Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

MLC Inspection (ILO)

Share this service

MLC Inspections: Safeguarding Seafarers’ Rights & Upholding Maritime Standards

The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, often referred to as the ‘Seafarers’ Bill of Rights’, is a landmark international treaty adopted by the International Labour Organization (ILO). It establishes a comprehensive framework of minimum standards for seafarers’ working and living conditions, aiming to ensure decent work for all those who ply the world’s oceans.

At Ship Inspect UK, we recognise the vital role of MLC inspections in upholding these standards and safeguarding the welfare of seafarers. Let’s explore what MLC inspections entail and why they are crucial for the maritime industry.

What are MLC Inspections?

MLC inspections are comprehensive assessments carried out on ships to verify compliance with the requirements of the MLC. These inspections cover a wide range of areas, including:

  • Minimum age: Ensuring that no one under the minimum age is employed on board.
  • Medical fitness: Verifying that seafarers are medically fit to perform their duties.
  • Seafarers’ employment agreements: Checking that contracts comply with MLC standards.
  • Wages: Ensuring prompt and full payment of wages.
  • Working hours: Monitoring compliance with limits on working hours and rest periods.
  • Accommodation: Assessing the quality and suitability of living quarters.
  • Food and catering: Ensuring adequate provision of food and drinking water.
  • Health and safety: Inspecting occupational safety and health measures.
  • On-board complaints procedures: Verifying the existence of effective complaint mechanisms.
  • Medical care: Ensuring access to medical care on board and ashore.
  • Repatriation: Checking arrangements for repatriation at the end of employment.

Who Conducts MLC Inspections?

MLC inspections can be carried out by:

  • Flag State: The country where the ship is registered.
  • Port State: The country where the ship is visiting.
  • Recognised Organisations: Classification societies authorised by flag States.

Why are MLC Inspections Important?

MLC inspections serve several critical purposes:

  • Protecting seafarers’ rights: They ensure that seafarers are treated fairly and with dignity, enjoying decent working and living conditions.
  • Promoting fair competition: They help to create a level playing field for shipowners, preventing unfair practices based on substandard labour conditions.
  • Enhancing safety: By ensuring adequate rest periods, health and safety measures, and medical care, MLC inspections contribute to safer maritime operations.
  • Upholding international standards: They ensure compliance with a globally recognised framework of maritime labour standards.

Ship Inspect UK & MLC Inspections

At Ship Inspect UK, our team of experienced marine surveyors is well-versed in MLC requirements and inspection procedures. We can assist shipowners and operators in ensuring compliance, mitigating risks, and fostering a safe and fair working environment for their crews.

Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about our MLC inspection services and how we can help you uphold the highest standards of maritime labour practice.

Learn more about our services. We offer a comprehensive range of ship inspection and consultancy solutions to meet your specific needs.

Get your FREE Risk Report. Take a proactive approach to risk management and ensure the safety and well-being of your crew.

Is your ship at risk?

Calculate your ships risk rating for FREE and see next steps for compliance.

Looking for maritime services?

If your ship inspection is due, book using the form below or view all our full service offering for more information.

Book an inspection

0 / 180