Source: BIMCOPublished 1 March 2026STCW & Training Regulation Updates
Education & Training News

HTW 12: IMO Advances Seafarer Training and Launches New Fatigue Initiative

Progress on the STCW review, alternative-fuel training guidelines and a new workstream on fatigue and hours of rest.

HTW 12: IMO Advances Seafarer Training and Launches New Fatigue Initiative

The IMO's twelfth session of the Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping sub-committee advanced work on the STCW review while also progressing guidelines for training on alternative fuels. The session additionally launched a new workstream specifically addressing seafarer fatigue and hours of rest.

These developments reflect the IMO's recognition that training frameworks must evolve alongside new fuel technologies while also addressing long-standing concerns about seafarer wellbeing and operational safety linked to fatigue.

LIMA

LIMA Expert Insight

The new fatigue workstream signals potential regulatory changes to hours-of-rest requirements that could directly affect crewing models and training on fatigue management. Training providers should monitor these developments closely as alternative-fuel training guidelines will soon translate into concrete curriculum requirements.

Sources and references

BIMCO — BIMCO

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