The yachting industry offers exciting career opportunities for those with a passion for the sea. If you dream of working as a deckhand on a yacht, the Efficient Deck Hand (EDH) course is an essential step towards achieving your goals.
This comprehensive training program equips aspiring deckhands with the fundamental skills and knowledge required for safe and efficient operations on board. In this article, we will explore the EDH course in detail, covering its curriculum, eligibility criteria, and the benefits it offers to those seeking a rewarding career in the yachting industry.
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What is the Efficient Deck Hand (EDH) Course?
The Efficient Deck Hand (EDH) course is an MCA-approved training program designed to provide aspiring deckhands with a solid foundation in seamanship, safety, and operational procedures. The course focuses on practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to perform various deckhand duties effectively. It covers a wide range of topics, including ropework, cargo handling, safety regulations, and watchkeeping.
The EDH course is a prerequisite for those aspiring to obtain higher-level certifications, such as the Officer of the Watch (OOW) certificate. As of January 2017, an EDH certificate must be obtained at least 18 months before receiving the OOW Certificate of Competency. It is also highly recommended for all deck crew members, even those not pursuing further qualifications, as it enhances their competence and employability within the industry.
Why Take the EDH Course?
The EDH course offers numerous benefits to aspiring deckhands, making it a valuable investment for those seeking a successful career in the yachting industry. Some of the key reasons to take the EDH course include:
- Enhanced Safety Awareness: The course emphasises safety procedures and best practices, equipping deckhands with the knowledge and skills to work safely on board and minimise risks to themselves and others.
- Improved Employability: The EDH certificate is widely recognised in the yachting industry and demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and competence. It enhances a deckhand’s employability and can open doors to a wider range of job opportunities.
- Career Progression: The EDH course is a prerequisite for higher-level certifications, such as the OOW certificate. Completing the EDH course lays the foundation for career advancement and allows deckhands to progress to more senior roles where leadership and instruction is required.
- Practical Skills Development: The course focuses on practical skills development, providing hands-on experience in various deck operations. This practical training enhances a deckhand’s confidence and ability to perform their duties effectively.
- Increased Earning Potential: Qualified and competent deckhands are in high demand in the yachting industry. The EDH certificate can lead to increased earning potential and better career prospects.
For example, consider the case of Sarah, a young woman who dreamed of working on yachts. After completing her EDH course, she quickly secured a position as a deckhand on a luxury charter yacht in the Mediterranean. The skills and knowledge she gained during the course proved invaluable in her daily tasks, from handling mooring lines to assisting with guest water sports activities.
Sarah’s confidence grew with each successful charter, and she soon earned a reputation as a reliable and capable crew member. Within two years, she was promoted to lead deckhand, with increased responsibilities and a significant pay raise. Sarah’s story highlights how the EDH course can be a stepping stone to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career in the yachting industry.
Who Can Take the EDH Course?
At South West Maritime Academy, we’ve broadened the entry requirements for the Efficient Deck Hand (EDH) course to better serve the yacht, workboat, and fishing industries. You can now access the course and examination with:
- MCA Yachtmaster Offshore certificates and shorebased course.
- Yacht rating with a minimum of 6 months sea service and either a steering certificate or Navigational Watch Rating certificate.
- Fishing Class 2 CoC or the Seafish 5-day watchkeeping course, specific to fishing vessels under 16.5 meters.
- Boat Masters’ Licence Tier 1 Level 2 certifications.
- Tug rating, requiring at least 6 months of sea time (which can include categorised waters) and a steering certificate or Navigational Watch Rating certificate.
Before the EDH certificate can be issued, a minimum of 6 months of sea service on vessels exceeding 15 meters is mandatory. “Vessels” include yachts, fishing vessels, tugs, workboats, and Royal Navy vessels.
What Does the EDH Course Cover?
South West Maritime Academy’s Efficient Deck Hand (EDH) course is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in a maritime environment and is packed with essential knowledge and hands-on experience that will prepare you for a successful career at sea. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of ship operations.
Nautical Knowledge
You’ll begin by building a strong foundation in Nautical Knowledge. This includes understanding common nautical terminology, identifying various ship parts, and learning the proper use of flags. You’ll also learn how to report bearings, understand helm orders, and effectively communicate with the officer of the watch. Crucial safety procedures are emphasised, including watch-keeping duties, lifesaving, and fire-fighting appliance operation, ensuring you know how to respond in emergency situations.
Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seamen
The “Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seamen” module is a vital component of maritime safety training, fostering a proactive safety culture by teaching seafarers how to conduct thorough risk assessments, understand and implement permit-to-work systems, and identify potential hazards on deck, all while emphasizing practical application through realistic scenarios and simulations; this comprehensive approach ensures participants develop the skills to prioritise safety, contribute to continuous improvement, and create a safer working environment where every individual takes responsibility for their well-being and that of their colleagues.
Shipboard Maintenance
Moving beyond theory, the course delves into Shipboard Maintenance. You’ll gain practical skills in general ship maintenance, including painting, lubrication, and cleaning. You’ll learn surface preparation techniques, safe handling of materials, and the proper use of hand and power tools, all while adhering to manufacturer’s safety guidelines and shipboard instructions. A vital component of modern seamanship is environmental responsibility. Therefore, you’ll also acquire a basic understanding of marine environmental issues, including pollution prevention, anti-pollution equipment operation, and approved disposal methods for marine pollutants.
Rope Work, Rigging, Splicing & Whipping
The practical aspect of the EDH course, Practical Work Testing, is designed to solidify your theoretical knowledge through hands-on experience. You’ll become proficient in Bends and Hitches, mastering a range of essential knots for various maritime tasks. Furthermore, you’ll learn Splicing and Whipping, gaining the ability to repair and maintain ropes and wires. Rope Work and Rigging will teach you the proper care and storage of ropes, cables, and chains, as well as the techniques for rigging stages, ladders, and derricks. You’ll also learn how to secure the deck for heavy weather and rig hydrostatic release units.
Mooring, Anchoring & Cargo Work
Mooring and Anchoring operations are critical skills for any deck hand. You’ll develop a thorough understanding of mooring line functions, safe handling procedures, and the sequence of events for making fast and letting go. In anchoring, you’ll learn how to operate a windlass, understand anchor usage in emergencies, and properly stow chain cables. Finally, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of Cargo Work. This includes learning about cargo gear, safe handling and stowage of various cargo types, including hazardous materials, and understanding basic signals for equipment operation. You’ll also learn about the capacities and safe working loads of mooring and cargo equipment, ensuring you can contribute to safe and efficient cargo operations.
Conclusion
The Efficient Deck Hand (EDH) course is a comprehensive training program that provides aspiring deckhands with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic seamanship to safety regulations, and is a prerequisite for those seeking higher-level certifications. By completing the EDH course, aspiring deckhands demonstrate their commitment to professionalism, enhance their employability, and lay the foundation for a successful and rewarding career in the yachting industry.
The EDH course not only equips you with the necessary skills to perform your duties effectively but also opens doors to career advancement and increased earning potential. If you are passionate about the sea and dream of working on yachts, the EDH course is a crucial step towards achieving your goals.
