Certificate validity: 5 Years

Prerequisites: None. Participants must be aged 18 or over.

Qualification: MCA Approved 1 Day Fire Fighting Certificate

Enables you to: Work on vessels up to 24m (Small Commercial Vessels, Workboats, Pilot Boats) and meet Boatmasters’ Licence requirements.

Duration: 1 Day (0900hrs – 1700hrs)

Cost: £175.00 inc vat (Please note all prices include vat @20%)

Location: South West Maritime Academy, Cromhall Quarry, Cromhall, South Gloucestershire, GL12 8AA

MCA_Training_approved

Essential fire safety training for crew on small commercial vessels. Fully compliant with the Boatmasters’ Licence (BML) and the new Workboat Code Edition 3.

What is the MCA Approved 1 Day Fire Fighting course and who is it for?

This 1-day course is designed to provide crew members with the essential knowledge and practical skills to prevent, combat, and extinguish fires on board small vessels. It is the appropriate level of training for vessels primarily using fire extinguishers and fixed engine room systems, rather than breathing apparatus.

This qualification is mandatory for many crew members working on small commercial vessels (under 24m), including workboats and pilot boats. It is specifically designed to meet the regulatory requirements for:

  • The Boatmasters’ Licence (BML): Required for masters and crew operating on inland waterways and limited coastal areas.
  • The Workboat Code Edition 3: Ensuring compliance for all crew on vessels over 15m, and at least one crew member on vessels up to 15m.
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This course contains some exercises that are physically demanding. Any candidate unsure of their fitness for such activities should consult their doctor.

MCA Accepted Equivalent to BML Approved Ancillary Safety Training

If the 1-Day Fire Fighting course is unavailable, the full Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW A-VI/1-2) module is accepted by the MCA as a valid alternative for the purpose of issuing a Boatmasters’ Licence.

This higher-level STCW qualification is also available at South West Maritime Academy and provides a more in-depth level of training, suitable for those who may wish to work on larger commercial vessels in the future.

Course Content

The course combines classroom theory with hands-on practical experience in our dedicated fire training facility. Led by experienced instructors, you will learn how to handle real fire situations safely and effectively using the equipment commonly found on smaller vessels.

The syllabus covers:

  • Theory of Combustion: Understanding the fire triangle and how fires spread.
  • Fire Classification: Identifying Class A, B, C, and D fires and selecting the correct extinguisher.
  • Extinguishing Methods: Practical use of water, dry powder, foam, CO2, and fire blankets.
  • Fire Prevention & Isolation: Actions to isolate fuel, gas, and electrical systems to reduce fire risk.
  • Engine Room Fires: Specific procedures for fighting engine space fires.
  • Onboard Procedures: Location of equipment and emergency response planning.

PPE for the practical sessions is supplied as required by us.

Contact us

Please contact us if you require any further information about this course or wish to book on behalf of a company:

Telephone: 01454 260130
Email: info@southwestmaritimeacademy.com

Normal office hours are (UK time):
Monday  – Friday: 08.30 – 17.00

Please be aware that online bookings will be confirmed with course joining information within one working day of the booking being made. Confirmation of payment will be received by email.

There is a wide range of local accommodation, some of which are within walking distance of the training centre to suit everyone’s budget. For a list of local accommodation please click here.

Please click here for a list of local accommodation