Strengthening Maritime Safety: Essential Skills for Safeguarding Seafarers and Ships  

As global commerce continues to expand, the role of cargo ships in international trade becomes increasingly critical. These vessels form the backbone of global trade, as e-commerce continues to grow and amplify the demand for cargo shipping, with significant contributions to economic activities and job creation worldwide. However, the complex and extensive operations of cargo ships also mean that there is a myriad of things that can go wrong, making the implementation of stringent safety measures and standards indispensable. Effective safety training and adherence to rigorous safety protocols are crucial in mitigating these risks and protecting the lives of those working at sea.

Increased Fire Emergency at Sea  

Fire emergencies and safety are critical concerns in the maritime industry, particularly on cargo ships where fires can have devastating consequences. Recent data indicates that cargo fires have increased significantly, with factors such as misdeclared hazardous materials and the increasing carriage of lithium-ion batteries posing substantial risks. Lithium-ion batteries, used in various goods from electric vehicles to consumer electronics, can cause fires through thermal runaway, a phenomenon where the battery rapidly heats up and potentially explodes if damaged or improperly handled. These fires are difficult to extinguish and can reignite days later, posing a significant challenge for firefighting efforts on board ships. Moreover, the large and open design of carrier vessels exacerbates the spread of fires due to the ample oxygen supply and lack of internal bulkheads, making early detection and adequate firefighting capabilities essential.

Ways To Minimize the Risk of Fire Emergencies  

The safety of seafarers during such emergencies is paramount. Fires on cargo ships threaten the structural integrity of the vessel and the lives of crew members, necessitating comprehensive safety protocols and training. There is an imminent need for better fire protection systems, improved cargo handling practices, and rigorous training for crew members in managing fires. Effective measures, including the thorough inspection of cargo, strict adherence to packing regulations, and the implementation of advanced fire detection technologies, are crucial in mitigating these risks. Ensuring the safety and well-being of seafarers requires the involvement of stringent regulatory compliance, continuous training, and the adoption of innovative safety solutions. 

Minimizing the risk of a fire emergency on the vessel starts with rigorous training that equips seafarers with the necessary skills not only to manage, but to prevent accidents leading to injuries or fatalities on board. Until 1978, there was no international standard for seafarer's safety training, in which year the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) was established. Four years later in 1984 it was implemented worldwide and aims to keep seafarers safe ever since. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) keeps updating it ever since to meet the changing requirements of the working environment.

Holistic Training for Seafarers Safety 

Before beginning any job on a ship, completing an STCW course is typically mandatory. This basic training is essential for equipping seafarers with the knowledge, understanding, and practical skills necessary to perform their roles effectively and safely. The STCW Basic Safety Training is a comprehensive approach that ensures that all crew members are fully prepared to handle emergencies and contribute to a safe and productive working environment at sea. 

The STCW Basic Safety Training course offered by RelyOn covers all required elements of safety training, delivered through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on practical modules. Each element is assessed by our highly qualified assessors to ensure that participants meet the competence requirements outlined in the STCW code.

How is the STCW Training Built Up? 

The STCW course equips seafarers with crucial skills for safety and efficiency at sea. It covers key components, including Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities, which emphasizes safety protocols, crew responsibilities, teamwork, and communication on board. The Basic Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting component, taught by professional firefighters, prepares participants to manage fire risks and respond effectively to emergencies.  

Personal Survival Techniques teach essential survival skills, such as using life jackets and rafts during ship abandonment. Finally, Elementary First Aid covers basic life-saving skills to ensure prompt and effective response in medical emergencies. Completing the STCW course ensures that seafarers are well-prepared to handle emergencies, promoting a safer maritime environment. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of both the crew and the environment, making the STCW course an indispensable part of maritime training.

Embrace Digital Learning & Start your STCW Journey from Home 

Beyond the traditional training option that takes place solely in a physical setting, RelyOn offers the STCW Basic Safety Training in a blended learning format as well. The blended learning approach allows students to learn the theoretical part of the training and prepare for the exercises at home before attending the on-site element of the course. Blended learning combines classical classroom education with online elements, offering a seamless flow of learning. This not only allows for a more flexible training schedule by minimizing the time needed to be spent in the training center but also offers a unique, modern and highly effective learning environment for the course takers. Blended learning lets delegates focus on the physical aspects of their training on-site, directing attention to where it needs to be.

Refresh Your Knowledge with RelyOn 

Beyond the Basic Safety Training, RelyOn offers courses for experienced seafarers seeking revalidation. The Basic Safety Course Updating is designed to refresh the already existing knowledge and dives deeper into topics such as survival at sea in the event of ship abandonment, classification of fires and appropriate extinguishing agents, location aids, rescue and more.   

Whether you are looking for courses designed for beginners or want to refresh existing knowledge, RelyOn offers a wide variety of options within its portfolio to choose from. Reach out to your local provider or browse through our shop for more information!