Review of the Code of Safe Working Practices (COSWP) for Merchant Seafarers

Our Ref: HSR/2/15
Head Office Circular: NP/126/22
27th May 2022
To: The Secretary
ALL SHIPPING BRANCHES
REGIONAL COUNCILS

Dear Colleague,

REVIEW OF THE CODE OF SAFE WORKING PRACTICES (COSWP) FOR MERCHANT SEAFARERS

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) have offered the opportunity for members of the shipping industry to take part in the fundamental review and redevelopment of COSWP.

There is a requirement for all UK Flagged vessels to have access to the COSWP on board and it is nationally recognised as a standard of guidance and best practice. It is therefore important to ensure there is representation from all areas of the shipping industry that utilise COSWP. This includes (but is not limited to) seafarers (all ranks), shoreside managers and training providers.

This review will lead to a new COSWP edition and it is the MCA’s intention to ensure it retains its usefulness and creditability but with improved functionality and accessibility. Focus groups will be held, where participants will be asked to comment on examples of potential new styles for COSWP and provide any feedback on improvements that could be made.

Dates that the MCA will be holding focus group meetings are:

14th July - online via MS Teams
15th July - at the MCA’s offices in Southampton

Additional dates and times may be provided depending on participants’ availability and feedback received.

If you would like to join one of these sessions, then please contact RMT Health and Safety Officer Jonathan Havard at j.havard@rmt.org.uk.

Please also get in touch if you have comments on COSWP but are unable to attend any of the focus groups.

Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of relevant members.

Yours sincerely

Michael Lynch
General Secretary