Section A-II/2 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of masters and chief mates on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more
Clasification Society 2023 - Version 9.37

Section A-II/2 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of masters and chief mates on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more

Standard of competence

1 Every candidate for certification as master or chief mate of ships of 500 gross tonnage or more shall be required to demonstrate the competence to undertake, at the management level, the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-II/2.

  2 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification is listed in column 2 of table A-II/2. This incorporates, expands and extends in depth the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-II/1 for officers in charge of a navigational watch.

  3 Bearing in mind that the master has ultimate responsibility for the safety and security of the ship, its passengers, crew and cargo, and for the protection of the marine environment against pollution by the ship, and that a chief mate shall be in a position to assume that responsibility at any time, assessment in these subjects shall be designed to test their ability to assimilate all available information that affects the safety and security of the ship, its passengers, crew or cargo, or the protection of the marine environment.

  4 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-II/2 shall be sufficient to enable the candidate to serve in the capacity of master or chief matefootnote.

  5 The level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency required under the different sections in column 2 of table A-II/2 may be varied according to whether the certificate is to be valid for ships of 3,000 gross tonnage or more or for ships of between 500 gross tonnage and 3,000 gross tonnage.

  6 Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall take into account the relevant requirements of this part and the guidance given in part B of this Code.

  7 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-II/2.

Near-coastal voyages

8 An Administration may issue a certificate restricted to service on ships engaged exclusively on near-coastal voyages and, for the issue of such a certificate, may exclude such subjects as are not applicable to the waters or ships concerned, bearing in mind the effect on the safety of all ships which may be operating in the same waters.

Tab A-II/2 Specification of minimum standard of competence for masters and chief mates on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more

Function: Navigation at the management level
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4
Competence Knowledge, understanding and proficiency Methods for demonstrating competence Criteria for evaluation competence
Plan a voyage and conduct navigation

 Voyage planning and navigation for all conditions by acceptable methods of plotting ocean tracks taking into account, e.g.:
  • .1 restricted waters
  • .2 meteorological conditions
  • .3 ice
  • .4 restricted visibility
  • .5 traffic separation schemes
  • .6 vessel traffic service (VTS) areas
  • .7 areas of extensive tidal effects


Routeing in accordance with the General Provisions on Ships’ Routeing

Reporting in accordance with the General principles for Ship Reporting Systems and with VTS procedures 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .3 approved laboratory equipment training


using: chart catalogues, charts, nautical publications and ship particulars 		The equipment, charts and nautical publications required for the voyage are enumerated and appropriate to the safe conduct of the voyage

The reasons for the planned route are supported by facts and statistical data obtained from relevant sources and publications

Positions, courses, distances and time calculations are correct within accepted accuracy standards for navigational equipment

All potential navigational hazards are accurately identified
Determine position and the accuracy of resultant position fix by any means Position determination in all conditions:

  • .1 by celestial observations
  • .2 by terrestrial observations, including the ability to use appropriate charts, notices to mariners and other publications to assess the accuracy of the resulting position fix
  • .3 using modern electronic navigational aids, with specific knowledge of their operating principles, limitations, sources of error, detection of misrepresentation of information and methods of correction to obtain accurate position fixing


Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .3 approved laboratory equipment training using:
  • .1 charts, nautical almanac, plotting sheets, chronometer, sextant and a calculator
  • .2 charts, nautical publications and navigational instruments (azimuth mirror, sextant, log, sounding equipment, compass) and manufacturers’ manuals
  • .3 radar, terrestrial electronic position-fixing systems, satellite navigation systems and appropriate nautical charts and publications
The primary method chosen for fixing the ship’s position is the most appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions

The fix obtained by celestial observations is within accepted accuracy levels

The fix obtained by terrestrial observations is within accepted accuracy levels

The accuracy of the resulting fix is properly assessed

The fix obtained by the use of electronic navigational aids is within the accuracy standards of the systems in use. The possible errors affecting the accuracy of the resulting position are stated and methods of minimizing the effects of system errors on the resulting position are properly applied
Determine and allow for compass errors Ability to determine and allow for errors of the magnetic and gyro-compasses

Knowledge of the principles of magnetic and gyro-compasses

An understanding of systems under the control of the master gyro and a knowledge of the operation and care of the main types of gyro-compass 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following::
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .3 approved laboratory equipment training
using: celestial observations, terrestrial bearings and comparison between magnetic and gyro-compasses 		The method and frequency of checks for errors of magnetic and gyrocompasses ensures accuracy of information
Coordinate search and rescue operations A thorough knowledge of and ability to apply the procedures contained in the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .3approved laboratory equipment training
  • .1 approved SAR training course
  • .2 approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .3 approved laboratory equipment training


using: relevant publications, charts, meteorological data, particulars of ships involved, radiocommunication equipment and other available facilities and one or more of the following:



 The plan for coordinating search and rescue operations is in accordance with international guidelines and standards

Radiocommunications are established and correct communication procedures are followed at all stages of the search and rescue operations
Establish watchkeeping arrangements and procedures Thorough knowledge of content, application and intent of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, as amended

Thorough knowledge of the content, application and intent of the Principles to be observed in keeping a navigational watch 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training, where appropriate
Watchkeeping arrangements and procedures are established and maintained in compliance with international regulations and guidelines so as to ensure the safety of navigation, protection of the marine environment and safety of the ship and persons on board
Maintain safe navigation through the use of information from navigation equipment and systems to assist command decision making

Note: Training and assessment in the use of ARPA is not required for those who serve exclusively on ships not fitted with ARPA. This limitation shall be reflected in the endorsement issued to the seafarer concerned

 An appreciation of system errors and thorough understanding of the operational aspects of navigational systems

Blind pilotage planning

Evaluation of navigational information derived from all sources, including radar and ARPA, in order to make and implement command decisions for collision avoidance and for directing the safe navigation of the ship

The interrelationship and optimum use of all navigational data available for conducting navigation 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from approved ARPA simulator and one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .3 approved laboratory equipment training
 Information obtained from navigation equipment and systems is correctly interpreted and analysed, taking into account the limitations of the equipment and prevailing circumstances and conditions

Action taken to avoid a close encounter or collision with another vessel is in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, as amended
Maintain the safety of navigation through the use of ECDIS and associated navigation systems to assist command decision making

Note: Training and assessment in the use of ECDIS is not required for those who serve exclusively on ships not fitted with ECDIS. This limitation shall be reflected in the endorsement issued to the seafarer concerned

 Management of operational procedures, system files and data, including:
  • .1 manage procurement, licensing and updating of chart data and system software to conform to established procedures
  • .2 system and information updating, including the ability to update ECDIS system version in accordance with vendor’s product development
  • .3 create and maintain system configuration and backup files
  • .4 create and maintain log files in accordance with established procedures
  • .5 create and maintain route plan files in accordance with established procedures
  • .6 use ECDIS log-book and track history functions for inspection of system functions, alarm settings and user responses
Use ECDIS playback functionality for passage review, route planning and review of system functions 		Assessment of evidence obtained from one of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
  • .3 approved ECDIS simulator training
 Operational procedures for using ECDIS are established, applied, and monitored

Actions taken to minimize risk to safety of navigation
Forecast weather and oceanographic conditions Ability to understand and interpret a synoptic chart and to forecast area weather, taking into account local weather conditions and information received by weather fax

Knowledge of the characteristics of various weather systems, including tropical revolving storms and avoidance of storm centres and the dangerous quadrants

Knowledge of ocean current systems

Ability to calculate tidal conditions

Use all appropriate nautical publications on tides and currents 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved laboratory equipment training
 The likely weather conditions predicted for a determined period are based on all available information

Actions taken to maintain safety of navigation minimize any risk to safety of the ship

Reasons for intended action are backed by statistical data and observations of the actual weather conditions
Respond to navigational emergencies Precautions when beaching a ship

Action to be taken if grounding is imminent, and after grounding

Refloating a grounded ship with and without assistance

Action to be taken if collision is imminent and following a collision or impairment of the watertight integrity of the hull by any cause

Assessment of damage control

Emergency steering

Emergency towing arrangements and towing procedure 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from practical instruction, in-service experience and practical drills in emergency procedures The type and scale of any problem is promptly identified and decisions and actions minimize the effects of any malfunction of the ship’s systems

Communications are effective and comply with established procedures

Decisions and actions maximize safety of persons on board
Manoeuvre and handle a ship in all conditions Manoeuvring and handling a ship in all conditions, including:
  • .1 manoeuvres when approaching pilot stations and embarking or disembarking pilots, with due regard to weather, tide, headreach and stopping distances
  • .2 handling ship in rivers, estuaries and restricted waters, having regard to the effects of current, wind and restricted water on helm response
  • .3 application of constantrate- of-turn techniques
  • .4 manoeuvring in shallow water, including the reduction in under-keel clearance caused by squat, rolling and pitching
  • .5 interaction between passing ships and between own ship and nearby banks (canal effect)
  • .6 berthing and unberthing under various conditions of wind, tide and current with and without tugs
  • .7 ship and tug interaction
  • .8 use of propulsion and manoeuvring systems
  • .9 choice of anchorage; anchoring with one or two anchors in limited anchorages and factors involved in determining the length of anchor cable to be used
  • .10 dragging anchor; clearing fouled anchors
  • .11 dry-docking, both with and without damage.
  • .12 management and handling of ships in heavy weather, including assisting a ship or aircraft in distress; towing operations; means of keeping an unmanageable ship out of trough of the sea, lessening drift and use of oil
  • .13 precautions in manoeuvring to launch rescue boats or survival craft in bad weather
  • .14 methods of taking on board survivors from rescue boats and survival craft
  • .15 ability to determine the manoeuvring and propulsion characteristics of common types of ships, with special reference to stopping distances and turning circles at various draughts and speeds
  • .16 importance of navigating at reduced speed to avoid damage caused by own ship’s bow wave and stern wave
  • .17 practical measures to be taken when navigating in or near ice or in conditions of ice accumulation on board
  • .18 use of, and manoeuvring in and near, traffic separation schemes and in vessel traffic service (VTS) areas
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training where appropriate
  • .3 approved manned scale ship model, where appropriate
All decisions concerning berthing and anchoring are based on a proper assessment of the ship’s manoeuvring and engine characteristics and the forces to be expected while berthed alongside or lying at anchor

While under way, a full assessment is made of possible effects of shallow and restricted waters, ice, banks, tidal conditions, passing ships and own ship’s bow and stern wave so that the ship can be safely manoeuvred under various conditions of loading and weather
Operate remote controls of propulsion plant and engineering systems and services Operating principles of marine power plants

Ships’ auxiliary machinery

General knowledge of marine engineering terms 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training where appropriate
Plant, auxiliary machinery and equipment is operated in accordance with technical specifications and within safe operating limits at all times
Function: Cargo handling and stowage at the management level
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4
Competence Knowledge, understanding and proficiency Methods for demonstrating competence Criteria for evaluating competence
Plan and ensure safe loading, stowage, securing, care during the voyage and unloading of cargoes Knowledge of and ability to apply relevant international regulations, codes and standards concerning the safe handling, stowage, securing and transport of cargoes

Knowledge of the effect on trim and stability of cargoes and cargo operations

Use of stability and trim diagrams and stress-calculating equipment, including automatic data-based (ADB) equipment, and knowledge of loading cargoes and ballasting in order to keep hull stress within acceptable limits

Stowage and securing of cargoes on board ships, including cargo-handling gear and securing and lashing equipment

Loading and unloading operations, with special regard to the transport of cargoes identified in the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing

General knowledge of tankers and tanker operations

Knowledge of the operational and design limitations of bulk carriers

Ability to use all available shipboard data related to loading, care and unloading of bulk cargoes

Ability to establish procedures for safe cargo handling in accordance with the provisions of the relevant instruments such as IMDG Code, IMSBC Code, MARPOL 73/78 Annexes III and V and other relevant information

Ability to explain the basic principles for establishing effective communications and improving working relationship between ship and terminal personnel 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training, where appropriate


using: stability, trim and stress tables, diagrams and stress-calculating equipment

 The frequency and extent of cargo condition monitoring is appropriate to its nature and prevailing conditions

Unacceptable or unforeseen variations in the condition or specification of the cargo are promptly recognized and remedial action is immediately taken and designed to safeguard the safety of the ship and those on board

Cargo operations are planned and executed in accordance with established procedures and legislative requirements

Stowage and securing of cargoes ensures that stability and stress conditions remain within safe limits at all times during the voyage
Assess reported defects and damage to cargo spaces, hatch covers and ballast tanks and take appropriate action Knowledge of the limitations on strength of the vital constructional parts of a standard bulk carrier and ability to interpret given figures for bending moments and shear forces

Ability to explain how to avoid the detrimental effects on bulk carriers of corrosion, fatigue and inadequate cargo handling

 Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training, where appropriate


using: stability, trim and stress tables, diagrams and stress-calculating equipment 		Evaluations are based on accepted principles, well-founded arguments and correctly carried out. The decisions taken are acceptable, taking into consideration the safety of the ship and the prevailing conditions
Carriage of dangerous goods International regulations, standards, codes and recommendations on the carriage of dangerous cargoes, including the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code and the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code

Carriage of dangerous, hazardous and harmful cargoes; precautions during loading and unloading and care during the voyage 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved simulator training where appropriate
  • .3 approved specialist training


 Planned distribution of cargo is based on reliable information and is in accordance with established guidelines and legislative requirements

Information on dangers, hazards and special requirements is recorded in a format suitable for easy reference in the event of an incident
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the management level
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4
Competence Knowledge, understanding and proficiency Methods for demonstrating competence Criteria for evaluating competence
Control trim, stability and stress Understanding of fundamental principles of ship construction and the theories and factors affecting trim and stability and measures necessary to preserve trim and stability

Knowledge of the effect on trim and stability of a ship in the event of damage to and consequent flooding of a compartment and countermeasures to be taken

Knowledge of IMO recommendations concerning ship stability

 Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
  • .3 approved simulator training, where appropriate


Stability and stress conditions are maintained within safe limits at all times
Monitor and control compliance with legislative requirements and measures to ensure safety of life at sea, security and the protection of the marine environment Knowledge of international maritime law embodied in international agreements and conventions

Regard shall be paid especially to the following subjects:
  • .1 certificates and other documents required to be carried on board ships by international conventions, how they may be obtained and their period of validity
  • .2 responsibilities under the relevant requirements of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, as amended
  • .3 responsibilities under the relevant requirements of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended
  • .4 responsibilities under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, as amended
  • .5 maritime declarations of health and the requirements of the International Health Regulations
  • .6 responsibilities under international instruments affecting the safety of the ship, passengers, crew and cargo
  • .7 methods and aids to prevent pollution of the marine environment by ships
  • .8 national legislation for implementing international agreements and conventions
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
  • .3 approved simulator training, where appropriate


Procedures for monitoring operations and maintenance comply with legislative requirements

Potential non-compliance is promptly and fully identified

Planned renewal and extension of certificates ensures continued validity of surveyed items and equipment
Maintain safety and security of the ship’s crew and passengers and the operational condition of life-saving, fire-fighting and other safety systems Thorough knowledge of life-saving appliance regulations (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea)

Organization of fire drills and abandon ship drills

Maintenance of operational condition of life-saving, fire-fighting and other safety systems

Actions to be taken to protect and safeguard all persons on board in emergencies

Actions to limit damage and salve the ship following a fire, explosion, collision or grounding 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from practical instruction and approved in-service training and experience Procedures for monitoring fire-detection and safety systems ensure that all alarms are detected promptly and acted upon in accordance with established emergency procedures
Develop emergency and damage control plans and handle emergency situations Preparation of contingency plans for response to emergencies

Ship construction, including damage control

Methods and aids for fire prevention, detection and extinction

Functions and use of life-saving appliances

 Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from approved in-service training and experience Emergency procedures are in accordance with the established plans for emergency situations
Use of leadership and managerial skill Knowledge of shipboard personnel management and training

A knowledge of related international maritime conventions and recommendations, and national legislation

Ability to apply task and workload management, including:
  • .1 planning and co-ordination
  • .2 personnel assignment
  • .3 time and resource constraints
  • .4 prioritization
  • .1 allocation, assignment, and prioritization of resources
  • .2 effective communication on board and ashore
  • .3 decisions reflect consideration of team experiences
  • .4 assertiveness and leadership, including motivation
  • .5 obtaining and maintaining situation awareness
  • .1 situation and risk assessment
  • .2 identify and generate options
  • .3 selecting course of action
  • .4 evaluation of outcome effectiveness
Knowledge and ability to apply effective resource management:Knowledge and ability to apply decision-making techniques:Development, implementation, and oversight of standard operating procedures 		Assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved training
  • .2 approved in-service experience
  • .3 approved simulator training
 The crew are allocated duties and informed of expected standards of work and behaviour in a manner appropriate to the individuals concerned

Training objectives and activities are based on assessment of current competence and capabilities and operational requirements

Operations are demonstrated to be in accordance with applicable rules





Operations are planned and resources are allocated as needed in correct priority to perform necessary tasks

Communication is clearly and unambiguously given and received

Effective leadership behaviours are demonstrated

Necessary team member(s) share accurate understanding of current and predicted vessel state and operational status and external environment

Decisions are most effective for the situation

Operations are demonstrated to be effective and in accordance with applicable rules
Organize and manage the provision of medical care on board A thorough knowledgefootnote of the use and contents of the following publications:

  • .1 International Medical Guide for Ships or equivalent national publications
  • .2 medical section of the International Code of Signals
  • .3 Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving Dangerous Goods
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from approved training Actions taken and procedures followed correctly apply and make full use of advice available
Parent topic: Chapter II - Standards regarding the master and deck department
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