris MOU and Tokyo MOU will conduct a joint CIC on Crew Wages and SEA under MLC, 2006 from September 1 to November 30, 2024.
The campaign aims to verify compliance with MLC requirements regarding seafarers' basic rights, accurate information, and contracts.
A 10-question checklist has been developed to facilitate preparation for the inspection, covering topics such as timely wage payment and proper SEA documentation.
Deficiencies in compliance may lead to ISM-related deficiencies and potential detention.
DNV offers a complimentary webinar on the CIC and will include the additional questionnaire in their PSC Planner to aid in preparation.
Understanding the Paris MOU CIC 2024
The Paris Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Port State Control is gearing up for a concentrated inspection campaign (CIC) in 2024. It will focus on crew wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEAs) under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006). This joint effort with the Tokyo MoU aims to uphold the rights and working conditions of seafarers.
Overview of the Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC)
The CIC is set to run from September 1 to November 30, 2024, during routine Port State Control (PSC) inspections. The campaign questionnaire, released on August 1, 2024, includes 10 questions. These questions cover various aspects of crew wages and SEAs. Each ship will face only one inspection under this CIC during the campaign.
Key Focus Areas: Crew Wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements
The CIC's main focus is on ensuring seafarers receive accurate information and contracts. It also aims to verify that wage payments align with the SEA and any applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Seafarers' wages must meet the minimum wage standards set by national laws and regulations.
Deficiency Type | Rank Among Top 20 Deficiencies |
SEA-related deficiencies | 3rd |
SEA and wages (among MLC Title 2 detainable deficiencies) | 1st and 2nd |
Participating MoUs and Inspection Period
The Paris MoU, founded in 1982 with 28 member countries, and the Tokyo MoU, established in 1993 with 22 full members, are conducting this campaign together. The inspection period spans from September to November 2024. Port State Control verifies compliance with international rules on safety, pollution prevention, and seafarers' living and working conditions for visiting foreign ships.
If non-conformities are found during the CIC, the port State may take various actions. These can range from recording a deficiency and instructing the master to rectify it within a specified period to detaining the ship until serious deficiencies are corrected. The campaign's results will be analyzed, and findings will be presented to the governing bodies of both MoUs. They may then be submitted to the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Importance of Compliance with MLC, 2006
Ensuring compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) is crucial for protecting seafarers' rights and their well-being. The MLC, 2006 establishes detailed standards for seafarers' living and working conditions. This includes employment agreements, timely wage payments, and adequate rest hours.
Recent inspection results underscore the importance of MLC compliance. In the Paris MOU inspection results for 2021-2023, MLC violations made up over 20% of all deficiencies. They also accounted for 10% of all detainable deficiencies reported. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority's MLC Annual Report 2023 revealed that 14 of the 25 ships banned from Australian waters since 2018 faced serious breaches. These breaches included underpayment of wages and inadequate working conditions.
Ensuring Basic Rights of Seafarers
The MLC, 2006 aims to safeguard seafarers' rights. This includes a safe workplace, fair employment terms, and decent living and working conditions. Regulation 2.1 of the MLC requires all seafarers to have a signed Seafarers' Employment Agreement (SEA) with specific provisions. Regulation 2.2 mandates regular and full payment as per employment agreements, with detailed monthly wage statements and no unauthorized deductions.
Shipowners must ensure seafarers have access to their SEAs. They must also sign any amendments and confirm that positions match those in the SEAs. All required information must be included in the agreements. Failure to comply can result in deficiencies during inspections and potential vessel detention.
Link Between MLC Compliance and Safety Management System (SMS)
Non-compliance with MLC requirements can severely impact a company's Safety Management System (SMS). Deficiencies in crew training, maintenance, and operations can lead to ISM-related deficiencies. These can result in vessel detention, with ISM compliance being a top reason for detentions in recent years.
Poor working conditions and wage payment concerns can affect seafarer health and ship safety. It is vital to address these issues promptly. Shipowners should review crew contracts and management systems to ensure MLC compliance. This is essential for upcoming inspections, such as the joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) by Tokyo and Paris MOUs in 2024. The focus will be on crew wages and seafarer rights and agreements.
Common Deficiencies Related to Crew Wages
The maritime industry is gearing up for the Paris MOU Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) 2024. It's essential to tackle common wage issues that could violate the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006). These problems can harm both seafarers and shipowners, leading to vessel detentions and hefty fines.
One major issue is not paying wages monthly as the MLC, 2006 requires. Shipowners and managers must ensure timely and regular wage payments. This is crucial to avoid non-compliance.
Lack of Wage Details in Seafarer Employment Agreement (SEA)
Another widespread problem is missing wage details in the Seafarer Employment Agreement (SEA). The SEA must clearly state the seafarer's wages, including basic pay, overtime, and allowances. Without these details, wage disputes can arise.
Discrepancies Between Paid Wages and SEA or Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)
Wage discrepancies between what's paid and what's agreed upon in the SEA or Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) also pose a risk. Shipowners must ensure wages match the agreed terms to prevent non-compliance.
Absence of Monthly Wage Accounts for Seafarers
Seafarers are entitled to a monthly wage account showing their earnings and any deductions. Without these accounts, transparency is lacking, making it hard for seafarers to verify their payments. Shipowners must provide detailed monthly wage accounts to comply with the MLC, 2006.
To tackle these wage issues, shipowners and managers need to set up reliable systems for tracking wages. Regular audits are necessary to spot and fix any discrepancies. By addressing these problems, the maritime industry can protect seafarers' rights and avoid penalties during the Paris MOU CIC 2024.
Ensuring Compliance with Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEAs)
Ensuring seafarer employment agreement compliance is vital for the rights and well-being of seafarers. It also ensures smooth vessel operations. The Paris MoU PSC Inspection Results (2021-01 to 2024-06) show SEAs rank third among top deficiencies. SEAs and wages are the top two detainable deficiencies under MLC Title 2 - Conditions of Employment.
Both the seafarer and the shipowner or their representative must sign the original SEA copies. These copies must be available for inspection by the seafarer and the master. The SEA must be in English and include all required elements as specified in the MLC, 2006 Standard A2.1.
The joint Tokyo and Paris MoUs are planning a Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on crew wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements under MLC from September to November 2024. Port State Control Officers will use a questionnaire to assess compliance with MLC requirements. Any non-conformities identified during the inspection can range from recording deficiencies to detaining the ship, depending on the severity.
To prepare for the CIC, masters and shipowners should strictly adhere to MLC 2006 requirements, focusing on Seafarer Employment Agreements. This includes ensuring that:
Seafarers' wages are paid at intervals not exceeding one month, according to their SEA or relevant Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)
All deductions in the wage bill align with national standards, the SEA, and the CBA, with no unauthorized deductions for items like travel expenses
Overtime payments to the crew are calculated accurately, and records of overtime worked are maintained and confirmed by each crew member monthly
Valid certificates or documentary evidence of financial security, such as for repatriation and compensation in the event of death or long-term disability, are available on board, in accordance with MLC 2006 standards
By prioritizing seafarer employment agreement compliance and ensuring all required documents are in order, shipowners and masters can protect their crews' rights. This minimizes the risk of deficiencies or detentions during the upcoming Concentrated Inspection Campaign.
Paris MoU CIC 2024 Crew Wages Compliance Seafarer Agreements
The Paris MoU Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) in 2024 will focus on crew wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEAs) under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006. It will run from September 1st to November 30th, 2024. The goal is to ensure ships comply with these critical requirements during inspections. Shipowners and managers must take proactive steps to meet these standards.
Preparing Original SEAs for Inspection
Ensuring original copies of SEAs are available for inspection is key for the Paris MoU CIC. These agreements are crucial for recording the seafarer-shipowner contract. They detail the seafarer's role, monthly pay, and service duration.
Ensuring SEAs are Available in English
It's also essential that SEAs are in English. English is the primary language in international maritime. Having SEAs in English ensures smooth communication during inspections. This makes it easier for port State control officers to review and verify the agreements.
Verifying SEAs Include All Required Elements Under MLC, 2006
Shipowners and managers must verify that SEAs include all MLC, 2006 elements. These include the seafarer's name, position, monthly wage, and agreement duration. They also need to include provisions for repatriation.
Missing any of these elements can lead to deficiencies. This could result in detentions or penalties.
Confirming SEA Particulars Comply with MLC, 2006 Requirements
Shipowners and managers must also confirm that SEA particulars comply with MLC, 2006. For example, service periods should not exceed 12 months. Financial security for repatriation must also be in place.
Deficiency Category | Rank in Paris MoU Top 20 Deficiencies (Jan 2021 - Jun 2024) |
SEA-related deficiencies | 3rd |
SEA and wages (among MLC Title 2 detainable deficiencies) | 1st and 2nd |
By preparing original SEAs, ensuring they're in English, and verifying all elements, shipowners can prepare for the Paris MoU CIC 2024. These steps help avoid deficiencies and detentions. They also show a commitment to seafarer rights and well-being.
Financial Security Requirements for Repatriation and Compensation
The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, mandates strict financial security for seafarers' repatriation and compensation in case of death or long-term disability. Shipowners must present written proof of this financial security. This proof must include the details outlined in Appendix A4-I of the MLC, 2006.
The joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) by the Paris and Tokyo Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on Port State Control will run from 1 September to 30 November 2024. It will focus on crew wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEA) under the MLC. The CIC questionnaire includes 10 questions, with a special emphasis on financial security for death, long-term disability, and repatriation, as seen in questions Q10a/b.
Importance of Maintaining Valid Certificates on Board
It is crucial to keep valid certificates of financial security on board at all times. These certificates are essential for proving compliance with the MLC's financial security standards during Port State Control (PSC) inspections. Non-compliance during the CIC can result in various penalties, from deficiency notices to the detention of the ship until serious issues are fixed.
The following table outlines the key financial security requirements for repatriation and compensation:
Requirement | Description |
Repatriation | Financial security to cover costs of repatriation in case of abandonment |
Death | Compensation in the event of a seafarer's death while employed on the ship |
Long-term Disability | Compensation for long-term disability due to an occupational injury, illness, or hazard |
Ensuring Certificates are Prominently Displayed
It is also vital to display these certificates in a clear and accessible place on board. This visibility enhances transparency and boosts crew confidence in their rights and the shipowner's adherence to financial security standards.
Shipowners, managers, and operators must ensure their vessels are fully prepared for the upcoming CIC inspections. They should have all necessary documentation readily available. Any discrepancies in MLC compliance should be immediately reported to the Flag Administration and ship owner for swift resolution.
Best Practices for Successful CIC Preparation
The maritime industry is preparing for the Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on Crew Wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements. Shipowners and managers must adopt best practices for CIC preparation. It's essential to ensure all information about working arrangements and payments is current and accessible to crew members.
Masters need to be well-informed about the upcoming CIC and the documents expected during inspections. This proactive approach aids in timely preparation and reduces the risk of non-compliance. Updating the SMS is crucial to align shipboard practices with the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC), 2006 requirements.
Shipowners and managers should participate in webinars on CIC preparation. These webinars offer valuable insights, practical tips, and the chance to interact with industry experts. Using tools like DNV's PSC Planner also aids in preparing for Port State Control (PSC) inspections.
"Proper preparation is the key to success during the upcoming CIC on Crew Wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements. By adopting best practices and leveraging available resources, shipowners and managers can ensure compliance and minimize the risk of detentions."
Key areas to focus on during CIC preparation include:
Ensuring seafarer certification documents, such as CoC, CoP, endorsements, and medical certificates, are up-to-date and readily available
Verifying compliance with safe manning requirements and international provisions (SOLAS, STCW)
Maintaining accurate records of daily hours of rest and ensuring compliance with rest period regulations
Addressing potential deficiency areas, such as special training requirements, basic training evidence, and unfamiliarity with essential shipboard operations
By proactively addressing these areas and staying vigilant, the maritime industry can successfully navigate the CIC. This demonstrates its commitment to the welfare and fair treatment of seafarers.
Training and Familiarization of Crew Members
Proper crew training and familiarization are crucial for a successful Paris MOU Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) in 2024. The CIC on STCW conducted by Paris and Tokyo MoUs in 2022 revealed that 13.57% of inspections resulted in 1,041 deficiencies found on 802 ships. The highest number of deficiencies were in records of rest (27.76%), voyage or passage plan (24.30%), and crew familiarization with emergency systems (10.95%).
To ensure compliance and avoid detention, shipping companies must prioritize crew training familiarization. They should focus on areas with the highest deficiencies. The upcoming CIC on crew wages and seafarer agreements will likely follow a similar pattern, with inspectors closely examining these aspects.
Ensuring Master and Officers Understand Their Duties
The master and officers play a critical role in maintaining compliance with MLC, 2006 requirements. They should be well-versed in their duties related to crew wages and seafarer agreements. This includes ensuring timely and accurate payment of wages, maintaining detailed wage accounts for each seafarer, verifying that seafarer employment agreements (SEAs) include all required elements under MLC, 2006, and confirming SEA particulars comply with MLC, 2006 requirements.
Familiarizing Crew with the CIC Questionnaire
Crew members should be familiarized with the CIC questionnaire to ensure they can provide accurate information during the inspection. The following table highlights key areas of focus and recommended actions:
Area of Focus | Recommended Action |
Wages paid monthly | Ensure wages are paid on time and at least monthly |
Wage details in SEA | Include comprehensive wage information in SEAs |
Wages match SEA or CBA | Verify paid wages align with SEA or collective bargaining agreement |
Monthly wage accounts | Provide each seafarer with a monthly wage account |
By focusing on master officer duties and cic questionnaire familiarity through targeted crew training familiarization, shipping companies can significantly improve their chances of a successful Paris MOU CIC 2024 inspection. Investing in crew education and preparedness is essential for maintaining compliance and ensuring the fair treatment of seafarers.
Conclusion
As the maritime industry gears up for the Paris MOU CIC 2024, it's vital for shipowners, managers, and crew to act now. They must ensure compliance with MLC 2006 requirements. This includes keeping accurate records, providing proper training, and displaying valid financial security certificates. Doing so will help vessels pass the Concentrated Inspection Campaign without issues.
The CIC questionnaire has eleven questions, and any "No" answer could lead to detention. Inspections might be more thorough if certain scenarios under Standard A5.2.1 of the MLC, 2006 are found. Seafarer Employment Agreements must be complete, accessible, and not expired without proof of extension. Wages should be paid monthly, with compliant deductions and exchange rates. Overtime must be calculated and confirmed by crew members.
To succeed in the Paris MOU CIC 2024, the maritime industry must focus on crew wages and seafarer agreements. Addressing common issues like unpaid wages and discrepancies in SEAs is key. This shows commitment to seafarer welfare and helps avoid penalties. Crew members must also be familiar with the CIC questionnaire and their roles.
The maritime industry must stay alert and flexible to new regulations and campaigns. Future CICs will cover areas like Ballast Water Management (2025) and Cargo Securing (2026). Focused Inspection Campaigns (FICs) will focus on specific areas like Pilot Transfer Arrangements and Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS). By keeping up with training and compliance, the industry can navigate regulatory hurdles safely and efficiently.
FAQ
What is the Paris MOU CIC 2024 focusing on?
The Paris MOU Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) 2024 will concentrate on crew wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEA) under the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006). It aims to ensure compliance with MLC requirements. This includes verifying the basic rights of seafarers, such as accurate information and contracts.
When will the Paris MOU CIC 2024 be conducted?
The Paris MOU CIC 2024 will take place during routine Port State Control (PSC) inspections from September 1 to November 30, 2024. The CIC questionnaire will be available on August 1, 2024. It will contain 10 questions focusing on crew wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEA) under the MLC, 2006.
What are the common deficiencies related to crew wages?
Common issues with crew wages include not being paid monthly and lack of wage details in the Seafarer Employment Agreement (SEA). There may also be discrepancies between paid wages and the SEA or Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Another issue is the absence of monthly wage accounts for seafarers.
How can shipowners and managers ensure compliance with Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEAs)?
Shipowners and managers must ensure original copies of SEAs are available for inspection and in English. They need to verify that SEAs include all required elements under MLC, 2006. This includes the seafarer's full name, date of birth, position, and monthly wage. The particulars in the SEA must also comply with MLC, 2006 requirements.
What financial security requirements must be met for repatriation and compensation?
Shipowners must provide written evidence of financial security for repatriation and compensation. This evidence should include the information described in Appendix A4-I of the MLC, 2006. Valid certificates must be maintained on board and displayed prominently where they are easily accessible to seafarers.
How can shipowners and managers successfully prepare for the Paris MOU CIC 2024?
To prepare for the CIC, ensure all required information about working arrangements and payments is up-to-date and accessible to crew members. Inform the master about the planned CIC and the documents expected during the inspection. Update the Safety Management System (SMS) as needed. Participating in webinars and using tools like DNV's PSC Planner can also aid in preparation.
What is the importance of training and familiarization of crew members for the CIC?
Training and familiarization of crew members are crucial for a successful CIC inspection. The master and officers should be well-versed in their duties and the supplementary checklist. Crew members should be familiar with the CIC questionnaire to provide accurate information during the inspection.
Source Links
CiC on Crew Wages and Seafarer Employment Agreement: A best practice guide - https://safety4sea.com/cm-cic-on-crew-wages-and-seafarer-employment-agreement-a-best-practice-guide/
PSC - The CIC 2024 questionnaire is now available, plus update on other campaigns - https://www.dnv.com/news/the-cic-2024-questionnaire-is-now-available-plus-updates-on-other-campaigns/
LP 20/2024 CIC 2024 on Crew Wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements - https://www.chinapandi.com/index.php/en/loss-prevention-menu-en/loss-prevention-content-en/5952-lp-20-2024-cic-2024-on-crew-wages-and-seafarer-employment-agreements
Concentrated inspection campaign on crew wages | Britannia P&I - https://britanniapandi.com/2024/08/concentrated-inspection-campaign-on-crew-wages-and-seafarer-employment-agreements-mlc-2006/
PDF - https://parismou.org/system/files/2024-08/Paris MoU Press release on 2024 CIC on Crew Wages and Seafarer Employment Agreements (MLC, 2006).pdf
Port state to focus on fair employment conditions - https://gard.no/insights/port-state-to-focus-on-fair-employment-conditions/
🚢 2022 Amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) coming into force on 23 december 2024 🌐 - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/2022-amendments-maritime-labour-convention-mlc-2006-coming-contreras-khbrf
Concentrated Inspection Campaign Paris MOU asof 1 sept 2024 - https://www.roodbovengroen.com/en/concentrated-inspection-campaign-paris-mou/
PDF - https://ww2.eagle.org/content/dam/eagle/rules-and-resources/Flag-and-Port-State-Information/PSC Quarterly Report Q2 2024.pdf
Turning the trend – Update of PSC Top 18 items - https://www.dnv.com/news/turning-the-trend-update-of-psc-top-18-items-246057/
What operators should expect during Port State Control (PSC) inspections? - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-operators-should-expect-during-port-state-control-psc-inspections-hz84c?trk=organization_guest_main-feed-card_feed-article-content
Concentrated inspection campaign (CIC) by Tokyo and the Paris MoU on Crew Wages and Seafarer’s Employment Agreement (MLC) beginning 1 September 2024 and ending on 30 November 2024. - https://www.irclass.org/technical-circulars/concentrated-inspection-campaign-cic-by-tokyo-and-the-paris-mou-on-crew-wages-and-seafarer-s-employment-agreement-mlc-beginning-1-september-2024-and-ending-on-30-november-2024/
Port State Control - Türk Loydu - https://www.turkloydu.org/en-us/publications/port-state-control.aspx
PDF - https://pyccayman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/DNV_TecRegNews_No_20_2024_web_L04.pdf
CLASS SURVEYS - https://www.isclass.com/download/No.7.R0 - PSC CIC 2024 on Crew Wages and SEAs (EN).pdf
PDF - https://www.irclass.org/media/7399/technical-circular-no012.pdf
G-B INTERNATIONAL - https://gbisr.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GSR-OFC-MAR-NOT-04-2024-MOU-PSC-CIC-MLC-FINAL-26-08-24.pdf
New PSC Concentrated Inspection Campaign on STCW announced - https://safety4sea.com/cm-new-psc-concentrated-inspection-campaign-on-stcw-announced/
PSC Concentrated Inspection Campaign starting on 1 September - https://www.dnv.com/news/psc-concentrated-inspection-campaign-starting-on-1-september-227709/
New agreement ensures 6% pay raise for over 250,000 seafarers - https://safety4sea.com/new-agreement-ensures-6-pay-raise-for-over-250000-seafarers/
Report of 2022 CIC on STCW - https://www.tokyo-mou.org/doc/CIC on STCW 2022-Report-p.pdf
Press release - https://parismou.org/system/files/2024-05/Paris MoU - Press release PSCC57 - 21 May 2024.pdf
Paris MoU Says Fire Safety CIC Results were “Satisfactory” - https://www.marinelink.com/news/paris-mou-says-fire-safety-cic-results-513906
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