ABLE SEAFER-DECK
STCW Convention and Code, as amended in 2010, also updated the STCW Code to what is now called the “STCW Code 2011 Edition.” The new amendments to the STCW Convention and Code created the Able Seafarer Deck rating. The New STCW final rule in effect as of March 24, 2014 for U.S. mariners.
12.603 Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement as able seafarer-deck (AS-D).
Until January 1, 2017 considered to have met the requirement for AS-D endorsement if they have served as a watchstanding AB or as an RFPNW for a period of not less than 12 months within the 60 months prior to application.
- If holding an AB before January 1, 2017 will be eligible for AS-D endorsement if:
(1) Hold the RFPNW endorsement, Table A-II/4;
(2) Completed approved training in Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC) and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats; or Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC) and rescue boats, other than lifeboats or fast rescue boats-limited (PSC-limited).
- After January 1, 2017 to qualify for this endorsement as able seafarer-deck, you must:
(1) Be not less than 18 years of age;
(2) Meet the requirements for certification as a RFPNW, Table A-II/4;
(3) While qualified as an RFPNW, have seagoing service in the deck department of—
(i) Not less than 18 months; or
(ii) Not less than 12 months and have completed approved training;
(4) Provide evidence of meeting the standard of competence specified in Table A–II/5 for AS-D of the STCW Code. (Standards still to be published by USCG). (5) Completed approved training in Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC) and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats; or Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC) and rescue boats, other than lifeboats or fast rescue boats-limited (PSC-limited).
Table 1 to § 12.603(e) – STCW Endorsement as Able Seafarer-Deck
Entry Path From National Able Seaman (AB) Ratings Endorsements.
AB Unlimited
AB Limited
AB Special
AB OSV
AB Sail
AB Fishing Industry
Sea Service Required 1
None
None
6 months 2
12 months 3
12 months 3
12 months 3
STCW Table A-II/4 Proficiency ASMT
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
STCW Table A-II/5 Proficiency ASMT
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Training Req’d if Not Completed
PSC or PSC-Limited
PSC or PSC-Limited
PSC or PSC-Limited
PSC or PSC-Limited
PSC or PSC-Limited
PSC or PSC-Limited
(1)Minimum additional sea service required for AS-D endorsement if already holding the RFPNW endorsement.
(2)Sea service may be reduced to 3 months if training has been completed as part of an approved AS-D training program.
(3)Sea service may be reduced to 6 months if training has been completed as part of an approved AS-D training program.