DRAFT, needs technical review. Not for publication. The title is our own wording, not the official Paris MoU text.
PSC deficiency code 01220: Seafarers' employment agreement (SEA)
| Category | Crew certificates and MLC |
| Related certificate | Maritime Labour Certificate |
| Main references | MLC 2006, Standard A2.1 |
| Typical action codes | 17 (rectify before departure), 30 (detainable) if serious |
| Commonly detainable? | Can be, depending on severity (no statistics claimed) |
What PSC officers look for
- SEA missing, unsigned or not available on board
- Terms don't match actual wages or hours
- Seafarer has no copy, or SEA not in a language they understand
- Contract periods expired
Typical root causes
- Crewing agency and manager processes not aligned
- Contract extensions not documented
- Weak document checks at crew change
Corrective action (example)
Issue correct and signed SEAs for each affected seafarer; give them copies; correct any wage discrepancies.
Preventive action (example)
Pre-joining document checklist with the crewing agency; master's crew document check at every crew change; HR audit each quarter.
Evidence to attach for close-out
- Signed SEA copies (redacted for privacy)
- Wage reconciliation
- Crewing procedure revision
- Master's check record
Related
Generate a close-out report for this finding · Download the CAP template
Official code list: Paris MoU, List of Deficiency Codes (1 July 2026). Action codes: Paris MoU, Inspection outcome. Reviewed by: _pending_ · Review date: _pending_ This page is general guidance, not legal, flag or class advice. Always follow the PSC officer's instructions and your flag and class requirements.