In June 2010, IMO adopted substantial amendments to the STCW Convention governing seafarers' training. This third edition of the popular ICS Guidelines for shipping companies has been fully revised and updated to take account of these changes - the so called 'Manila Amendments'. As well as taking account of technical developments, these changes to STCW include new training requirements for leadership and teamwork, enhanced refresher training for qualified seafarers, new competence standards for tanker personnel and for the new grade of Able Seafarer (Deck and Engine), and new requirements for maintaining records of ratings' training. The ICS Guidelines should be read by anyone connected with the employment and training of merchant seafarers. The 2010 amendments also introduced major changes to IMO regulations concerning seafarers' minimum rest hours applying from 2012.

The revised Guidelines include:

Detailed advice on company obligations and compliance;
Information about the changes to STCW and when they come into effect.