TSO is delighted to announce the release of the highly anticipated 2024 edition of ‘Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers’ (COSWP); a statutory requirement to be onboard all UK flagged merchant ships. Authored by Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), it provides practical guidance on safe working practices and procedures to be followed on board ships to minimise risks and prevent accidents.

Following an extensive redesign and modernisation process via TSO’s in-house content development and graphic design teams, the new edition of COSWP aims to enhance usability, clarity, and accessibility for seafarers worldwide. The comprehensive review led to structural improvements, language simplification, and the introduction of recurring design features, facilitating quicker reference and improving overall comprehension.

One significant change in the new edition is the transition from loose-leaf to bound format. This shift not only enhances the end-user experience but also eliminates the need for manual updates, providing a more cost-effective and sustainable solution for maritime safety.

MCA Chief Executive Virginia McVea, said, “The Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers is such an important tool and we’re excited to finally share the latest version. It has been our constant aim to reflect industry feedback and address concerns, ensuring the best version of the code is available to all that need it. There are real benefits that come with this new version – most importantly it’s more accessible and easy-to-use. It is mandatory for UK ships to carry COSWP, and we are sure this new edition will be easier for seafarers to get the information they need.”

Ian Fik, Account Director at TSO, said, "The Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers is a vital publication for ensuring the safety of seafarers. It is fantastic to see the hard work from the publishing team come to fruition and we are thrilled to have supported MCA with improvements for the release of this new edition.”

Key features of the COSWP 2024 edition:

•  comprehensive guidelines and best practices for ensuring the safety and health of seafarers on merchant vessels
•  practical guidance on safe working practices and procedures to minimise risks and prevent accidents on board ships
•  essential health and safety information accessible to any seafarer on board the ship upon request

Now available for purchase in paperback format, with options for PDF and eBook versions. For more information and to order your copy, please visit: https://www.tsoshop.co.uk/product/9780115541322/Code-of-Safe-Working-Practices-for-Merchant-Seafarers-2024-Edition-Paperback 

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