STCW Basic Safety Training (BST)

Description

The STCW Basic Safety Training Course, also known as STCW95 or STCW2010, is a 5-day program that includes four core modules and the now mandatory Proficiency in Security Awareness. This course is essential for all seafarers and provides fundamental knowledge and skills for safety at sea. More details can be found in the UK's Merchant Shipping Notice (MSN) 1865.

STCW Basic Safety Training Core Modules

• Personal Survival Techniques (STCW A-VI/1-1): This module covers essential prevention and survival skills. It includes both theoretical and practical sessions on topics such as: causes of distress, knowledge and use of survival equipment, launching and recovering life rafts, personal survival skills and preparation and working with search and rescue organisations.

• Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention (STCW A-VI/1-2): This module teaches the necessary precautions to minimize fire risks on board, how fires start, and how to use initial means of extinguishing them. Practical training includes using firefighting equipment and breathing apparatus for fire fighting and rescue.

• Elementary First Aid (STCW A-VI/1-3): This is a combination of theory and practical training in basic first aid and life-saving skills. It is intended for all seafarers who need to perform elementary first aid on a vessel and covers responses to common medical emergencies.

• Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW A-VI/1-4): This classroom-based module provides basic induction training in safety procedures and accident prevention, and it familiarizes new seafarers with working conditions and employment aboard a ship.

• Proficiency in Security Awareness (STCW A-VI/6-1): This is a mandatory course for all seafarers on ships that must comply with the ISPS code. It provides the necessary knowledge and understanding for personnel who do not have designated security duties.

Optional Add-Ons and Additional Training

You can supplement the Basic Safety Training with the following courses:

• Crowd Management: Required for many passenger vessel crew members. This course can be integrated into the 5-day Basic Safety Training.

• Passenger Safety: An ideal add-on for those seeking a career on ferry vessels. This can also be integrated into the Basic Safety Training package.

• Crisis Management and Human Behaviour: A standalone course required by some passenger vessels. It must be taken separately from the Basic Safety Training.

• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD): A one-day course for crew members with specific security duties. This course builds on the basics covered in the Proficiency in Security Awareness module.

The modules listed within the course are a requirement for commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Offshore or Ocean that are working towards the MCA STCW Master Yacht 200 Tonnes (OOW 500 tonnes). And are also required by Masters and deck officers in commercial vessels over 24m in length and less than 500GT.

In addition to the STCW Basic Safety Training, you’ll need an ENG1 medical certificate. This is a medical examination approved by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and must be conducted by an MCA-approved doctor. You can find a local approved doctor on the .gov.uk website here.

Prerequisites

None. This is an entry level course, required for all persons wishing to work aboard seafaring vessels. Participants must be aged 16 or over.

Certification and Assessment

Upon successful completion of the STCW Basic Safety Training course (STCW95 & STCW 2010), candidates will receive Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) approved certificates, valid for five years in the following:

• Personal Survival Techniques (STCW A-VI/1-1
• Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW A-VI/1-2)
• Elementary First Aid (STCW A-VI/1-3)
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (STCW A-VI/1-4)
• Proficiency in Security Awareness (STCW A-VI/6-1)