These Rules are formulated in accordance with the Maritime Traffic Safety Law,, the Regulations on Seafarers, and relevant international conventions concluded or acceded to by China, for the purposes of improving the qualifications of seafarers on sea-going vessels, ensuring the safety of life and property at sea, and protecting the marine environment.
The Rules set qualification requirements for obtaining certificates, including age, health, training, sea-service experience, examinations, and, where applicable, foreign-language proficiency. They regulate certification for different ship types and ranks, special requirements for personnel serving on passenger ships and specialized vessels, examination and assessment procedures, certificate renewal, temporary exemptions, recognition of foreign certificates, company responsibilities, supervisory measures, and penalties for fraud, falsification, misconduct, or non-compliance with certification requirements.