STCW PSSR 2026: Violence and Harassment Requirements
The STCW PSSR 2026 update is an amendment to the STCW Convention stemming from IMO Resolution MSC.560(108), adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee in May 2024. It amends STCW Code Part A, Table A-VI/1-4. From 1 January 2026, PSSR training delivered on or after this date must include the new competence: the ability to contribute to the prevention of and response to violence and harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and sexual assault. This is now a mandatory part of STCW training requirements.
What's Changing in STCW PSSR?
From 1 January 2026, violence and harassment prevention is added to core PSSR training in STCW Code Part A, Table A-VI/1-4. The change was approved by the IMO Maritime Safety Committee in May 2024 under Resolution MSC.560(108).
After this date, PSSR training delivered on or after 1 January 2026 must include the new competence: the ability to contribute to the prevention of and response to violence and harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and sexual assault.
What Does the Updated Training Cover?
The update covers all types of violence and harassment, not only sexual harassment, bullying, and sexual assault. The training defines violence, harassment, bullying, sexual harassment, and sexual assault. It explains how these issues affect safety, welfare, and mental health at work onboard.
1 Risk Factors
Seafarers will learn about risk factors such as power imbalance, isolation, fatigue, stress, and misuse of substances.
2 Prevention & Response
The training covers prevention, recognition, reporting, and response.
3 Support Mechanisms
The course teaches bystander intervention and trauma-informed response principles; support to victims, bystanders, and self.
Who Needs the Updated PSSR Certificate?
If you complete PSSR training for the first time on or after 1 January 2026, your training must include the updated competence as accepted by the relevant flag administration. This applies to all new seafarers and anyone recertifying STCW basic safety after this date.
If your current PSSR certificate was issued before 2026 and is still valid, many flags use a 5-year validity. You'll need the updated module when you renew after 1 January 2026. Consider enrolling in STCW refresher courses to ensure compliance with the latest requirements.
How to Prepare for Compliance
Step 1
Check crew PSSR certificate issuance dates
Step 2
Note issuing flags
Step 3
List 2026+ renewals
Check every crew member's PSSR certificate issuance and expiry dates, and note the issuing flag. List who will need renewal or first certification after 1 January 2026.
Book approved courses early. Only training covering the revised competence will be accepted by the relevant flag administration. Training should be completed through a course or refresher arrangement accepted by that flag administration, and training providers must have proper STCW accreditation to issue valid certificates.
Advice for Seafarers
Pick a recognised PSSR course that includes the 1 January 2026 changes. Check what appears on the certificate and which flags accept it. Have your training records ready for inspection before you join a ship.
Now's a good time to audit your crew's training and make sure people booked for renewal after 1 January 2026 get the right PSSR update. Quality maritime industry training providers will ensure your certificates meet all the new requirements.
Stay Compliant with Updated STCW Training
Ensure your crew meets the new PSSR requirements before January 2026. Our accredited courses cover all updated standards.
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