On board training is required to enable each seafarer:
– To perform his job in full compliance with requirements of the Safety Management System, and,
– To receive an adequate understanding of relevant rules, regulation codes and guidelines.
The training must emphasise the preventative and management aspects of safety, health, environmental protection and damage prevention, not simply the reactive aspects (e.g. spill mitigation, first aid, fire fighting,
etc.). Training for doing a job safely is not to be separated from doing it efficiently and to an acceptable level of quality.
Whilst it is appreciated that all seafarers appointed to a vessel should be adequately trained to a standard their rank demands, additional onboard task training will not only benefit the seafarer but also the whole working of the ship.
It is the Master’s responsibility to identify the onboard training needs for each Deck Officer, and the Chief Engineer for each Engineer Officer. Onboard training during jobatsea offshore is to be undertaken by the appropriate Department heads or their appointed superiors on a monthly basis.
Onboard training is to be supplemented by using visual aids, such as videos, manuals and operating instructions, or direct supervision by a superior. The onboard training is not to adversely affect the normal operation of the ship.
The Master must, with the co-operation of his Senior Officers, provide every assistance and encouragement to Junior Staff and ratings in their studies and training in respect of both professional qualifications and the development of skills and experience.
Onboard training by the ship’s senior officers will also be supplemented by training from Ship Manager Safety Superintendents, who will travel with a vessel for a specific period of time and undertake a selection of training courses.
Each vessel is supplied with a Training Record Book, where records of on board familiarisation and training are to be retained.
The purpose of the book is to ensure that all the records of training, as required by STCW ’95 (as amended) are retained in one place.
It is the responsibility of the Master to ensure records are maintained and that training is undertaken.
Master’s and other senior officers must familiarise themselves with the contents of the Training Record Book, especially the Schedule of Drills, and ensure all personnel receive the appropriate training for their rank.
Officers are responsible for their development and ongoing preparation to undertake the duties of the next higher rank. To assist in this development, the officer should be guided by the relevant Officer Promotion matrix. Officers should coordinate their development with their Senior Officers and in line with vessel operations.
Although responsibility for personal development lies with the Officer, Senior Officers are required to provide every assistance and guidance to support and encourage the officer. When an Officer Promotion Matrix is completed, the Officer should arrange for it to be forwarded to the Crewing Department, keeping a copy for himself.
