The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) applies when a UK commercial vessel owner wishes to undertake an international yoyage, that is a passage to a country other than the UK. It also defines that all commercial operations in a country other than the UK constitutes an international voyage. This does not apply to bareboat charter where there is no paid crew involvement.

The 2006 Maritime Labour Convention came into force internationally on the 20th August 2013. The MLC consolidates and updates over 60 maritime labour instruments adopted by the International Labour Organization (ILO). It introduces some new standards, as well as consolidating and updating existing requirements.

The MLC applies to all ships operating commercially, other than fishing vessels and ships of traditional build. It does not apply to warships or naval auxiliaries. It applies standards for seafarers living and working conditions in respect of vessels which were not previously covered by international conventions. The MLC provides a comprehensive set of global maritime standards for all seafarers on vessels to which the MLC applies.

It is the vessels owner/managers responsibility to ensure that they can demonstrate that their ship is compliant with the MLC. Medusa Marine is qualified by the MCA Certifying Authority to undertake surveys of vessels and operators and the crew qualifications and practices.

More information and advice on how to obtain proof of compliance is here