Elevating Safety & Efficiency with Training at the Maritime Skills Academy

One of the most important aspects of maintaining high standards in maritime operations is through training. An inclusive approach enhances the skills and knowledge of officers and crew while ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards.

The Maritime Skills Academy (MSA) is pivotal in providing top-tier training for maritime professionals. The MSA helps clients elevate their operational capabilities and safety standards by utilising state-of-the-art facilities, expert trainers, and world-class simulators.

Captain Josip Kulas Bridge Simulator MSA Portsmouth | Maritime Training at the Maritime Skills Academy

Training is an ongoing process that encompasses various aspects of shipboard life, from technical skills to safety protocols. At the MSA, clients can benefit from hands-on training in navigation, engineering, and communication systems using the latest technologies.

Our bridge simulators offer realistic scenarios, so crew can better prepare for emergencies and crisis situations, in accordance with the maritime regulations set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Accident Investigation

Accident investigation is critical for improving safety standards in any industry. Using our expert analysis, instructors guide clients in identifying causes of accidents and implementing preventative measures.

Based on the investigation, the client will then receive documented recommendations to improve safety protocols on board, enhancing the safety of crew and passengers.

HR and Policy Creation

Effective Human Resources (HR) management and policy creation are crucial for successful operations.

Clients will receive expert advice on developing clear policies and strategies around working hours, rest periods, and crew welfare. As a result, the client will be better equipped to support their crew and increase staff retention.

Safety Procedures Advice and Design

Designing robust safety procedures is a cornerstone of onboard training. As part of our training package, the MSA can provide clients with guidance by creating tailored Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for daily operations and emergencies. Our expert trainers will work with clients to identify potential hazards and establish effective mitigation strategies to accompany this. Involving the crew in safety planning will foster a safety culture, increasing crew engagement.

Man in hi-vis orange jacket, holding a clipboard | Maritime Training with the Maritime Skills Academy

Safety Audits

Clients will benefit from thorough assessments, guaranteeing their vessels comply with safety standards. This can then be supported by actionable advice to enhance existing measures and practices. But the support doesn’t stop there. We believe in “Setting New Standards Together,” which is why, at the MSA, our clients can receive ongoing support to maintain high safety standards through regular audits and assessments.

Port Studies

Port studies are crucial for understanding local conditions and regulations. With the assistance of our bridge simulator, crew can gain insights into port layout, and specific regional rules for efficient navigation and operations. This progressive approach will help crew to anticipate and mitigate potential risks specific to each port.

Image of simulator screens | Maritime Training at the Maritime Skills Academy

Independent Officer and Crew Skill Set Assessments

Utilising bridge and engine simulators, regular assessments of officers and crew are vital for maintaining high standards on board. The MSA offers skill evaluations, in which clients receive detailed assessments of crew and officer skills, knowledge, and performance. With regular evaluations, clients can promote accountability and excellence in their operations.

How can the Maritime Skills Academy support you with Maritime Training?

As stated, training is critical in elevating safety and efficiency in the maritime industry. The MSA is a leader in providing high-quality training, assessments, and audits, utilising our state-of-the-art facilities.

Book with us today to enhance your operational capabilities and maintain the highest standards of excellence.

To learn more about these training courses, please email Director of Training and Simulation, Plamen Marinov at: plamenm@vikingmsa.com

The MCA approved STCW Basic Training for Service on Ships using Fuels provides training for seafarers responsible for designated safety duties associated with the care, use, or in emergency response to the fuels on board ships subject to the IGF code (International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels).

In our latest article, we look at the many reasons why this course is so important.

Safety:

The International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) sets out safety standards for ships that use alternative fuels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) and other low-flashpoint fuels.

This code aims to ensure the safe design, construction, and operation of ships using these fuels.

The STCW Basic Training covers the essential knowledge and skills required to handle and respond to emergencies related to these fuels, ensuring the safety of the crew, passengers, and the environment.

Competence:

The training ensures that seafarers working on ships using alternative fuels are competent in handling the specific challenges and hazards associated with such fuels.

It covers topics like fuel characteristics, safe fuel handling procedures, firefighting techniques, and emergency response protocols.

By completing the training, seafarers acquire the necessary skills to effectively operate and respond to incidents involving alternative fuel systems.

Compliance:

The STCW Convention (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) is an international maritime treaty that establishes minimum training, certification, and watchkeeping standards for seafarers.

The training on ships using fuels covered within the IGF Code is mandated by the convention, ensuring compliance with international regulations.

Ship operators and seafarers must adhere to these regulations to meet the required standards and maintain a valid certificate of competency.

Prevention of accidents and pollution:

Ships using alternative fuels pose unique safety challenges due to the characteristics of these fuels. They have different ignition properties and may require specific handling procedures.

The STCW Basic Training equips seafarers with the knowledge to identify potential hazards, prevent accidents, and respond effectively to emergencies.

By ensuring that crew members are well-trained, the training helps minimize the risk of accidents, mitigate their consequences, and prevent pollution incidents.

Industry standards and best practices:

The STCW Basic Training reflects industry standards and best practices related to the use of fuels covered within the IGF Code.

These standards are developed through extensive research, analysis of incidents, and collaboration among maritime experts and organisations.

By incorporating these standards into the training, seafarers gain access to the latest knowledge and practices in the field, enhancing the overall safety culture within the shipping industry.

In summary, the STCW Basic Training for Service on Ships using Fuels covered within the IGF Code is important because it ensures the safety, competence, compliance, and pollution prevention of seafarers working on ships using alternative fuels.

It helps them acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to handle emergencies, follow industry standards, and maintain high safety standards in their operations.

To find out more about this course and to register your interest, please click here.