What is PSSR 2026 Amendment ?

From January 1, 2026, the global maritime training landscape has seen an important update under the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code — called the PSSR 2026 Amendment. This change expands what seafarers must learn about safety and workplace conduct onboard ships. 

What Is PSSR? (Before the Amendment)

PSSR, or Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities, is a core module within STCW Basic Safety Training (BST). Traditionally, it covered topics like:

• Safe working practices on deck and in machinery spaces
• Emergency response basics
• Pollution prevention
• Communication and teamwork onboard

PSSR ensures every seafarer understands essential safety practices before joining a ship. 

 What Is the PSSR 2026 Amendment?

In 2024, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted Resolution MSC.560(108) to update the STCW Code’s training requirements. As a result, with effect from January 1, 2026, the PSSR course now includes a new mandatory competence area:

 “Contribute to the prevention of and response to violence and harassment — including sexual harassment, bullying, and sexual assault.” 

This means that safety training now extends beyond physical hazards to include behavioral safety, respectful workplace conduct, and prevention of abusive situations onboard. 

Who Needs to Comply with the Amendment?

• Existing Seafarers (Before Dec 15, 2025)

If you completed your original PSSR training before December 15, 2025, you must complete the PSSR Amendment 2026 e-learning module (Course ID 957 / PSSRAMDT) to update your competence. 

This requirement applies if you plan to join a vessel on or after January 1, 2026 and ensures your certification meets the latest STCW standard. 

•  New Trainees (After Dec 15, 2025)

If you are a new entrant who completes PSSR training after December 15, 2025, the updated content is already built into the revised course. You will automatically comply with the 2026 standard without taking a separate amendment module. 

How to Comply with the PSSR 2026 Amendment?

Here is a practical step-by-step guide for seafarers:

1. Prepare Your Profile - Before enrolling, make sure your photo and signature have been updated on the seafarer’s profile on DG shipping e-governance portal.

2. Visit the DGS E-Learning Portal at https://dgsstcw.aduacademy.in/

3. Enroll in the PSSR 2026 Amendment Course

4. Login to start E-learning via the DGS E-learning portal

5. Complete the Online Module (approx. 3 Hours)

6. Give the assessment test

7. Download Your Updated Certificate - wait for 2 hours after passing the exam to download your certificate.

Conclusion

The PSSR 2026 Amendment is a landmark step towards stronger safety and social responsibility standards at sea. By embracing these changes, the maritime industry is not just checking a regulatory box — it is actively promoting a culture of respect, inclusivity, and well-being among all seafarers. 

Completing this short update module is essential to help you stay compliant, avoid joining delays, and be ready for modern, global standards of seafaring life.

For a clearer and quicker explanation, watch our two detailed videos on the PSSR 2026 Amendment, available in two languages for your convenience.

This Blog is authored by Akshay Shrivastav 

Details about the Author

Akshay Shrivastav holds a Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science from Indian Maritime University, complemented by pre-sea training at the International Maritime Institute. He currently serves as a Navigation and Operations Officer at Anglo-Eastern, managing ship navigation, cargo operations, and logistics with expertise in vessel oversight, tank cleaning coordination, and safety compliance during loading and unloading. At Anglo-Eastern, Akshay Shrivastav collaborates with teams to command vessels, streamline maritime operations, and assist senior officers in preparing for inspections and audits to uphold top standards. Driven by safety and precision, he seeks to apply a structured, detail-focused mindset to drive organizational success, while promoting teamwork and operational efficiency.