MLC — Maritime Labour Convention
International agreement of the ILO setting out seafarers' rights to decent conditions of work — ratified by 90 countries covering over 91% of the world's shipping fleet
Convention Overview
What is MLC 2006?
The Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (MLC) is an international agreement of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) which sets out seafarers' rights to decent conditions of work. It is sometimes called the "Seafarers' Bill of Rights". It applies to all seafarers, including those with jobs in hotel and other passenger services on cruise ships and commercial yachts.
As of January 2019, a total of 90 countries had ratified the MLC 2006, which has resulted in more than 91% of the world's shipping fleet being regulated by this convention.
Eurocert's MLC Experience
Eurocert S.A has been doing MLC audits for recruiting companies and shipping companies against compliance of MLC. Our experienced maritime auditors ensure thorough assessment of all MLC requirements for your operations.
Convention Highlights
Highlights of MLC 2006
Minimum Working & Living Conditions
Ensuring decent accommodation, food, and living standards for all seafarers aboard ships.
Safe & Secure Workplace
Mandating occupational safety and health protection measures for all maritime workers.
Fair Terms of Employment
Regulating employment agreements, wages, hours of work, and repatriation rights.
Health Protection
Access to medical care, health protection, and social security for seafarers.
Welfare Measures
Shore-based welfare facilities, recreation, and communication access for crew members.
No Child Labor
Strict minimum age requirements to prevent child labor in the maritime industry.
Latest Updates
2019 Amendments
A second set of amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) for improving crew safety and welfare came into force on 8 January 2019
Account is to be taken of the latest version of the guidance on eliminating shipboard harassment and bullying, jointly published by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF).
In addition to the various health and safety matters which the MLC requires should be taken into account, there is added 'harassment and bullying'.
To the list of matters which should be considered for investigation in a health and safety context, there is added 'problems arising from harassment and bullying'.
Important: Bullying and harassment, including sexual harassment, is an abuse of human rights and living on a ship offers limited alternatives to avoid it. Although these changes are non-mandatory, flag states must give due consideration to implementing them.
Our Services
MLC Audit Services
MLC Compliance Audits
Comprehensive audits against MLC 2006 requirements for recruiting and shipping companies.
Seafarer Rights Verification
Verification of seafarer employment conditions, wages, and welfare provisions.
Working Conditions Assessment
Assessment of on-board working conditions including hours, rest periods, and safety.
Accommodation & Food Standards
Inspection of living quarters, recreational facilities, and catering standards.
Health & Medical Care Review
Review of medical care provisions, health protection measures, and social security.
Employment Agreement Verification
Verification of seafarer employment agreements and terms of service.
Flag State Compliance
Ensuring compliance with flag state requirements under MLC 2006.
Port State Inspection Readiness
Preparing vessels and companies for port state control inspections.
Trusted Audit Partner
Why Choose Eurocert?
About Eurocert
Eurocert Asia is affiliated with Eurocert SA, Athens, Greece, which is a leading global independent third-party inspection, audit and certification body. Through this affiliation, clients benefit from internationally recognised accreditation, a worldwide footprint, and highly trained auditors with deep expertise in maritime compliance, MLC implementation and related conformity assessment.
Maritime Expertise
Eurocert S.A has been doing MLC audits for recruiting companies and shipping companies against compliance of MLC. Our auditors bring deep understanding of maritime labour standards and international conventions.
Certification through this alliance means evaluation by an accredited, internationally recognised third-party body, with regional coordination and auditor access supported by Eurocert Asia in line with Eurocert SA, Athens.
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