The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has published Amendment 3 to Marine Guidance Note (MGN) 600 (M) concerning the inspection of coded vessels under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). This latest update, issued on 11 November 2026, provides vital guidance on inspection arrangements to ensure compliance with MLC standards.
Key Updates in Amendment 3 to MGN 600 (M)
Amendment 3 replaces previous amendments and earlier MGNs, consolidating and refining inspection guidance. It notably updates contact details for those applying for Maritime Labour Certificates and revises references to ensure that the documentation accurately reflects current regulatory frameworks. The amendment also addresses onboard recreational facilities and food and catering standards as outlined in the updated Annex 1 – MSF 1730, sections 9 and 10.
Implications for Stakeholders
The guidance targets a broad range of maritime stakeholders, including small vessel owners, operators, managers, seafarers, designers, builders, and surveyors. Ensuring clear compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention is crucial for the safe operation of vessels and the welfare of seafarers onboard.
- Replacement of previous MGNs 490 and 491 amendments published in 2014 and MGN 600(M) amendment 2.
- Updated Annex 1 – MSF 1730 with detailed standards on recreational and catering facilities for seafarers.
- Revised contact information for Maritime Labour Certificate applications.
- Enhanced clarity on inspection procedures for coded vessels to improve compliance monitoring.
This updated guidance can be accessed through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s website, providing stakeholders with the most recent compliance directives. These steps align with ongoing international efforts to standardize seafarer welfare inspections and uphold labour rights across the maritime industry Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
Those interested in the broader context of Labour Convention initiatives can also refer to the recent developments captured in the Ukraine ILO Maritime Labour Convention 2026 Initiative Signals Ukraine ILO Maritime Labour Convention 2026 Initiative Signals.
