STCW Basic Training for Seafarers

Detailed below is a brief outline of the content of each section of the course.

Security Awareness (optional) – Monday am

This optional training gives on-board personnel without a designated security duty essential educational and training to meet the Knowledge, Understanding and proficiency (KUP) requirements set out in chapter XI-2 SOLAS 1974 and the International Ship and Port Facility security (ISPS) code.

Candidates will learn how to:

• contribute to the enhancement of maritime security through heightened awareness  
• recognise security threats  
• understand the need for, and methods of, maintaining security awareness and vigilance  

Please note: Security Awareness training must be undertaken by all seafarers employed or engaged in any capacity on ships that are required to comply with the ISPS code.  

Personal Survival Techniques - Monday 08.30 - 17.00

This element of the training provides all those intending to go to sea with essential basic knowledge of survival equipment, survival principles and techniques to maximise their chances of survival in the event of a marine incident. Training consists of theoretical classroom work, enhanced by exercises in our Environmental Training Tank. Assessment is by direct observation, oral questioning and simulated scenarios. The following topics are covered: 

• Survival Difficulties and Factors  
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 
• Life Rafts and Equipment  
• Actions Prior to Abandonment  
• In-Water Survival Techniques  
• Helicopter Rescue  
• Vital & Secondary Actions in the Life Raft  
• Righting an Upturned Life Raft  
• Use of Pyrotechnics

Elementary First Aid - Tuesday  

Elementary First Aid provides sea-going personnel with basic knowledge of immediate action to be taken following an accident or other medical emergency on board ship. Assessment is by direct observation, oral questioning and simulated scenarios. The following topics are covered: 

• Casualty Positioning  
• Resuscitation Techniques  
• Control of Bleeding  
• Basic Shock Management  
• Improvised Bandages  
• Use of Materials in a First Aid Kit  

Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting – Wednesday am to Friday lunchtime

This element of the course gives all sea-going personnel a basic knowledge of the ways in which fires are caused and the precautions to be taken to minimise fire risk on board ship. Assessment is by direct observation, oral questioning and a written examination. The following topics are covered: 

• Fire Fighting and Fire Extinguishing Using Portable Equipment  
• The Use of Breathing Apparatus   
• Acting as a Member of a Fire Fighting Party  

Personal Safety & Social Responsibility – Friday pm

This element of the training provides all sea-going personnel with a basic introduction to safety procedures and accident prevention, and familiarises them with the employment conditions and working environment on board merchant vessels. Assessment is by direct observation, oral and written questioning and simulated scenarios. The following topics are covered:

• Complying with Emergency Procedures  
• Prevention of Marine Pollution  
• Observing Safer Working Practices  
• Understanding the Chain of Command and Orders  
• Contributing to Effective Human Relationships on Board Ship