Effective January 2026
Safety Training for harassment, bullying, and sexual assault
Starting January 2026, all seafarers will be required to complete updated safety training that now includes comprehensive instruction on preventing harassment, bullying, and sexual assault at sea. This change, led by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), enhances global maritime safety standards under the STCW Code (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) and the ISM Code (International Safety Management).
While the IMO establishes these standards, it does not directly enforce them. Instead, enforcement is carried out by flag states—the countries under whose flags ships are registered. Because flag state oversight varies, enforcement can be inconsistent across the global fleet. This means that while the regulations set a clear expectation, the true impact depends heavily on each company’s commitment to applying them in practice.
As many maritime safety experts note, “culture is what happens when no one is watching.” A safe, respectful, and inclusive onboard environment relies not only on compliance with regulations but also on fostering a culture where harassment, bullying, and assault are never tolerated—whether authorities are present or not.
The updated training modules will focus on:
- Understanding and recognizing harassment, bullying, and sexual assault in maritime workplaces.
- Prevention strategies and fostering a supportive, respectful culture onboard.
- Reporting procedures and support mechanisms for victims.
- Reinforcing the responsibility of every crew member to maintain a safe workplace.
These updates ensure that all seafarers, regardless of rank or nationality, are equipped to prevent and address these issues.
Shipowners and operators must also update their Safety Management Systems under the ISM Code to reflect these requirements.
For seafarers, any renewal or issuance of STCW certificates after January 2026 will require proof of completion of this updated training.
However, the effectiveness of these measures will ultimately depend on leadership at sea and the cultural standards set by each vessel and company.
By aligning safety training with respect, dignity, and proactive cultural change, the maritime industry can move beyond minimum compliance to create truly safe and professional working environments for everyone at sea.
