Overview
The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended, consolidates international standards for seafarers' working and living conditions into one instrument. It entered into force on 20 August 2013 and continues to evolve through amendments.
For maritime professionals, the useful question is not only “what does the term mean?” but “what evidence would show that the work was performed properly?” This guide therefore focuses on the practical link between the governing framework, onboard or cargo-side activity, and the records a competent professional would expect to see.
Key Points to Understand
IMT conceptual illustration for learning purposes; not an official regulatory flowchart.
Practical Process
The exact method must always be adapted to the vessel, cargo, company procedures, local rules and the scope of the assignment. A disciplined sequence helps keep evidence complete and prevents the work from drifting away from its objective.
- Identify which MLC requirements apply to the ship and seafarers.
- Map company procedures and records to the five-title structure.
- Keep employment, hours, accommodation, medical/welfare and complaint evidence current.
- Maintain certification/declaration evidence where applicable.
- Use onboard checks and audits to identify gaps before external inspection.
- Track amendment entry-into-force dates.
Common Mistakes
Most weak inspections, surveys and audits do not fail because the professional forgot a complicated formula. They fail because scope, evidence or follow-up became unclear. Watch especially for:
- Using the original 2006 text without checking amendments.
- Treating welfare requirements as HR matters disconnected from shipboard compliance.
- Assuming a certificate means daily practices automatically comply.
Practical Checklist
This is an IMT working checklist, not a substitute for the applicable convention, code, flag requirement, port rule, company procedure or contractual instruction.
- Applicable amendments
- Employment records
- Hours/work-rest evidence
- Accommodation/food
- Health/welfare
- Complaints
- Certification
- Onboard implementation
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View the Training Programme →Frequently Asked Questions
When did MLC 2006 enter into force?
20 August 2013.
Are the 2025 MLC amendments already in force?
No. ILO NORMLEX lists them as not yet in force, with an expected entry-into-force date of 23 December 2027.
What are the five main MLC titles?
Minimum requirements; conditions of employment; accommodation/recreational facilities/food and catering; health protection/medical care/welfare/social security; and compliance/enforcement.
Authoritative Sources
Regulatory statements in this guide are grounded in the following primary or official sources. Operational recommendations are presented as IMT practical guidance.
International Maritime Training (IMT) is an independent training provider. This educational guide is not issued by, affiliated with, or endorsed by IMO, ILO, MPA Singapore, or any other authority referenced above.