Crew Members on Deck, Including Low-Rank Personnel
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) sets the standards for seafarers seeking to work on British vessels. This article provides an overview of the process for applying for an MCA oral exam and obtaining a Deck Certificate of Competency (CoC).
### Applying for the MCA Oral Exam:
To be eligible for the MCA oral exam, seafarers must hold a valid Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited certificate or its equivalent for Chief Officer level positions. Candidates should prepare thoroughly by studying key maritime rules and codes relevant to their grade, such as the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) Convention, and Collision Regulations (COLREGS).
The MCA oral exams can be booked through official channels. The oral exam assesses practical knowledge, regulations, ship handling, and leadership skills. Candidates might also be required to take computer-based tests such as the UK Legal and Administrative Processes (UKLAP) as part of the certification requirements. It is highly recommended to study from specialized guides like Macneil’s Seamanship Examiner notes, which cover essential topics for the Chief Mate and Master Unlimited orals.
### Requirements for Deck Certificate of Competency (CoC) Application:
To apply for a Chief Mate or Master CoC, candidates must hold valid STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certificates, including OOW Unlimited qualification. Candidates must pass both written and oral exams conducted or approved by the MCA. The oral exam tests practical command knowledge and adherence to maritime conventions.
For UK Flag State Endorsements, candidates for Chief Mate and Master CoCs must demonstrate knowledge of UK Legal and Administrative Processes. Masters take a UKLAP Grade 1 exam, while Chief Mates and other officers may be assessed by their company with records kept for MCA inspection.
Candidates must submit application forms, copies of qualifying certificates, and supporting documents such as sea service testimonials and medical certificates. Specific procedures can vary and are detailed in MCA notices and guidance documents. Candidates might also need to obtain medical fitness clearance equivalent to a Merchant Mariner Credential Medical Evaluation Report as part of the certification process.
In summary, to apply for an MCA oral exam and deck CoC, candidates must meet eligibility criteria (valid OOW, STCW certificates), prepare thoroughly through study guides and knowledge of key maritime codes, pass written and oral exams including possibly UKLAP tests, and submit all required documents including sea service records and medical certificates to the MCA or relevant UK maritime authority.
For further information and detailed guidance, candidates are advised to refer to the MCA's website and relevant notices and guidance documents.
Seafarers pursuing education and self-development for career development in the maritime industry should pay close attention to key maritime rules and codes relevant to their grade when preparing for the MCA oral exam, which includes the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) Convention, and Collision Regulations (COLREGS. To apply for a Deck Certificate of Competency (CoC) such as a Chief Mate or Master CoC, seafarers must also pass both written and oral exams conducted or approved by the MCA, demonstrating practical command knowledge and adherence to maritime conventions, and submit all required documents including sea service records and medical certificates.
