STCW/MLC Seafarer Rest-Hours Checker

Verify schedule compliance with STCW A-VIII/1 and MLC 2006 minimum rest hour regulations.

Free, runs in your browser, no sign-up. Not legal/professional advice — verify against the current regulation.
By Maker Label Studio

About the STCW/MLC Seafarer Rest-Hours Checker

The STCW and MLC rest-hours checker aids ship captains, chief mates, and crewing managers in precisely tracking mandatory seafarer downtime. Avoid port state control detentions by rigorously auditing watch schedules against complex international maritime rules covering minimum daily rest limits and allowed split-period exceptions.

How it works

  1. Enter the daily working and watchkeeping hours for a specific seafarer over a 7-day rolling schedule.
  2. The system automatically audits periods of continuous rest and tallies aggregate hours.
  3. Review the dashboard to flag violations of the 10-hour daily or 77-hour weekly minimum rest mandates.

Frequently asked questions

What are the absolute minimum rest hours required by STCW?

STCW mandates a minimum of 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period, and a minimum of 77 hours of rest in any 7-day period for all safety watchkeepers.

Can the 10-hour daily rest be split into smaller periods?

Yes, the 10 hours of rest may be divided into no more than two periods. One of these periods must be at least 6 consecutive hours long.

Are there exceptions to STCW rest limits for emergencies?

Yes. The master has the right to suspend the schedule of rest hours and require seafarers to work during an immediate emergency affecting the safety of the ship.

Does the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) align with STCW?

Yes, MLC 2006 aligns closely with STCW, but applies to the broader crew and allows flag states to choose between regulating maximum work hours or minimum rest hours.

References