Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWOP) 2025
The main updates to the 2025 Edition are as follows:
- NEW CHAPTER: shipyard safety and the considerations for seafarers while a ship is being repaired at a shipyard - Chapter 34
- Standards for means of access - Chapter 22 (Annex 22.1)
- Safe movement on board ships during extreme weather conditions - Chapter 11
- Chapters 9, 10, 12 and 15: Including new figure of a hammer suspension system in chapter 12
- Updated legislation references throughout.
COSWP is a comprehensive set of guidelines and best practices designed to ensure the safety and health of seafarers working on merchant vessels. It provides practical guidance on safe working practices and procedures to be followed onboard ships to minimise risks and prevent accidents.
It is a statutory requirement for the current edition of the code to be carried on board all UK ships, other than fishing vessels and pleasure craft. The code contains essential health and safety information, and it must be made available to any seafarer on board the ship who requests it.