As part of the MTCS Individual Competence Assessment (ICA), candidates are required to submit a Witness Statement as supporting evidence. Over time, MTCS has identified common questions and recurring mistakes with witness statements that can delay the issue of an MTCS Competence Certificate.
This guide explains what a witness statement is, why it matters, and how to complete it correctly to keep your assessment on track.
What Is a Witness Statement?
A witness statement is a signed declaration confirming that the information you have submitted to MTCS is accurate.
It typically verifies:
- Where you are employed
- Your role and responsibilities
- How long you have worked in that role
The statement confirms that your employment and experience align with the evidence provided in your ICA submission.
Why Is a Witness Statement Important?
Witness statements play a critical role in the ICA process. They provide independent confirmation that the experience and role details you have submitted are accurate and credible.
They also help demonstrate that your competence level aligns with IMCA guidelines and industry expectations. Without this confirmation, MTCS cannot fully validate your assessment evidence.
Who Can Sign or Approve a Witness Statement?
A witness must be someone who can formally confirm your employment and role history. Suitable witnesses include:
- Line managers
- Supervisors
- Superintendents
- Personnel or HR managers
- Agency managers
The witness does not need to be technically specialised in your role, but they must be able to verify your work history and time served.
How Many Witness Statements Are Required for an ICA?
MTCS recommends providing at least two witness statements where possible. Ideally, this would include:
- One from a shore-based manager
- One from an offshore manager or supervisor
The exact number required depends on the date range your statements cover. If your initial statements only cover a single job or offshore trip, MTCS may request additional statements to fully support your assessment period.
What Happens After You Submit a Witness Statement?
After submission, MTCS will often contact your witness directly. This step is used to:
- Validate the authenticity of the signature
- Confirm the accuracy of the information provided
This verification helps maintain the integrity and credibility of the MTCS certification process.
Witness vs Appraiser. What Is the Difference?
A witness and an appraiser serve different purposes within the ICA process.
A witness:
- Confirms you have been working in a specific role
- Verifies your stated level and time in position
- May not be technically specialised in your role
An example would be an agency or personnel manager.
An appraiser:
- Has directly observed your ability to perform the role
- Is technically competent and experienced in that discipline
- Assesses your practical performance and competence
An example would be an ROV Manager assessing an ROV professional.
A witness cannot also act as your appraiser.
Witness Statement Templates
To make this process straightforward, MTCS provides witness statement templates through MTCS Online. Templates are available for all ICA grades and ensure that the correct information is supplied in a consistent format.
Using the template helps reduce delays and avoids missing or incomplete details.
You can access these resources via MTCS Online.
Need Further Guidance?
If you require any additional support with witness statements or your ICA submission, the MTCS team is available to help.
Contact MTCS at [email protected] for guidance and advice.
For more resources, visit the MTCS Support Centre or explore assessment and certification guidance through MTCS Online.
